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 - Science/Technology
- 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:
Mica Powers and the Legend of the Superstitions
When Lightning Strikes Heroes Are Born
MSV Walker

2025 Finalist
260 Pages
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Children - Action

Mica Powers and the Legend of the Superstitions is a children's fantasy novel by MSV Walker. Mica Powers is already thirteen years old, but his powers as a Spinical have yet to show. He is still haunted by the memories of when his mother was taken away from him by the leader of the Dreads, Deedra. Alongside his friends, the twins Kevin and Kelly, Mica attends the Domain Arizona School of Spinical Studies, where youngsters learn to manifest and use their Imperia. Estee Bradford, an orphan, is the new girl in school, and Mica discovers he and Estee are the only two Wildcards in their class. Meanwhile, the Dreads are searching for a powerful weapon, and Mica is the only one who can stop them. How will Mica and his friends fare against a face-off with the Dreads?
Filled with magic, mystery, and intrigue, Mica Powers and the Legend of the Superstitions is an action-packed fantasy ride you don't want to end. If you're a fan of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, this book will be right up your alley. Author MSV Walker has built a wondrous and imaginative fantasy world featuring a magic system that is distinctly authentic and intriguing. Walker provides bits and pieces of lore about the world organically throughout the story, and it makes the setting very immersive for the reader. The characters are likable and easy to root for. Mica, Estee, the twins, and Moonshadow were my favorite characters of the bunch. I also thoroughly enjoyed the dynamic between Mica and his friends and their humorous interactions. In conclusion, I heartily recommend this book to both preteen and young adult readers.
Recommend this book:
The Roll-Away Snowman
Junia Wonders

2025 Honorable Mention
46 Pages
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Children - Action

The Roll-Away Snowman is a children's picture book written by Junia Wonders with illustrations by Daniela Volpari. The story follows Marla Little, a young girl who builds a snowman. Just as she is about to dress him up, a mischievous wind sprite blows her snowman away. Determined to bring him back, Marla chases after him. The snowman rolls away from her home and heads toward the town stores, where he encounters various shopkeepers who offer festive items to help dress him up. Marla expresses her gratitude to each shopkeeper but continues her pursuit of her beloved snowman. When he finally comes to a stop, Marla catches up to him and is thrilled to see his new look, adorned with buttons, a hat, a scarf, a carrot nose, and stick arms. Filled with joy, she makes a wish that makes her winter dreams come true.
The Roll-Away Snowman is a delightful story that will warm your heart. It is the second book in Junia Wonders' The Roll-Away series and offers a whimsical tale about winter adventures. Young readers will learn how to decorate a snowman and the importance of teamwork. Marla is an endearing character who shows appreciation to everyone who helps transform her snowman, and her beautiful wish reflects her compassionate nature. The book also includes educational elements, featuring a glossary of different words, mainly focusing on occupations and the names of shops mentioned in the narrative. One of the highlights of this book is the vibrant illustrations that bring the story to life. They possess a magical quality that aligns perfectly with the enchanting ambiance of winter. The sparkling lights, the swirling wind filled with soft whispers, and the unique snowflakes floating in the air collectively create a captivating atmosphere that draws readers into the story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend adding it to your family's holiday reading list.
Recommend this book:
Polar Post
An Erutuf National Park Novel
Kathy Arnold Cherry

2025 Bronze Medal
156 Pages
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Children - Action

Polar Post by Kathy Arnold Cherry is an adventurous and imaginative children’s novel that transports readers to the magical Erutuf National Park. The story follows siblings Reese and Dean, along with their dog Tutu, as they are whisked away to a park in the Arctic region. The novel masterfully combines excitement and education, featuring interactive elements like Junior Ranger activities that encourage kids to engage with the natural world. Reese’s love of math and Dean’s constant humor bring a unique dynamic to their sibling relationship. Tutu’s newfound ability to talk adds more fun to the story with her humorous comments about treats and adventures. The children navigate ice mazes, meet a magic-performing polar bear named Ty, and encounter virtual reality experiences.
Kathy Arnold Cherry's writing is lively and eloquently captures the spirit of childhood exploration. The interactions with the park’s magical inhabitants, such as talking animals, add excitement and fun, while the story’s educational aspects encourage young readers to consider the importance of conservation. The curiosity, bravery, and teamwork themes make it an entertaining and valuable read. Polar Post offers a delightful mix of humor, adventure, and learning, making it ideal for young readers who enjoy fantastical stories with some elements of reality. It entertains and inspires children to explore and appreciate the world around them. Cherry’s inclusion of fun facts and discussion questions make Polar Post an excellent addition to elementary classrooms, as students can learn about the country’s national parks in an engaging way. It's a great learning tool for parents and caregivers, too!
Recommend this book:
Potato Man
The Living Potato Superhero - Part I
Arya Arun

