Writer Beatriz Giménez de Ory has been announced as the winner of the XXX Cervantes Chico Award for Children's and Youth Literature 2026. The jury's decision, made public in Alcalá de Henares on July 23, 2026, recognizes the career of the author, who holds a degree in Hispanic Philology and has worked as a teacher of Language and Literature.
Giménez de Ory, who began writing with adult short stories before dedicating herself exclusively to children's literature, has collaborated on various pedagogical and literary projects. Her work has previously received accolades such as the Fundación Cuatrogatos Award, The White Ravens Award, the National Award for Children's and Youth Literature, and the Edebé Award for Children's Literature. Among her most notable works are Los versos del libro tonto, Bululú, and Para ser pirata.
The jury also presented the “Recognition for Ibero-American Author of Children's and Youth Literature Cervantes Chico” to Argentine writer Isol Misenta, known for her ability to tell stories through the interplay of images and texts. Her work has garnered international distinctions, including awards from the Association of Children's and Youth Literature of Argentina and the Caracas Book Bank, as well as the Golden Apple Award and the prestigious Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.
In the category of awards for the educational community, the ‘Recognition for Student Cervantes Chico 2026’ has been given to Blanca León Mata, from CC Sta. María de la Providencia, for her "disposition towards work and the attitude she shows with peers and teachers," highlighting her "critical thinking" and "wonderful smile".
The award for “Recognition for Teacher Cervantes Chico 2026” has been granted to Susana Matas Gómez and Eva María Sánchez Alonso, from CEIP Cristóbal Colón, "for their outstanding and committed work in promoting reading through the integral transformation of the school library." Additionally, an honorable mention was awarded to Rosa María Arce Pérez, from CEIPSO Ernest Hemingway, for her "involvement, commitment, and dedication" to the center's library and reading plan.
Finally, the “Recognition for Mothers, Fathers, and Guardians Cervantes Chico 2026” was presented to the Association of Mothers and Fathers of Students of CEIP Ciudad del Aire, "in recognition of their dynamic work, educational co-responsibility, and essential role in the cultural life of the school".
The jury for this edition comprised various figures from the fields of education and culture, including the Councilor Delegate for Education, University, and Sports, Lola López, and the Councilor for Culture and Equality, Santiago Alonso, among other institutional representatives and previous award winners.
