Living Canon

Michael L. Printz Award 2023: Complete list of winners

The Michael L. Printz Award, one of the most prestigious honors in young adult literature, celebrated exceptional storytelling at its 2023 ceremony with Sabaa Tahir’s All My Rage taking home the top prize. Known for recognizing the most outstanding literary quality in books written for teens, the Printz Award has long served as a bellwether for which YA titles will define a generation of readers. Tahir’s win is particularly resonant given the novel’s exploration of identity, belonging, and the complexities of first-generation American life—themes that continue to dominate conversations in contemporary young adult fiction.

All My Rage stands out for its dual narrative structure and unflinching examination of teenage angst against the backdrop of Pakistani-American family dynamics. The novel’s recognition by the American Library Association’s Printz committee underscores a broader trend in recent years toward celebrating YA literature that centers marginalized voices and tackles serious social issues with nuance and literary sophistication. Tahir, already an acclaimed author in the field, adds another significant achievement to her growing legacy in young adult literature.

Below you’ll find more details about this year’s honorees and what made them worthy of the Michael L. Printz Award’s recognition.

Young Adult