YOUNG GRANDMASTER CHOI WINS THE 2026 ZELDA AWARD

We’re proud to share that Young Grandmaster Choi Chapter #1 has won the 2026 Zelda Award for Best Children’s Graphic Novel.

The Zelda Awards celebrate excellence in comics and are named after Zelda “Jackie” Ormes, the first Black female cartoonist and a pioneer in the field.

This milestone reflects the heart of the series. From the beginning, the goal has been to center girls, especially Black girls, in stories of strength, resilience, and self-discovery.

The story follows Rayven, a young girl who, after the loss of her parents, relocates to South Korea and must navigate a new culture while processing grief. Once there, she is bullied for being different, from her hair to her skin color. Through martial arts, she begins to build confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging. Rooted in social-emotional learning, the series supports conversations around identity, bullying, and resilience, and is currently being piloted in select schools across the country.

This award is a reminder that stories rooted in authenticity and purpose matter. It belongs to the readers, educators, librarians, and supporters who have championed this work.

Watch the Zelda Awards HERE.