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:
Help Me Be ME
Samantha Reynolds
2024 Finalist
46 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Rearing children is not easy. Help Me Be ME by Samantha Reynolds gives advice to make parenting easier. All children have needs that must be met for them to grow into healthy—mentally, emotionally, and physically—adults. This picture book presents a child’s needs in a colorful and memorable manner. It is vital for children to know they are loved and accepted for who they are. Suggestions for allowing a child to be who they are include letting them express themselves. For children to mature properly, be sure to notice them and allow them to express their feelings. Pay attention to them. An important distinction is for parents to learn to speak with their child and not at their child.
Samantha Reynolds is passionate about the well-being of children’s emotions. She wrote Help Me Be ME to encourage children to be what they are meant to be. Remember, your child is a child, so they should act like a child. Artist Jessica Hiemstra did a great job of illustrating this small book. As you read this book with your child, notice their reactions. Then, take the time to discuss the various things mentioned by asking questions such as, “How would you like for me to notice you?” Talking with your child will both enlighten you and encourage them. Unconditional love cannot be over-stressed. If a child knows they are loved and accepted, they have all they really need. I recommend this book. Let your child explore who they are, not what you want them to be.
Recommend this book:
Hello, Can I Bug You?
Sherry Roberts
2024 Honorable Mention
30 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Sometimes it’s hard making friends, especially if you’re shy and you like to do things that others don’t like. For example, Jasper likes looking for and studying bugs. He spends recess in the dirt looking for bugs. The other children make fun of him, but he doesn’t seem to care. He just keeps looking for bugs. Briella is shy, too. She likes to swing and read books. While she swings through recess, she studies Jasper looking for bugs. Is it possible to make friends with him? She decides to be brave and approach Jasper. Getting his attention, however, is a little more than she expected. Will she be able to convince Jasper to be her friend?
Sherry Roberts’ picture book story, Hello, Can I Bug You?, is a clever way to introduce differences to young children. We’re all different and we all like different things, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be friends. The story is told in simple language so young readers can follow along and the colorful illustrations help move the story forward and even add a little humor. The double meaning of the word 'bug' will have young readers chuckling as they learn that the word 'bug' in the title is a verb and the bugs Jasper studies are nouns. While the message is about accepting others even if they’re different (which everyone is) and even if they’re shy and they like bugs, there are other educational elements, too, like the different bugs Jasper studies. Overall, a fun read.
Recommend this book:
The Talented Pretzel
Megan Morales
2024 Bronze Medal
35 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
The Talented Pretzel is a children's book by Megan Morales. Pretzel Peyton is concerned when her teacher, Mr. Macaroni, assigns a project for the talent show and encourages Peyton and her classmates to reveal their special talents. As a linear, lightly salted snack, Peyton doesn't believe she possesses a unique skill, so she worries about her presentation. On her way home, though, she encounters friends who need assistance, and she helps them cross rivers, retrieve balls from inside logs, and get down from trees. When Mr. Macaroni calls her to the front of the class, Peyton is ready to hang her head in shame as she talks about her lack of skills, but her classmates have something to say about her that makes Peyton's presentation different.
Megan Morales delivers thoughtful and relatable characters who she calls "snackies". The fun illustrations are paired perfectly with the text, and the characters handle Peyton's unease with kindness. Children who may be lacking self-confidence can gain an alternate perspective by reading this story. Educators can share the story in classrooms to motivate classmates to bolster one another the same way Peyton's peers supported her; caregivers can read the book with the confidence that it is a wholesome story that promotes compassion. Peyton shows humility, and it's a desirable trait. Her character inspires children to do things for others without a thought to how they might benefit from it. The Talented Pretzel is a great selection for youngsters who may need their self-esteem boosted.
Recommend this book:
The Gratitude Jar
A children's book about creating habits of thankfulness and a positive mindset
Katrina Liu
2024 Bronze Medal
28 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
The Gratitude Jar is a children’s picture book written by Katrina Liu and illustrated by Bella Ansori. It tells the story of Mina, a young girl who learns to appreciate the simple things in life through a daily gratitude practice with her family. After attending a friend's party, Mina complains about not getting a pink bracelet, not having a big house like her friend, and having leftovers for dinner. Her mother notices her ungrateful behavior continues even the next day, so she introduces Mina to a gratitude jar, where she and her family write and draw things they are thankful for each day. Through this daily practice, Mina begins to shift her focus to the good things in life and starts to feel happier, recognizing the many blessings she has with her family.
