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:
My Dear Little One
Al Carraway

2023 Gold Medal
32 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

In My Dear Little One, Al Carraway gives godly wisdom and encouragement to young children. Al covers every aspect of life and sets the foundation for children to grow up in a loving and supportive environment. While encouraging children to explore new possibilities and ways of thinking, the author also informs them that trying new things can be scary. Since kindness is not measured in size, even children can brighten someone else’s day by showing compassion. I love the inclusion that since God does not make mistakes, He makes each child perfect for His purpose for them. The Holy Spirit will lead the child, and God will never leave their side. Since we all make mistakes, God allows us to turn around. When the child’s situation is not good, they must remember that God will make something good out of it.
My Dear Little One by Al Carraway shares Al’s passion for telling everyone that happiness exists and comes from living out the gospel of Jesus Christ. The writing style is similar to that found in the biblical book of Proverbs. Al shares her faith as seen during the hard times of life. God’s love shines through the hard, unexpected problems of life. Even with all the disasters surrounding us today, we have reason to rejoice because of God and His love. This love leads us to develop a sense of optimism in the face of calamities. Reading this book with your child will open many opportunities to share your faith. Faith leads to hope, and hope leads to optimism. Use this book as a launching pad for discussions concerning how to live a godly life.
Recommend this book:
I Am a Precious Child of God
Mini Devotionals With Faith-Based Affirmations
Misty Black

2023 Silver Medal
35 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

Happiness is said to be one of the keys to enjoying a great life. Words are a powerful tool to gain that happiness. Being happy with yourself and with your relationships is a significant first step. To a person of faith, this happiness comes from following the word of God. Combining the power of words and faith, Misty Black has created an excellent resource with I Am a Precious Child of God: Mini Devotionals With Faith-Based Affirmations.
I Am a Precious Child of God by Misty Black is an amazing children’s book. The author went above and beyond in producing this book with its incredibly drawn illustrations, affirmations, gospel lessons, and Bible verses. Each page is elegantly designed with vibrant colors, eye-catching text, pictures, and inspirational affirmations. Each page also has a verse at the bottom for readers to reference. Not only is the child learning to be happy with themselves the way God intended, but they will also learn more about the Bible as they look up each verse featured.
This book is a wonderful addition to any family, individual, or educational facility looking to bring faith-based positivity into their lives and the daily routines of their children, or students. Often people say “never go to bed angry” and with this book, you will find peace and happiness to ensure a happy end to the day and a fresh start to your morning. I love this book and its message to gain and spread joy and happiness through our Lord and Savior.
Recommend this book:
When Love Flows
The Beauty of Encouraging Others
Sonia E. Amin

2023 Bronze Medal
43 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

Nora is a compassionate girl with a big heart. She feels enormous love inside and around her but doesn't know how to express her feelings. Nora is so grateful to her mom for the brownies she made. Nora tries to write to her mom about this gratitude but fails for her love is inexpressible. Step by step, Nora learns how to let others know that she loves them. She assists her little sister with her homework or hairstyle. Nora brings brownies to her elderly neighbor as a sign of support. She offers help to Emma when she stumbles at school, and other kids ignore or laugh at her. When Love Flows by Sonia E. Amin is a delightful and important read for children from 4 to 11 years old.
The water metaphor Sonia E. Amin uses regarding love and self-expression is wonderful and profound. I like very much that When Love Flows is an interactive book. Amin asks meaningful questions at the end of the book, urging little readers to seek answers while reading. Arlenis Chirinos, who made amazing colorful illustrations, unobtrusively added a remarkable biblical quote, "Love never fails," as a picture on the wall of Nora's home. When Love Flows is based on biblical principles but is not preachy. Amin graciously shows kids that such a simple gesture of kindness as a hug or a motivational note can be very impactful. All the words that might be unknown to a young audience, like "trickle" or "compassion," are explained in a glossary by the thoughtful and gifted author.
Recommend this book:
In Search of Sparkle
A Faerie Fairy Tale
Donna E. Lane