2025 Silver Medal
69 Pages
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Children - Action

Potato Man: The Living Potato Superhero - Part I is a children's book written by 12-year-old author Arya Arun. The story begins with an ambitious scientist who experiments to grow the world’s strongest potato. He is surprised to find that his potato talks and calls him "Dad." Not only does the potato speak, but it also has dreams, ambitions, and feelings, becoming the extraordinary Potato Man. This spud-turned-superhero battles the mischievous Tomanator, a tomato-based villain with a flair for chaos. The story is set in a world where vegetables wield remarkable powers. Potato Man navigates hilarious challenges, from dodging Tomanator’s juicy schemes to uncovering secrets in a landfill-bound sack of potatoes. With a colorful cast, including Water Melon and the enigmatic Chief Bob, this is a fast-paced, action-packed tale filled with clever Easter eggs hinting at deeper mysteries for future stories.
This book had me laughing from the first page! Arya Arun’s youthful creativity shines, delivering a story that’s both laugh-out-loud funny and surprisingly layered with intriguing clues for eagle-eyed readers. Dimas Yuli’s vivid illustrations accommodate Arun’s imaginative storytelling, bringing this veggie-fueled adventure to life. The characters are endearing, with Potato Man’s earnest heroism and Tomanator’s cheeky villainy stealing the show. The Easter eggs add a thrilling scavenger hunt element, making it endlessly re-readable. As a debut, it’s impressive how Arun balances humor, heart, and suspense, all while crafting a unique universe. Perfect for comic lovers of all ages, this book is a joyful, mash-up adventure that leaves you hungry for the next one! Potato Man is a vibrant comic book brimming with humor and unique characters. I can't wait to read Part II!
Recommend this book:
Would It Be Weird?
Edgar Garcia

2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Action

Would it Be Weird? by Edgar Garcia is a bedtime story that celebrates a child’s vivid imagination and a parent’s loving (if slightly exhausted) patience. The story follows a curious child who, instead of finishing her dinner, bombards her mom with a series of hilariously bizarre "what if" questions, from having a piano for a mouth to sharks that challenge her to an epic dance battle, helping Viking cows defeat giant chicken pirates, and getting alien makeovers that turn the family into rock stars. The wild ideas just keep coming, but Mom always has an answer. While she insists, “Yes, that would be weird,” she joins in each fantasy scenario, until even she finally gives in: “GO TO BED!”
What makes Edgar Garcia’s work stand out is that it captures the familiar rhythm of family life, where children attempt to delay bedtime or dinner with never-ending questions, and turns it into a creative showcase of absurd humor and heart. The dialogue is very playful, with the child's curiosity balanced perfectly by the mom’s blend of sarcasm, imagination, and love. Each colorful scene escalates into silliness while maintaining a cozy parent-child dynamic that balances the child’s fantasy. Mariano Epelbaum’s illustrations bring each wacky situation to life with vibrant, animated visuals and a cartoonish charm that matches the story’s energy. From dinosaur school buses to mummified mishaps, the details on each page are as imaginative as the questions themselves, giving readers something new to spot each time. This fun story is ideal for ages 4–8. Would it Be Weird? is a wonderful pick for children with big imaginations and parents who understand the magic of playing along, even when they’re just trying to get through dinner. This book is “weird” in all the right ways.
Recommend this book:
The Boy With Video Game Powers
R.L. Ullman

2024 Finalist
153 Pages
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Children - Action

Hop on for an action-packed fantasy adventure with R.L. Ullman's The Boy With Video Game Powers. Milo Garret is excited to start sixth grade at the prestigious Empire City Magnet School. However, he also wants to keep his spot as the top-ranked player in the online Ranger's Quest video game. After acquiring the ultra-rare Glitch Ring in the game, Milo is shocked to see it appearing on his finger. Additionally, he starts seeing character attributes of Ranger Quest floating over people's heads in real life. He meets an NPC named Greylore, who tells him that the Demons of Havoc from an alternate reality called the Gameverse have entered Milo's world, and he must stop them from acquiring the three Keys of Convergence. Using his new video game powers as Pixel Man, Milo must now save the world.
Gamers and progression fantasy fans will absolutely love this book. R.L. Ullman takes readers on an absorbing and adventurous ride featuring a potent combination of thrilling action sequences, mystery, and a healthy dose of magic that you don't want to end. Ullman's characters are likable and easy to root for. Milo is the type of protagonist readers will want to see succeed. He resembles many real-life preteen gamers who love to indulge in multiplayer online role-playing games. Like other progression fantasy stories, Milo acquires new abilities after completing each task and beating the Demon Spawn. There is a shocking twist toward the end that I can honestly say I didn't see coming. In conclusion, The Boy With Video Game Powers is a fantastic book for young readers.
Recommend this book:
The Legendary Mo Seto
A. Y. Chan

