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Olympia Author Wins 2025 Washington State Book Award

Olympia, WALocal News

K. A. Cobell won the 2025 Washington State Book Award for Young Adult Literature for her debut novel, "Looking for Smoke," which combines mystery with cultural authenticity. The award, part of the 59th Washington State Book Awards, highlights exceptional literature across multiple genres. Cobell, a 34-year-old author and member of the Blackfeet Nation, began writing seriously in the last five years after rekindling her love for fiction.

Her novel features Mara, who becomes a suspect in a murder investigation following a Giveaway ceremony for a missing girl on the Blackfeet reservation. Cobell aims to authentically portray Blackfeet culture and provide representation for readers who may not be familiar with reservation life. She emphasizes the theme of potential in young adult fiction, reflecting the significant phase of self-discovery. "Looking for Smoke" has received 14 awards, including the Publishers Weekly Best Book and an Edgar Allan Poe Award Nomination. Cobell expresses pride in having her unique characters recognized and seen by a wider audience.

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