Awards and Recognitions:
  • 2026 ALA Schneider Family Book Award Winner
  • 2026 Josette Frank Award Winner
  • A National Council for Social Studies (NCSS) Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People
  • A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
  • 2026 NY Historical Children's Book Prize Finalist
  • 2025 Writer's Digest All Ages Read​
  • The Children's Book Review Best Books of the Year
  • Bank Street College of Education Best Children's Books of the Year

State Reading Lists:
*California Department of Education, 2026 
*Georgia Tome Book Award, 2026
*Kentucky Bluegrass Award Nominee, 2026
*New Mexico Battle of the Books, 2026
*Tennessee Volunteer State Book Awards, 2026
*Texas Lone Star Reading List, 2026
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"Colman's writing is accessible and flawlessly incorporates historical details into the narrative."— Booklist

"Poignant and compassionate... Readers will be swept into the dusty setting of 1935 and be encouraged to grow in their understanding and empathy for people of the past."— School Library Journal

"This book has sadness and loss, but also love and hope. Readers who are interested in historical fiction and stories about relationships will enjoy Where Only Storms Grow." - Time for Kids, Kid Reporter Review

"...[A] powerful middle-grade novel that shines a light on overlooked histories of the Dust Bowl while offering a timeless message of perseverance. Through vivid storytelling and deep empathy, Colman shows how strength can emerge quietly, guiding us through hardship toward brighter days." - The Children's Book Review

Alyssa's work has been recognized by...