2024 Honorable Mention
320 Pages
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Children - Action

Being a kid can be rough, but it can also be a beautiful time of exploration and self-discovery. The Legendary Mo Seto by A.Y. Chan chronicles the adventures of charming 12-year-old Modesty Seto. Mo is passionate about taekwondo and idolizes Cody Kwok, a martial arts movie star. However, being a kid also comes with unexpected challenges, and "baggy-shirt-unbrushed-hair-can’t-sit-still" Mo experiences a series of events that disrupt her not-so-normal life. Her father leaves under puzzling circumstances, and she discovers a mysterious old book of his with many secrets. Meanwhile, Cody Kwok is looking for a new protege to star in his movies with him. Mo answers the casting call, only to find that her lifelong nemesis, Dax, has done the same. As events spiral out of control and danger looms, Mo discovers that strength is not only the prerogative of the body but also of the heart.
The Legendary Mo Seto by A.Y. Chan is a great book perfect for kids in the 9-12-year age group. It is also a delightful read, and I enjoyed it thoroughly, even though I haven't been in that target age group since the Triassic period. Sure, the plot is exceptional and focuses on self-worth, a touch of mystery, action, and friendship, but what truly stands out about this novel is that it's a fun read. The character development is fantastic, and the young protagonist, Mo, reminded me of someone I hold dear. Secondary characters, from Nacho to Cody, are well-rounded and believable, and even the adults are pretty cool. With a well-balanced and riveting story full of humor, adventure, and angst, The Legendary Mo Seto is a wonderful novel for today's youth.
Recommend this book:
Robbie Larson's Legendary Snow Day
David Towner

2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Action

In the riveting coming-of-age story, Robbie Larson's Legendary Snow Day by David Towner, legendary pirates, and enchanting backdrops are brought to vivid life through a young boy’s powerful imagination. Davey and Robbie are excited when their school is given a snow day. Davey’s excitement is tempered by the realization that he will have to bring Robbie along to dig a system of snow tunnels with his friends. As the group embarks on their long-awaited mission, Robbie discovers an opening to another world. Suddenly, the characters in his pirate-themed video game become real and he comes face to face with Blackbeard, the famous pirate. Meanwhile, the boys' older sister is afraid of what might have happened to her brothers who she should have been watching. As they all unite, they devise a way to return home.
This engrossing story will transport readers to a gripping world with fascinating characters and unforgettable adventures. Towner brilliantly explores sibling relationships, crafting lifelike characters and engaging scenes. I loved that the story explores essential themes about cooperation and teamwork that the target audience will learn from. The story also inspires imagination and will help young readers develop problem-solving skills. The story is full of suspense and I found the children’s adventures intriguing from the start to the end. Robbie is a relatable and authentic main character. A delightful, exhilarating story that includes amazing characters and relevant themes, Robbie Larson's Legendary Snow Day by David Towner is a wonderful book for young readers.
Recommend this book:
Kris & The Pirates
The Adventures of Kris
Art J Blegen

2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Action

A good book can pull you into the story so that you feel as if it’s all about you. When Kris opens a new pirate adventure in Kris & The Pirates by Art Blegen, Kris inserts herself in the pages of her story, and with her new friend James, they convince the captain of their ship to land on a small island slightly out of their way. But what they find there is nothing but trouble because this island is home to pirates. When the entire crew finds themselves captured, it’s up to Kris to save them, if she can manage it on her own. The animals on the island are all willing to help, but it might take some time before she can defeat the pirates and save the crew.
If you’re looking for an adventure story that will have kids racing through the jungle and fighting pirates, you’re in the right place with Kris & The Pirates by Art Blegen. The author uses words that fit the target audience. The author also moves the story along at a reasonable pace. The action scenes are fun and vibrant with each of the characters playing a part in achieving the end goal. Each character is interesting and young readers will feel connected to and excited about them. No matter where Kris turns, there’s someone to help her out. The author helps young readers experience what’s happening by creating believable characters and realistic descriptions of the scenery. Overall, this is a book about overcoming fear and achieving goals with the help of friends. It’s well-written and fun, and it shows kids how they can really immerse themselves in a book and feel as if they’re jumping right into the story.
Recommend this book:
The Roll-Away Pumpkin
Junia Wonders

2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Action

The Roll-Away Pumpkin by Junia Wonders is a children’s book about an orange pumpkin rollicking and rolling down through a quaint town on a windy autumn day. Marla Little, the owner, is chasing her runaway pumpkin as it bounces happily away. The pumpkin catches the attention of the various townspeople who come together to help Marla. The farmer, the baker, the milkman, the butcher, the parade marchers, and finally the chef all become involved in the merry dash to stop the pumpkin from rolling further along. Everyone in the community joins in the fun and adventure as they get a surprise feast at the end.
Author Junia Wonders crafts an utterly charming and winsome story that encapsulates the very essence of autumn without making Halloween the main focus of the book. The easy-to-understand storyline is enhanced by the stunning beauty of the illustrations by Daniela Volpari. The palette of subdued colors is brilliantly blended to create a visual masterpiece that sets this book apart. The reader can pause with their little ones to admire and start a fun discussion about each colorful scene, prompting their child to engage in a lively dialogue to enhance their thinking skills. Two phrases that are fun to remember and say out loud are continuously repeated throughout the book to further help young children develop their reading skills. The Roll-Away Pumpkin is certain to become a children’s classic for all ages as the story and artwork perfectly combine to evoke the magic of fall.