The Gratitude Jar celebrates the importance of gratitude and appreciation, teaching kids to have a positive mindset and attitude. Inspired by the author's children, Mina and Leah, the story features Asian representation and introduces readers to an interesting and relatable cast of characters, helping kids develop emotional skills and strengthen their core values. Katrina Liu presents the lessons in a way that is relatable to young readers. By using a friendly tone and simple words, children can easily follow the story and enjoy getting to know the characters. The colorful illustrations perfectly complement the story and bring it to life. Small details like the family meals and the cozy home decor add a sense of warmth and intimacy to the story. The art also cleverly conveys the emotions and personalities of the characters, making it easy for young readers to connect with them. I enjoyed reading this book and recommend sharing it with your children.
Recommend this book:
A Purpose for Patches
A story of compassion for others and learning survival signs and tools
Author - Gail L. Oxford, Illustrator - Melissa Fox
2024 Silver Medal
48 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
A Purpose for Patches: A Story of Compassion for Others and Learning Survival Signs and Tools by Gail L. Oxford with illustrations by Melissa Fox is a colorful and lively children’s book that tells the story of Patches, a guide dog. Patches’ purpose is to demonstrate important survival signs for Sam who is visually impaired. While on the trip, Patches interacts with different signs and signals like the stop sign, traffic light, and hospital markers among others, which he must learn to protect Sam. The book is very engaging and provides children with useful tips on basic important survival skills while depicting the essence of embracing responsibilities and living a more caring and diligent life for others.
Gail L. Oxford is a great storyteller; her writing style is quite simple yet engaging and this makes it easier for young readers to grasp some difficult concepts. She teaches children about safety and then presents them with the warm, loving story of Patches. The character of Patches is cute and easy to empathize with and this is how children can learn from the story. Melissa Fox’s illustrations fill the book with pops of color that brighten the pages and enable children to identify with what the various signs mean. A Purpose for Patches is appealing and entertaining for children as it helps teach them about ways that they can be helpful and attentive to their surroundings, and the significance of using guide dogs. I highly recommend this story to parents who want to teach their children about safety in an engaging way.
Recommend this book:
The Only Me
Marissa Bader
2024 Gold Medal
35 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
In The Only Me by Marissa Bader, we are introduced to a set of twins that couldn’t be more different. Stella loves to dress up in frilly dresses and outfits while her sister is more of a tomboy and prefers to wear t-shirts and leggings. Many people don’t understand why the girls are so different and that frustrates Stella. She also doesn’t care much about being lumped together with her sister. It makes her feel as if she isn’t seen for who she is and is a separate person from Paige. This often causes Stella to feel that she isn’t good enough or cannot compare to her sister. Paige is good at so many things like sports, handwriting, and having more friends. Stella’s big brother Robby helps her to see that she has many talents that her twin sister does not. She realizes that she’s good at art, puzzles, and ballet while her sister is less so. That makes Stella happy as she has strengths that make her distinctive and more than just Paige’s twin sister.
I thought that The Only Me is a great book that so many kids can relate to. I think a lot of us have a sibling that just seems to be good at everything. Stella is such an adorable character who just wants to be seen for who she is and not compared to her twin the way so many people tend to do. The illustrations are colorful and adorable and fit perfectly with the storyline. Marissa Bader has written a grand book and I can’t wait to see what other works will follow.
Recommend this book:
Ellie Visits the Dentist
Katie Specht
2023 Finalist
24 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Ellie Visits the Dentist by Katie Specht is the story of a young girl named Ellie who loves to eat sweets, including cookies, candy, and cupcakes. Although Ellie ate some vegetables each night, it was just enough so that she could get more sweet treats after supper. One day Ellie went to the dentist for a check-up and to clean her teeth when Dr. Patsy informed her that she had two cavities that needed to be filled at the next appointment. Ellie feared going to the dentist for the second check-up, but it was not such a bad experience. The dental assistant painted her nails, and Dr. Patsy gave her a beautiful hair bow when the procedure was complete. Although Ellie said she loved Dr. Patsy, she didn’t want to see the dentist again soon and vowed to take better care of her teeth.
Ellie Visits the Dentist by Katie Specht is a colorful and delightful storybook about one of the children’s biggest fears, going to the dentist and then learning they need to have a procedure carried out. The story is relatable to most children who loathe dentist visits but love their treats. This story highlights that you can still enjoy sweet things, but to do so, you must clean your teeth properly each day. After the dentist attended to her cavities, Ellie’s mother takes her to get ice cream, emphasizing to both children and adults that it’s okay to enjoy life if you’re responsible. This is a feel-good, lighthearted story.
