September 25, 2026

Professor Perri Klass Named Recipient of the 2026 Literarian Award

The National Book Foundation has named Professor Perri Klass, MD, as the recipient of the 2026 Literarian Award for Outstanding Service to the American Literary Community. “Perri Klass’s lifetime of service as a pediatrician, educator, and provider of books to children and families will have a lasting impact on communities everywhere—reaffirming the importance of reading and storytelling as an integral part of early childhood,” said David Steinberger, Chair of the Board of Directors of the National Book Foundation.

Klass will be the 22nd recipient of the award, joining the likes of Maya Angelou, Roxane Gay and Paul Yamazaki.