Smith Publicity is excited to share that after an extensive submission review process, our judges have selected Kristen Amani Curry’s essay about Well-Read Black Girl as the winner of the 2025 Smith Publicity Book Marketing Scholarship!
Each year, Smith Publicity holds a scholarship contest for high school seniors and undergraduate students, in an effort to give back and prioritize the next generation of authors. For the scholarship’s 13th year, we chose the following prompt: What media outlet, influencer, social media personality, or blog do you turn to for book recommendations? Why? What makes them your go to resource?
Our panel of judges thoroughly enjoyed reading this year’s submissions, learning more about young people’s consumption of book-related media. We thank each applicant for their participation, and appreciate the time and effort spent in crafting these essays. While several essays were both persuasive and beautifully written, when reading Kristen’s essays, our judges were incredibly moved by her authenticity and eloquence. We would like to congratulate Kristen on this accomplishment, and thank her for sharing such a thoughtful essay with us! Keep reading to learn more about our winner.
And for those interested in applying next year, stay tuned for an announcement about the application process in early 2026, or subscribe to our newsletter here.
A Q&A With Our Winner:
Kristen Amani Curry is a member of the graduating class of 2027 at Morgan State University, majoring in Political Science. She wrote her essay about using Well-Read Black Girl as her preferred source for book recommendations.
What are you studying? Why did you choose this major?
I’m currently majoring in Political Science. I chose Political Science because I’m passionate about justice and advocacy, and I see policy and law as powerful tools for creating systemic change.
What is your favorite book? Favorite author?
My favorite book is Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde. Her work continuously challenges me to think critically and live authentically. As for my favorite author, I’d say it’s a tie between Lorde and Toni Morrison — both have redefined what storytelling means to me.
As a member of the graduating class of 2027, what are your plans and dreams after college?
After graduation, I plan to attend law school with the ultimate goal of becoming a civil rights attorney. I hope to open my firm one day, focused on defending individuals who have been wrongfully accused, particularly Black Americans who are disproportionately impacted by the criminal justice system.
You wrote an incredibly persuasive essay about why Well-Read Black Girl is such an essential resource that allows people to explore new literature and creates a sense of community. Can you share some thoughts on why these things are so important in today’s world?
In today’s world, where so many voices are still marginalized or misunderstood, communities like Well-Read Black Girl are essential. They don’t just celebrate Black literature—they validate identity, foster dialogue, and make space for healing. Books can build bridges, and when readers come together around stories that reflect their truths, it nurtures both empathy and empowerment. That’s the kind of world I want to help shape—one where everyone feels seen and heard.
Smith Publicity:
Book Marketing Leaders
The annual book marketing scholarship is part of our service to the industry, as well as students we hope discover the rewarding and interesting fields of book marketing and publishing, and the power of persuasive writing for careers and life. We provide book PR and marketing insight through a unique webinar series that’s available to attend free of charge. Our website and blog have extensive information about how to successfully promote books in every genre. We work with many major publishers, small presses, and hybrid publishers, as well the highest quality self-published books. Smith Publicity pioneered many innovative and revolutionary book publicity strategies widely used today. Our experienced team of publicists also have expertise in author branding, personality cultivation, social media management, and many other services allied to book promotion.