January 2026 | LISLE, IL—InterVarsity Press (IVP) is thrilled to announce that three IVP Kids titles have received 2026 Independent Press Awards (IPA). The honored titles include Kaylee Prays for the Children of the World by Helen Lee, Abigail and the Waterfall by Sandra L. Richter, and Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World by Tara Hackney.
The Independent Press Awards recognizes the best books of the year published by small independent publishers. These awards are decided by experts from different roles within the book industry, and selected IPA Winners and Distinguished Favorites are based on overall excellence.
IVP Kids books received awards in the following categories:
Winner: Childrens–Religion Fiction
Kaylee Prays for the Children of the World: God Hears Every Prayer
Written by Helen Lee and beautifully illustrated by Shin Maeng, this book follows Kaylee and her grandfather, Halbi, as they read the morning newspaper. While reading, they look for ways to pray for the children of the world. Featuring a Korean American family, this is an inspiring story about faith, empathy, and the power of prayer.
“Kaylee’s desire to be aware of the world around her, and to empathize with the suffering of others, is a beautiful model for young readers. . . . Maeng’s appealing cartoon images highlight Kaylee’s earnestness, and the ‘Kim Family Prayer Map’ gives their prayer practice a well-drawn sense of practicality. Children from many disparate places affected by both tragedy and joy are shown, giving a sense of how big and diverse the world is. An affecting story that will resonate with the faithful.” – Kirkus Reviews
Kaylee Prays for the Children of the World is also a SOLA Network’s 2025 Asian American Book Awards winner and a recipient of a 2025 Moonbeam Children’s Book Award.
Distinguished Favorite: Childrens–Religion Fiction
Abigail and the Waterfall: Loving God’s Good Earth
Written by parent and university professor Sandra L. Richter and brought to life with illustrations by Michael Corsini, this story follows Abigail and her family as they hike through the lush landscapes of Appalachia. On their adventure, Abigail encounters fascinating animals, marvels at a big, beautiful waterfall, and learns about caring for creation. Abigail and the Waterfall is an invitation for families to discuss what the Bible says about caring for the environment, animals, and the beautiful world around us.
Sandra L. Richter (PhD, Harvard University) is the Robert H. Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies at Westmont College. She is best known in the church for The Epic of Eden: A Christian Entry into the Old Testament, the video courses that have grown from that project, and Stewards of Eden: What Scripture Says About the Environment and Why It Matters.
Distinguished Favorite: Childrens–Religion Nonfiction (Board Book)
Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World: Fresh Lyrics for a Beloved Song
With beautifully refreshed lyrics by Tara Hackney, this cherished classic song celebrates the perfect way God made and loves every child, everywhere. This delightful board book includes three new stanzas that reflect God’s inclusive love. The vibrant photographs showcase children from around the globe, creating a captivating reading experience.
“Three new verses encourage readers to reflect on the inclusivity of God’s love, delivering a Christian message that speaks back to the divisive politics that dominate today’s society. The volume is illustrated with real-life photographs of children of all shapes and sizes, all in different environments and from various backgrounds, but all beaming with the joy of being alive. The bold font and frequent repetition help keep the text accessible to even very young readers. . . Whether read/sung at home or in church, Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World is a fantastic introduction to the concept of diversity for preschoolers.” –The Children’s Book Review
For a complete list of IVP Kids award winners, visit ivpress.com/award-winners.
Contact: Anna Tjernstrom, atjernstrom@ivpress.com
