150 Award Genres
Children
- Children - Action
- Children - Adventure
- Children - Animals
- Children - Audiobook
- Children - Christian
- Children - Coming of Age
- Children - Concept
- Children - Educational
- Children - Fable
- Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
- Children - General
- Children - Grade 4th-6th
- Children - Grade K-3rd
- Children - Mystery
- Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
- Children - Non-Fiction
- Children - Picture Book
- Children - Preschool
- Children - Preteen
- Children - Religious Theme
- Children - Social Issues
Christian
- Christian - Amish
- Christian - Biblical Counseling
- Christian - Devotion/Study
- Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
- Christian - Fiction
- Christian - General
- Christian - Historical Fiction
- Christian - Living
- Christian - Non-Fiction
- Christian - Romance - Contemporary
- Christian - Romance - General
- Christian - Romance - Historical
- Christian - Thriller
Fiction
- Fiction - Action
- Fiction - Adventure
- Fiction - Animals
- Fiction - Anthology
- Fiction - Audiobook
- Fiction - Chick Lit
- Fiction - Crime
- Fiction - Cultural
- Fiction - Drama
- Fiction - Dystopia
- Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
- Fiction - Fantasy - General
- Fiction - Fantasy - Urban
- Fiction - General
- Fiction - Graphic Novel/Comic
- Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
- Fiction - Historical - Personage
- Fiction - Holiday
- Fiction - Horror
- Fiction - Humor/Comedy
- Fiction - Inspirational
- Fiction - Intrigue
- Fiction - LGBTQ
- Fiction - Literary
- Fiction - Magic/Wizardry
- Fiction - Military
- Fiction - Mystery - General
- Fiction - Mystery - Historical
- Fiction - Mystery - Legal
- Fiction - Mystery - Murder
- Fiction - Mystery - Sleuth
- Fiction - Mythology
- Fiction - New Adult
- Fiction - Paranormal
- Fiction - Realistic
- Fiction - Religious Theme
- Fiction - Science Fiction
- Fiction - Short Story/Novela
- Fiction - Social Issues
- Fiction - Southern
- Fiction - Sports
- Fiction - Supernatural
- Fiction - Suspense
- Fiction - Tall Tale
- Fiction - Thriller - Conspiracy
- Fiction - Thriller - Environmental
- Fiction - Thriller - Espionage
- Fiction - Thriller - General
- Fiction - Thriller - Legal
- Fiction - Thriller - Medical
- Fiction - Thriller - Political
- Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
- Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
- Fiction - Time Travel
- Fiction - Urban
- Fiction - Visionary
- Fiction - Western
- Fiction - Womens
Non-Fiction
- Non-Fiction - Adventure
- Non-Fiction - Animals
- Non-Fiction - Anthology
- Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
- Non-Fiction - Audiobook
- Non-Fiction - Autobiography
- Non-Fiction - Biography
- Non-Fiction - Business/Finance
- Non-Fiction - Cooking/Food
- Non-Fiction - Cultural
- Non-Fiction - Drama
- Non-Fiction - Education
- Non-Fiction - Environment
- Non-Fiction - Genealogy
- Non-Fiction - General
- Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
- Non-Fiction - Grief/Hardship
- Non-Fiction - Health - Fitness
- Non-Fiction - Health - Medical
- Non-Fiction - Historical
- Non-Fiction - Hobby
- Non-Fiction - Home/Crafts
- Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
- Non-Fiction - Inspirational
- Non-Fiction - LGBTQ
- Non-Fiction - Marketing
- Non-Fiction - Memoir
- Non-Fiction - Military
- Non-Fiction - Motivational
- Non-Fiction - Music/Entertainment
- Non-Fiction - New Age
- Non-Fiction - Occupational
- Non-Fiction - Parenting
- Non-Fiction - Relationships
- Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
- Non-Fiction - Retirement
- Non-Fiction - Self Help
- Non-Fiction - Short Story/Novela
- Non-Fiction - Social Issues
- Non-Fiction - Spiritual/Supernatural
- Non-Fiction - Sports
- Non-Fiction - Travel
- Non-Fiction - True Crime
- Non-Fiction - Womens
- Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Poetry
Romance
Young Adult
- Young Adult - Action
- Young Adult - Adventure
- Young Adult - Coming of Age
- Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
- Young Adult - Fantasy - General
- Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
- Young Adult - General
- Young Adult - Horror
- Young Adult - Mystery
- Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
- Young Adult - Non-Fiction
- Young Adult - Paranormal
- Young Adult - Religious Theme
- Young Adult - Romance
- Young Adult - Sci-Fi
- Young Adult - Social Issues
- Young Adult - Thriller
Illustration Award
Recommend this book:
Sticky Icky Vicky
Courage over Fear
Alysia and Michael Ssentamu
2022 Bronze Medal
38 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
Are you afraid of something? So much so that you refuse to do something that might be fun to avoid facing that fear? That’s Vicky’s problem. She had a terrible scare when she was younger; she was almost swallowed by a huge wave while playing in the water. That fear of water stayed with her, so much so that she avoids any contact with water. She will only shower once a week and even that is very brief; she refuses to have a bath. The problem is, as you can imagine, Vicky loves to play outside and get muddy. Without bathing at the end of the day, without even washing it off, she is always sticky and icky. Hence her nickname, Sticky Icky Vicky. When her friend invites her to a birthday party at a water park, Vicky is determined to confront her fear once and for all. After all, splashing around in the water with her friends sounds like a lot of fun.
