Award-Winning Children’s Book Inspires Young Readers to Embrace Activism and Stand Up for Justice
Jennifer Maruno has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Horace Mann Upstander Award for her inspiring children’s book, Momma’s Going to March, published by House of Anansi Press. This esteemed award recognizes literature that empowers young readers to take action against injustice and become advocates for positive change.
The Horace Mann Upstander Award, established by the Education Department at Antioch University’s Los Angeles campus in 2007, recognizes outstanding children’s literature that exemplifies social action and inspires young readers to become agents of change. An Upstander is someone who takes a courageous stand and acts on behalf of themselves and others, embodying the spirit of advocacy and justice.
Momma’s Going to March follows several children as they join their mothers in peaceful protests advocating for critical issues such as environmental protection, freedom, equality, peace, and clean water. Through vibrant storytelling, the book highlights the power of activism and demonstrates that advocacy can be both meaningful and joyful.
Jennifer Maruno, a retired elementary school principal, is a celebrated author of seven novels for middle-grade and young adult readers, as well as two picture books. Her latest picture book, While You Sleep, published in 2022 by Pajama Press, earned starred reviews from Kirkus and Quill & Quire. She currently resides in Burlington, Ontario.
“The first Women’s March in January 2017 not only led to annual women’s marches around the world but also became the inspiration for Momma’s Going to March,” said Maruno. “This book celebrates all progressive women of all ages in their vision of racial and social justice and protection of the environment.”
Illustrated by Vivian Rosas, a Toronto-based queer, Mestizx/Latinx multidisciplinary artist, Momma’s Going to March brings themes of feminism, empowerment, and diversity to life. Rosas, known for her inclusive and socially conscious artwork, expressed her excitement about the project:
“It’s an honor to be chosen for this award,” said Rosas. “It felt so great to be able to work on this book that encourages young readers to learn about activism and standing up for what you believe in.”
On Thursday, May 29, 2025, as part of the presentation of the award, Maruno virtually visited three elementary classrooms, reading from her book and talking about why she wrote it.
