The purpose of the Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award is to recognize authentic portrayals of individuals with developmental disabilities in books for children and youth. 

The Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award recognizes authors, illustrators, and publishers of high quality fictional and biographical books for children and youth that authentically portray individuals with developmental disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, and Down syndrome.

The award is presented every even year. It is made possible through the dedicated work, creative insight, and funding from many individuals and organizations: the Council for Exceptional Children's Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities (DADD), Brigham Young University's McKay School of Education, the BYU Harold B. Lee Library, The Foundation for Enriching Families with Disabilities, and committee members and panelists. 

We express our appreciation to the authors, illustrators, and publishers of the eligible and award-winning books, Dolly Gray and her family, and individuals with developmental disabilities and their families worldwide.