Alysia and Michael Ssentamu’s picture book story, Sticky Icky Vicky: Courage over Fear, is a charming story that addresses the concept of fear. Told in rhyming verse, the plot follows Vicky through her daily routine of playing outside, refusing to bathe, how her friends call her Sticky Icky Vicky, and then the birthday invitation. Attracted by the idea of having fun in the water, even though she’s terrified of water, gives Vicky a challenge to confront her fear head-on. Although there’s a negative voice, Negative Ned, urging her to listen to her fears, there’s also a new voice, Positive Ted, who’s encouraging her to try. All she needs is a little courage and a plan. The lyrical nature of the rhyming story and the beautiful, bold, colorful illustrations make this book a gem that will help young readers face their own fears like Vicky did. With positive thinking, anything can be accomplished. That’s what Vicky learned. Beautifully told and presented.
Recommend this book:
Stressy Jessy
A Book About Organizing the Mind
Carmel Shami
2022 Silver Medal
54 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
Stress kills! Too many parents fail to realize how stressful life has become for their children. There was a time when stress was foreign to children; now, stress is their chief problem. Carmel Shami realizes how much stress affects children and addresses this issue in her book, Stressy Jessy. This book teaches a fantastic coping skill to deal with stress, no matter your age. Stress starts to melt away when children learn to organize their lives and thought processes. Learning how to organize one’s brain and life is a skill that will serve your child well throughout their life. Messy thinking tends to lead to messy lives. Messy lives tend to increase one’s stress. Use this book to teach your child how to break the cycle of stress.
In Stressy Jessy, Carmel Shami shows she is an expert in teaching children how to handle stress. I really love the thought of just throwing some useless and harmful ideas away. We become overwhelmed when we try to hold onto too much negativity. Jessy realized he had a limited amount of space to deal with issues. Trying to stuff too much into their mind will cause people to become overstressed. Carmel has given parents a fantastic book to help their children cope with stress. The parents might even learn about how to handle their own stress. I was a counselor for 40 years and highly recommend this book for parents to share with their children. Rani Bar-Segev did an outstanding job illustrating this book. Her illustrations depicted the writing very well.
Recommend this book:
Katy Has Two Grampas
Julie Schanke Lyford and Robert A. Schanke
2022 Gold Medal
40 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
Katy has a problem. She is different than most of the other children in her class. Julie Schanke Lyford and Robert A. Schanke explain how Katy is differently-abled in Katy Has Two Grandpas. Katy has a lisp. Kids and adults can be cruel to children who speak differently. Because of this, Katy has faced ridicule from other children because of her difficulty in pronouncing certain words. Even her teacher did not understand. Julie and Robert tenderly tell Katy’s story and her dilemma. Katy’s class will have Grandparents Day, and Katy wants her two grandpas to come. If her grandpas come, she will have to introduce them. If she presents them, the other kids will laugh at how she speaks. Read this story to learn how the challenge is resolved. You will also learn how Katy and her two grandpas are accepted by the children in the class.
In Katy Has Two Grandpas, Julie Schanke Lyford and Robert A. Schanke present the story of Katy. With great compassion for Julie’s daughter and Robert’s granddaughter, they tell her story of fear and being the butt of ridicule. Those of us who have problems speaking plainly totally understand this story. Because of my speech impediment, I remember having fun made of me by both children and adults. However, Katy is courageous and overcomes her fear of speaking to her classmates. Parents can read this book to their children and help them understand that different is not bad nor something to poke fun at. Differently-abled children (I refuse to call them disabled) need love and acceptance like any other child. I almost shouted out in joy at Katy’s victory over her fear. I absolutely love this book and highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Who Can I Be?
