Awarded by the International Board on Books for Young People, the prize "recognizes lifelong achievement" and is "an important, lasting contribution to children's literature." Illustration: Kediler Adası ("Cats' Island") by Behiç Ak
Ak is also known for being an avid activist in environmental and urban issues. Illustration: Benim Karışım ("My Hand") by Behiç Ak
The author of over a hundred books and plays, Ak has received more than a dozen awards for his writing, as well as for his drawing, both artistic and architectural. Illustration: Karadeniz'deki Yunus ("Dolphin in the Black Sea") by Behiç Ak