The Silva Award is an international competition created to support original, thoughtful, and imaginative picture books for children. Our goal is simple: to discover new voices, nurture creative talent, and contribute to the future of children’s literature.
The first edition of the Silva Award focuses on unpublished picture books for children aged 3–6. Whether you’re an author, an illustrator, or both — if you have a story that deserves to be read, we’d love to see it.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open to anyone who:
• Is 18 years or older
• Submits a project in English
• Has a passion for picture books
What We’re Looking For
We’re accepting:
• Text-based picture books (fiction or nonfiction)
• Silent books (where the story is told entirely through illustration)
• Projects created by individuals or teams
All submissions must be unpublished and suitable for children aged 3 to 6.
What’s the Award?
There will be one winner, who will receive:
• 💵 2,000 USD
• ✍️ A publishing contract with Tudem Publishing Group
Key Dates
• Competition opens: October 2025
• Deadline: May 22, 2026
• Winner announced: October 2026
(Yes, you’ve got time. But no, we don’t recommend waiting until the last minute.)
About Us
The Silva Award is new — but we’re not new to discovering talent.
For over 23 years, Tudem Publishing Group has organized the Tudem Literature Awards, one of the most respected literary competitions in Turkey. It has helped introduce many of the country’s leading children’s and YA authors to readers.
With Silva, we’re opening the door wider — to connect with creators from around the world and support stories that resonate across borders.
Before You Submit
Be sure to read our Terms & Conditions carefully before submitting. They include important information about eligibility, format, and how to prepare your entry.
We’re Excited to Read Your Work
We believe picture books can open doors, plant seeds, and sometimes change the course of a day — or a life. If you’re carrying a story like that, we’d be happy to read it.
Make us laugh. Make us pause. Make us want to read it again. Whatever your story holds – we’re ready.