Ivory M Leonard
2021 Finalist
26 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
Our children need the ability to dream big. We need to encourage them so that they can be anything and live whatever life they choose. While all types of professions are at their disposal to explore from being an astronaut, teacher, explorer, and archeologist to a musician, no one can beat them at being themselves. In the children's picture book, Who Can I Be? by Ivory M Leonard with illustrations by Saeed Briscoe, children will go on a journey with seven-year-old Ahkleem as he begins to explore his dreams. In this book, your child will see that life is about possibilities, awareness, and self-acceptance. One day Ahkleem's mom told him, "You’re already the sun, the moon, even the trees. Just never allow anyone to tell you who to be.” This statement set him on the path of not only realizing that he can be anything but that the ultimate gift is being himself.
I'm a fan of reading children's books because they stimulate self-esteem, confidence, and the cognitive skills that children need for healthy development. As your child reads Who Can I Be? they'll be challenged to open their minds and heart to new ideas and prospects that would seem otherwise unavailable to them. In this book, children will realize that just like their ancestors they are inventors, explorers and can embark on any chosen path. I loved that in this book the education and learning continue with the Treasure Hunt, which invigorates your child's attention to detail and an introduction to new concepts and ideas. This book is strongly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Cookie Doughga
A Book about Yoga, Mindfulness, and Cookies!
Margot Harris
2021 Honorable Mention
32 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
Yoga and cookies, what a clever combination! Margot Harris has written a fun story called Cookie Doughga: A Book about Yoga, Mindfulness, and Cookies! Maria and her Mama are busy making cookie dough when they decide to make the cookies in the shape of yoga poses. While the cookies are baking, they decide to practice some of those same poses. They practice some grounding poses, some active poses, and some stretching poses, and then they end with a relaxing child's pose. The cookies are ready, but Maria suddenly worries they might not turn out just right. Her Mama suggests she connect with her body and check in. Maria does and realizes she is in control of her feelings.
Cookie Doughga is an inventive way to introduce yoga and mindfulness. Margot Harris describes each pose in rhyming verse and challenges kids with a little extra at the end. The illustrations by Stefanie Geyer are marvelous. Maria and her Mom are shown doing poses in settings that match the pose, i.e. the cobra pose in the desert. I loved how the page numbers are also in yoga poses! Harris has gone beyond just sharing simple yoga poses to include the benefits of being connected to your body. Maria can use what she's learned to let go of her worries and celebrate her uniqueness. Cookie Doughga: A Book about Yoga, Mindfulness, and Cookies! will be welcomed by parents and teachers who want to share the benefits of yoga and mindfulness with young people in their life. Kids will be excited to make their own cookie doughga.
Recommend this book:
The Day the Screens Stood Still
A Funny Picture Book Encouraging Less Screen Time
R.L. Ullman
2021 Bronze Medal
38 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
The Day the Screens Stood Still written by R.L. Ullman and illustrated fabulously by Buhmi Loupito is a book all middle grade kids should read—and parents too. With all the blessings home computing has brought us, some bad things have come along. Like taking us away from the world and the people around us. This splendid picture book brings the point home. Sammy, a bright little boy, is fixated on the screen of his laptop, streaming cat videos (he has a dog named Howie but prefers looking at cats), playing games, and taking selfies—he’s really a cute kid and the selfies are great. Then, strangely, the screen goes off, not only for him but for his parents. But only for them, not their neighbors.
Then they freak out (like we all do when it happens to us). R.L. Ullman suggests the sadness of our screen dependence by showing the advantages of off-screen time in bringing us together with our natural surroundings, with our families and friends, and with people in need. It’s a well-taught lesson. Bhumi Loupito’s drawings are superbly eye-catching, especially Sammy’s many selfies. My favorite is Howie the dog’s hideout at the end. There are words that will stretch kids’ vocabulary too: permanent, freak-out, twitched, whiz, notice, epic, realized, and unexpected. But the best part is the message that the unexpected turns in life can bring new things into our awareness and that much enjoyment in life happens in places other than the internet. The Day the Screens Stood Still by R. L. Ullman and Buhmi Loupito teaches lessons not only kids but many adults should learn.
Recommend this book:
If I Were a Pony
(Mom's Choice Award Recipient)
Leonard Eckhaus
2021 Silver Medal
32 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
If I Were a Pony by Leonard Eckhaus is the story of a boy and his pony. The simple text makes it a great choice for early readers especially those that love horses. The pony and his boy share many adventures. They ride across streams; they ride with friends and sometimes they just enjoy each other’s company. The boy, of course, also takes care of his friend when their ride is over. As they both age, their story continues but the things they can do together change. The pony remembers all the fun they had together and feels happy that they got to share them. Stacy Hummel’s bright, colorful illustrations bring an added dimension to the book.
