Joan Kelly Memorial Prize
Established in 1984 and named in memory of Joan Kelly (1928–82), this prize is awarded annually for the book in women’s history and/or feminist theory that best reflects the high intellectual and scholarly ideals exemplified by the life and work of Joan Kelly. The prize was established by the Coordinating Committee on Women in the Historical Profession and the Conference Group on Women’s History (now the Coordinating Council for Women in History), and is administered by the American Historical Association.
To be eligible for consideration, submissions shall be books in any chronological period, any geographical location, or in an area of feminist theory that incorporates a historical perspective. Books should demonstrate originality of research, creativity of insight, graceful stylistic presentation, analytical skills, and a recognition of the important role of sex and gender in the historical process. The inter-relationship between women and the historical process should be addressed. The current prize amount is $1,000. See the list of past recipients.
The general rules for submission are:
- Books with a copyright of 2023 are eligible for the 2024 award.
- Nomination submissions may be made by an author or by a publisher. Publishers may submit as many entries as they wish. Authors or publishers may submit the same book for multiple AHA prizes.
- Nominators must complete an online prize submission form for each book submitted.
- One copy of each entry must be sent to each committee member and clearly labeled “Kelly Prize Entry.” Print copies preferred unless otherwise indicated. If only e-copy is available, please contact review committee members beforehand to arrange submission format.
Please Note: Entries must be received by May 15, 2024, to be eligible for the 2024 competition. Entries will not be returned. Recipients will be announced on the AHA website in October 2024 and recognized during a ceremony at the January 2025 AHA annual meeting in New York.
For questions, please contact the Prize Administrator.
2023 Kelly Prize
Kerri K. Greenidge, Tufts University
The Grimkes: The Legacy of Slavery in an American Family (W.W. Norton)
In this sweeping, innovative, and highly original book, Kerri K. Greenidge reintroduces us to the Grimkes. Her impressive research draws attention to white and Black members of the family from the 18th to the 20th century. The family’s history illuminates the Black and white experience of both the abolition movement and Reconstruction. Her engaging and compelling account of the Grimkes shows how Black struggles for freedom and human dignity shaped a family and a nation.