2021 Neustadt Lit Fest Videos
The NSK Neustadt Prize for Children’s Literature, initiated in 2003, aims to enhance the quality of children’s literature by promoting writing that contributes to the quality of their lives. Laureates receive a check for $35,000, a silver medallion, and a certificate at a public ceremony at the University of Oklahoma and are featured in a subsequent issue of World Literature Today.
Welcome and Overview, plus a Roundtable Conversation on Diversity in YA Lit
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Introduction, welcome, and overview of the three-day festival lineup, with welcome remarks by University of Oklahoma President Joseph Harroz Jr., followed by Laura Bolf-Beliveau, Annawake Grubbs, and Anastasia Wickham discussing diversity in YA lit.
Panel on the Work of Cynthia Leitich Smith
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Monica Brown, Kimberly Gail Wieser, and Meredith Bigheart-Seagraves discussed Smith’s work, followed by audience Q&A.
Readings by the 2022 Neustadt Prize Jury
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Jurors read from their work, and signed books were given away to attendees.
Neustadt Prize Announcement and Conversation with Cynthia Leitich Smith
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Announcement of the winner of the 2022 Neustadt International Prize for Literature, followed by Cynthia Leitich Smith in conversation with Heather Shotton.
The 2021 NSK Prize Keynote by Cynthia Leitich Smith
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Cynthia Leitich Smith (Muscogee) delivered “Decolonizing Neverland: How Native Voices Are Reimagining Books for Young Readers.”
NSK Prize Award and Acceptance Speech, and Closing – Cynthia Leitich Smith
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With tributes from Joy Harjo and Monica Brown, Cynthia Leitich Smith received the 2021 NSK Prize, followed by the lit fest closing ceremony.