Leonard Eckhaus has written a sweet story about two great friends. As a former librarian, I know how much kids love horse stories. If I Were a Pony will be a story that beginning readers will want to read again and again. The joy and love the boy and his pony share will be familiar to all animal lovers. Echkhaus has also gently included a theme about how we all age and with that aging comes change. I especially enjoyed that he shared how important fond memories are and even though we might be sad that we can no longer do those things, how lucky we were to be able to experience them. Grandparents will especially enjoy sharing this book with their grandkids. Horse lovers young and old will want to read this charming story.
Recommend this book:
Balloons for Tiger
Lori Orlinsky
2021 Gold Medal
38 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
How to talk to children about the death of a pet is a dilemma for many parents. The children’s book, Balloons for Tiger, written by Lori Orlinsky, provides a heartwarming way to broach the subject. The story begins with the family releasing balloons into the sky. When the younger daughter asks where the balloons go, the mother replies they go on vacation until they reach their final destination. It is a grand adventure as the balloons sail over Italy and Spain, see Santa Claus and the stork, sail past skydivers and superheroes. Eventually, the balloons find their way to Tiger, the family cat, on a cloud. Tiger sends a sign to the family that she is safe and sound, and she will continue to live in their memories.
This captivating children’s book has many wonderful, helpful features. Its focus is positive, diminishing fears or misconceptions about what happens when a cherished pet dies. The illustrations by Vanessa Alexandre are delightful, adding to a child’s imagination of how the pet lives on. The rhyming text adds a light touch. The author includes discussion questions for educators (and parents will find these useful too). A licensed clinical social worker outlines five “Coping Strategies for Parents.” An experienced children’s book author, Lori Orlinsky has developed an engaging way for parents to discuss the loss of a pet in Balloons for Tiger. The book provides loving reassurance for children and talking points for parents. It can also lay the foundation for open discussions when a grandparent or other loved one dies. A must for every child’s library!
Recommend this book:
David's ADHD
Sherrill S. Cannon
2020 Honorable Mention
28 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
David's ADHD is a picture book for children written by Sherrill S. Cannon and illustrated by Kalpart. David’s classmates don’t get upset when he acts out in the schoolyard or is hyper in class. They know sometimes he seems frustrated and unable to focus on the teacher and what they are learning. His behavior might have confused them in the past, but they know that David has ADHD. They understand that the camera we all have in our heads works differently in David’s; his focusing lens operates differently. David’s parents had wondered what was happening with their son. They could feel his despair and confusion -- and even his rage. Finally, they learned after testing that David had ADHD. And that he wasn’t the only kid who had it. Best of all, they learned that the doctors could show them how to help David wake up his focus.
Sherrill S. Cannon’s David's ADHD introduces the subject of ADHD to children and their caregivers in a fun and easy-to-read format. The author demystifies what is a confusing and upsetting mode of behavior and shows how caregivers can work with kids like David and help them explore their strengths more fully. I especially liked how the book also includes those kids who have had interactions with kids like David. It clearly explains why they behave as they do and what challenges they face. With that knowledge, kids can learn to empathize with someone they may have avoided in the past. Kalpart’s bright and colorful illustrations chart David’s progress as he consults with his doctor, works on his schedule with his mom and dad, and excels on his computer. I was pleased to learn that medication is not the only treatment for ADHD. David’s ADHD shows that quite clearly in a story that’s accessible to kids and caregivers alike. David's ADHD is most highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
CRACKODILE
Czarina Tran-Bernett
2020 Bronze Medal
43 Pages
Check current price
Children - Concept
The little girl's leg was itching and her mother wanted to apply lotion. The little girl was not too keen on that because she did not like the white sticky stuff on her. Then she noticed the flakes on her arms and her father also suggested applying lotion on her. She did not let him do it and then she noticed the red blotches on her hand. She still did not want her Mommy to apply the icky-sticky white stuff on her. There were bumpy scaly spots on her face and she was still not ready to lather the lotion on her. The little girl was scared and she wanted her scaly skin to go away, so finally, she agreed to try applying the lotion. Why did she say she was turning into a 'crackodile'?
Crackodile by Czarina Tran-Bernett teaches children the importance of self-care in an adorable way. The lotion is a good way to solve the problems of many children who have dry skin and the author's approach to the topic is entertaining and delightful. Pei Jen's illustrations breathe life into the characters and the story and make them real and relatable. It is a good story for parents to use for storytelling sessions, especially if they have little children who do not like to apply lotion and end up having scaly skin. The little girl's transformative journey is encouraging and motivating to readers and all 'crackodiles' will agree to using lotion to stop their skin from becoming scaly. The story is simple and well-expressed and I am sure every child will grab the lotion and apply it after reading this story. Books like this help young readers understand messages, concepts, and ideas with clarity when expressed via a story and interesting characters.