Jessica Walker’s debut novel, The Secret Astronomers, has been named the 2026 Barnes & Noble Best YA Book, per parade.com.
The award was announced May 21, 2026, following the book’s November 2025 release by Viking.
The novel topped contenders including A Stage Set for Villains by Shannon J. Spann and Thorn Season by Kiera Azar. Barnes & Noble cited the book’s originality and innovative design in its selection.
The Secret Astronomers follows two students who communicate through diary entries written in a 19th-century astrophysics textbook found in a school library. Copernicus, a transfer student seeking answers about her mother’s death, leaves notes in the margins. Kepler, who hopes to attend college despite financial barriers, discovers the messages and responds. Their anonymous correspondence uncovers personal and long-buried secrets.
The story is told through mixed-media elements, including hand-drawn illustrations, sticky notes and marginal annotations. Pages from an actual historical astrophysics textbook are reproduced throughout the book.
Walker said the novel explores communication barriers, noting that technology enables contact across vast distances yet people struggle to speak with those of differing views. Set in Appalachia, the book draws on the author’s experience to portray the region with authenticity.
Tamar Brazis, Vice President and Publisher of Viking Children’s Books, said Viking is “proud that Barnes & Noble has recognised The Secret Astronomers with such an honour.” She added that Walker’s book “has attracted a new audience of readers with its innovative approach to art, design and storytelling.”
The Barnes & Noble Best YA Book is an annual award highlighting standout titles in young adult fiction.
Past winners have seen significant increases in readership and national sales.
•Featured image courtesy of Viking