2023 Honorable Mention
100 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

Named after the wind because of her unusual frame and the butt of cruel jokes from the other fairies in her Fae community, Aella cannot fathom why she has no sparkle even when others have theirs. As she grows bigger the taunts become worse until one day, tired of it all, she makes up her mind to go on a journey to find her sparkle. She is unprepared for what may come and who she may meet but as long as she finds her heart's desire, this journey is essential. Aella will discover that there is more to life than a bright glow and sometimes to move ahead we must first learn to let go of the past in Donna E. Lane's In Search of Sparkle: A Faerie Fairy Tale.
Donna E. Lane tells a tale of endurance and belief with In Search of Sparkle. Her storyline is beautiful in its presentation. Using age-appropriate and entertaining language that will appeal to young readers, she creates an intriguing story with a feel-good vibe to it that is amazingly simple to follow and understand. Aella's interactions with Bob are delightful and brought a smile to my face on many occasions with their simplistic exchanges. One aspect that I found particularly appealing is the pictures. Sharp colors are expertly melded to create breathtaking pictures that are as beautiful as they are striking. This work turns out wonderfully well for a book targeted at young readers with its interesting subplots, unusual creature names, and eye-catching visuals. Lane deserves plaudits for this lovely addition to a children's library.
Recommend this book:
The Shepherd's Care
Morenike Euba Oyenusi

2023 Finalist
35 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

The Shepherd's Care by Morenike Euba Oyenusi is a wonderful reminder that we are all in the care of God. It starts with Lydia losing her father and, of course, she has a lot of questions. Her mother explains that it was his time to go and she tells her about Jesus and how he looks after us. Jesus asked his disciples to take care of his people like a shepherd would take care of his flock. So too does Jesus look after us. The story continues with Lydia meeting people who are like a shepherd to her and she in turn becomes like that to someone. Showing care for her friend's life. This is a very sweet story and has a lot of heart, I really think kids and adults will love the message.
The Shephed's Care by Morenike Euba Oyenusi is a very heartwarming story with a deep message that will speak to everyone reading it. I loved the illustrations by Subereh M. Monavar which are very colorful. I loved the vivid colors and the depiction of Jesus in a wonderful way. The colors matched the emotions and the backgrounds were perfectly muted for the main characters that needed to stand out. You felt sad for Lydia but you also saw the greater message and I feel this is what the author wanted. I can see parents reading this book to their children, especially if someone they loved has passed away. This book teaches about the love of God and the fact that he looks after us like we are his flock. I feel this story will touch a lot of people deeply. I highly recommend this book.
Recommend this book:
Bax and His Bubbles
All About a Kid and His Thoughts
Sonia Amin

2022 Gold Medal
28 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

Bax and His Bubbles: All About a Kid and His Thoughts by Sonia Amin is a children’s picture book about Bax, who is learning about his thoughts, both good and bad. His parents are there to help guide him in his everyday thought life, with suggestions to help him in his personal growth. In the “Note to Grownups” and the “Let’s Talk About It” section are interactive discussion opportunities and practical help on how to work with children and their thoughts. In my opinion, this book can be characterized by this famous saying: “Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.” -- Lao Tzu
I truly believe that this should be ingrained into our society much more than it is today. What we think really does eventually evolve into who we are as human beings. With the right discipline, we can guide our brains into the positive aspects of mental health and avoid pitfalls along the way. This book strikes at the very heart of Bax’s thoughts, in helpful and practical ways. Without judging him, it shows his humanity, but also how he strives to think what is right. The outcome is a happier lifestyle that he can develop into his adult years. Bax and His Bubbles: All About a Kid and His Thoughts by Sonia Amin is a colorful, fun story about how we can control our thoughts for the good. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Sad Little Wildflower
Yvonne M Morgan

2022 Silver Medal
56 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

It was spring and there were signs of new growth everywhere. Down the road, a small shoot of green stretched upward to feel the sunshine on its leaves. She wondered what type of flower she would be, and wished to be a rose. The little plant grew and grew and one day she noticed a tinge of pink color form around her head. The little plant was so happy as she knew pink roses were beautiful, and she would soon be the envy of all the other flowers. The man thought she was a weed and wanted to remove her so the beautiful tulips would not be choked. The little flower cried and cried, and waited to see what would happen next. A voice asked the little flower why she was sad. The little flower knew it was the voice of Jesus and asked him to turn her into a rose so that people would love her. Let's read the book to find out what Jesus told her, and if the little flower would discover her purpose in life.
The Sad Little Wildflower by Yvonne M. Morgan is a beautiful story that conveys many uplifting and positive messages to young readers. The story is about self-love, self-acceptance, trust, self-belief, and finding out one's purpose in life. The illustrations are bright and colorful, and they make the story captivating to youngsters. I like the way the author gives the little flower a personality of her own as she is called the Pink Lady by Jesus. It is an uplifting and encouraging story to read out to children in classrooms and homes to help them love themselves, be happy with what they have, and also believe that everyone is unique and has their own purpose in life.
Recommend this book:
What Do You Do?
When the Life of a Loved One Has Come to an End
Everly Cade

