2009

University of Southern Mississippi Medallion for her lifelong contributions to the field of children's literature.

2004

National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters

2000

Library of Congress Living Legends Award

1996

Margaret Alexander Edwards Award

1988

South Australian Youth Media Award for Best Author

1986

Civil Liberties Award, Atlanta Civil Liberties Union

1986

John Roxk Award, Center for Population Options, Los Angeles

1983

Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award

1984

Carl Sandberg Freedom to Read Award, Chicago Public Library