Recommend this book:
Zoey Wonders Why
Who am I? What am I?
Nadia Khan, Tasya Nabiella
2023 Honorable Mention
54 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Who are we? Everyone wants to know about our past and our heritage, especially children. In Zoey Wonders Why: Who am I? What am I? by Nadia Khan and Tasya Nabiella, we find that Zoey is no different. Her mother has Pakistani background but was raised in the United States and her father grew up in Africa even though his family lives in India. With such a cultural mix, Zoey has a difficult time putting together a cultural presentation from her ancestral country, as she’s expected to bring a special food native to that country. What should she bring? When her classmates begin their presentations and share their food, all she can think about is how much she wants to eat the offerings. That doesn’t help her come up with food that defines who she is and who her ancestors are.
Nadia Khan and Tasya Nabiella’s picture book Zoey Wonders Why is about the compelling questions many young people have. We all want to know and understand our roots because that’s part of what makes us who we are. Told in first person narrative from Zoey’s point of view, the story centers on this five-year-old and her desire to learn more about herself and her heritage. In the process, she must also learn to respect others and enjoy their ancestral stories and foods. There is lots of dialogue and the tender relationship between mother and daughter as well as between Zoey and her younger sibling is touching. The illustrations are bright, bold, and colorful and certainly help move the story along. This is an excellent story for young readers to encourage them to open up and learn about their ancestral heritage as well as to learn to respect and accept others for who they are.
Recommend this book:
The Fish and the Underwater Bird
Barbara Pinke
2023 Bronze Medal
43 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
The Fish and the Underwater Bird is a children's picture book by award-winning author Barbara Pinke. With some beautiful illustrations by Alvin Adhi, the book follows Seaya, a curious fish who loves collecting pretty pebbles, shells, and coral. One day, while hunting for treasures, Seaya stumbles on a mysterious wooden chest. To her surprise, a bird popped out of it and just as quickly went back inside. Determined to free the bird, Seaya tries in vain to open the wooden box. Looking for answers, she visits Professor Turtle, Mr. Octopus, and Mr. Manta Ray, accompanied by her friend Pesho. However, it is Dad Fish who resolves the mystery. Together they wait in front of the wooden chest and this time Seaya finally learns the value of patience.
A delightful children's adventure tale with a gentle lesson on the virtue of patience, The Fish and the Underwater Bird is a book that kids will love. Barbara Pinke tells a short and sweet story about an adorable fish who loves hunting treasures and getting to the bottom of mysteries. Pinke's engaging writing style makes the book fun and all the more immersive to read. Alvin Adhi's eye-catching illustrations splash color onto the pages and bring the characters to life. Seaya is someone kids will find themselves liking. Her vibrant personality makes her easy to relate to, and readers are bound to love her adventurous spirit. A thoroughly enjoyable picture book for children under the age of ten.
Recommend this book:
Dash and Nikki and The Jellybean Game
Anthony C. Delauney
2023 Bronze Medal
38 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Anthony C. Delauney wrote Dash and Nikki and The Jellybean Game to teach kindergarten to third-grade children about saving for the future. Dash and Nikki are brother and sister. One day at breakfast, they find 10 jellybeans near their plates. Their parents give them a challenge: they can eat all the jellybeans now or wait. If they wait, they’ll get more jellybeans later. Nikki ate all her beans almost immediately, but Dash held onto his and received the promised more jellybeans. But he thinks of a way to help his sister—he’ll lend her some jellybeans if she promises to pay him back with interest. Nikki agrees and she receives more jellybeans as the day goes on, with both children getting more jellybeans in the end. Delauney is a financial advisor; he wrote this rhyming book to teach children the value of saving as well as helping others. The book is illustrated by Chiara Civati. This is the first book in Delauney’s Owning the Dash series of children’s books.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dash and Nikki and The Jellybean Game. The rhyming made the book fun to read, but more importantly, the book teaches valuable lessons to children. Many parents want to teach their kids financial lessons but struggle because the kids don’t want to be lectured. This book accomplishes the purpose in an entertaining way that will stick with children. Delauney says that the book is for kindergarten to third-grade children, which is a perfect time to start teaching finances. The illustrations by Chiara Civati are beautiful and fit the accompanying text perfectly. I highly recommend this book to children, parents, and grandparents. My own children would have loved the book when they were young, and they would have learned some valuable lessons.