2022 Bronze Medal
34 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

What Do You Do? When the Life of a Loved One Has Come to an End by Everly Cade is a beautiful picture book for young children based on losing a loved one. A young swan named Crane is suffering from the loss of his little brother, Archie. Crane is sad, lonely, and most of all scared that he will forget about his brother entirely. Not knowing what to do, Crane finally talks to his parents about how he is feeling and soon realizes that talking about the loss really helps, which later inspires him to go and talk to some of his friends about how they deal with the loss of a loved one. First, he asks Mr. Frog, then Mrs. Bison, Mr. LeBron, and finally Mrs. Beaver, who all share their useful coping methods with him. After talking all day, Crane returns home into the safe arms of his mother, and tells her all about his day, and how he will remember little Archie forever! If you have recently lost a loved one and are struggling to explain it to your child, then this book will be perfect.
What Do You Do? was a pleasure to read. Everly Cade has created a beautifully-written book for young children that will help and guide them while they experience the confusion and sadness that comes with losing someone they love. Most children will find it hard to understand the concept of death and that is why books like these are needed. The illustrations by the talented Terri Einer are adorable and professional and children will love them! I'd like to wish both Everly and Terri all of the best in their creative journeys, and I hope to see them work together again soon.
Recommend this book:
Oddball Ornaments
The Story of Christmas
Terry Overton

2022 Honorable Mention
116 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. In this case, “Tree Day.” In Terry Overton’s highly imaginative book, Oddball Ornaments: The Story of Christmas, iconic Christmas ornaments such as a nutcracker and an angel are used to tell the story of the First Christmas. With animated Christmas decorations as characters, Overton weaves in poignant messages about the festive season. Grandma’s role in the tale and Grandpa’s place balance the more fanciful and fun narrative. Human and the inanimate interplay in the story tell how the decorations prepare for their places, amidst wondering about the usual smell of turkey and cookies. Led by Nutcracker, the ornaments are on a quest to tell the meaning of the season, despite the uncertainty they sense.
I love that Oddball Ornaments includes a spiritual base, with an underpinning of scriptural truth. Cleverly conceived and developed, Terry Overton uses her background in psychology and education to write a meaningful story. Enchanting illustrations enhance the storyline and we watch as Red Ball, Ballerina, and others are brought to life on the pages. I believe Overton’s delightful book is suitable for children but also it will be appreciated by adults. Learning about prayer and what it means to go to heaven are subtly woven into the plot. The notion of being different is another very important theme in this book. I would read it to children and share it with adults who are open-minded and enjoy a good romp.
Recommend this book:
Princess Amora
Discovers What True Beauty is All About
A. C. Babbitt

2022 Finalist
50 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian

Amora is a princess who can have anything she wants, yet she is not happy. She has doubts that she cannot resolve, such as whether she is pretty enough. It seems a simple question. However, by asking several people, she gets different answers about beauty, but these are unhelpful. Nothing they comment on seems to be enough until God gives her the right answer. Princess Amora Discovers What True Beauty is All About teaches young girls to grow up with self-confidence and gives them advice from the Bible. This story will encourage girls to accept that they look perfect as they are, without judging or comparing themselves. A. C. Babbitt teaches a life lesson, which will help young readers grow up feeling secure. Girls will feel loved and understand how important it is to know themselves.
It is important to talk to girls about beauty so that they grow up with a healthy attitude toward themselves and others. We live in times that define beauty in a specific and superficial manner, but true beauty goes far beyond appearances and girls need to understand this. Confidence comes from within and is the most important pillar of attraction. I liked Princess Amora Discovers What True Beauty is All About because it is a simple story, but with a useful lesson on a social and personal level. The idea is reinforced by the passages from the Bible that are introduced at the end. A. C. Babbitt teaches us to look into our hearts, seek harmony with God, and feel loved.
