Criteria for Selection of Titles for the Star of the North Award

Minnesota Youth Reading Awards’ purpose is to provide nominee titles that offer opportunities for Minnesota youth to see themselves and others in literary works, to make new connections, and to engage and enjoy the world of reading.

The following Criteria are also set on nominated titles:

1. All titles are classified as Picture Books (they may be fiction or nonfiction).
2. Title copyrights are from the previous 2 years.
3. Titles are in print and available to order.
4. List of nominees reflects variety in perspectives and genres.
5. Consideration made for Minnesota connections and Minnesota authors and illustrators.
6. Caldecott Award winning titles will not be considered.
7. Titles will be reviewed by at least one professional review source.  
8. If a title is part of a series, it will only be considered if it is able to stand alone without relying on familiarity with the other titles in the series.
9. Books based on movies or television shows are not eligible for nominations unless the book preceded the movie or television production.
10. Titles may not be a holiday book, a toy, a puzzle, a pop up book or formula fiction.
11. Nominated authors and illustrators must be alive at the time of nomination and living in North America.
12. Only one title per author or illustrator is allowed in the list of nominees.
13. Titles will be chosen with an audience of 5-8 year olds in mind.
14. Titles are quality, engaging picture books.