Coordinating council for Women in History, CCWH-Prelinger Scholarship, first national award of $10,000, for contribution to women in history, emphasizing issues of diversity, May 1998.

Blue Cobra International Book Award, international money prize for Journey of the Sparrows.

Jane Addams Book Award, for contribution to peace and social justice for Journey of the Sparrows, November 1992.

Hungry Mind Review Young Adult Book of Distinction Award for Journey of the Sparrows, 1992.

Judy Goddard/ Libraries Ltd, Arizona Young Adult Author Award, 2004.