Authors, illustrators, oral storytellers and promoters of reading (individuals or organisations) are elegible for the award.

Nominations are made by approved nominating bodies, or by a member of the expert jury. Nominating bodies are chosen for their in-depth knowledge about children's and young adult literature either globally, or in a specific geographical or cultural context.

The nominating bodies and nominees toghether represent more than 60 countries world-wide, and large number of languages and artistic traditions.

The award rewards lifetime achievements of the highest artistic quality and in the spirit of Astrid Lindgren with a focus on a profound respect for democratic values and human rights. The award is not given posthumously, but to still active artists and authors.

Taken together, this makes the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award list of nominees a good starting point for those who want to know more about contemporary children's and young adult literature.