The mission of the National Book Foundation and the National Book Awards is to celebrate the best of American Literature, to expand its audience, and to enhance the cultural value of good writing in America. Judges consider only books written by American citizens and published in the United States between December 1 of the previous year and November 30 of the current year. Only publishers can nominate books for the National Book Award, although panel chairs can request books publishers have not nominated.
Established in 1950. Sponsored by the National Book Foundation.