The SB&F Prizes aim to encourage the reading, writing and publishing of quality science books. The Prizes began in 2005 by looking back on 40 years of outstanding science books and honoring six authors for their distinguished and lasting contribution to science literature. Beginning in 2006 and beyond, the Prizes honor recently published, individual books.

A judging panel made up of scientists, experts in the field of science literature, librarians, and AAAS staff assess the entries based on a set of criteria.

AAAS staff share the first time they asked questions about the world, and started to think like a scientist or an engineer.