The Bluestem Book Award is an Illinois readers' choice award for children in grades 3–5. Named after Big Bluestem, the state prairie grass of Illinois, the award encourages young readers to explore a variety of books and vote for their favorite. A committee of educators and librarians selects a list of nominees each year, and students who read at least four of the books can participate in voting. The award is designed to promote reading for pleasure and to expose kids to high-quality literature across different genres.