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:
Dragons in the Barn
Lola's Adventures
Ennes Higgins

2022 Finalist
32 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is the story of four siblings engrossed in their digital devices. Lola is on her iPad researching global warming, Liam and Toby with the laptop are watching funny cat videos, and Sara, the teenager, is chatting away on her cell phone with her friends. When the children don’t listen to their grandma, she takes away their devices and instructs them to clean the barn. Discouraged by the filth in the barn, Lola cracks on with the work, thinking the sooner they finish cleaning, the sooner she can get back to her research project, but her siblings have other plans. Liam and Toby set the game in motion, and Sara, the eldest, surprisingly, is also willing. Three of the siblings search for ways to defend themselves from the imaginary hungry dragons, but Lola feels out of place because this imaginative game does not come as easily to her as it does to her siblings. With some help from their grandma, Lola finds a way to let her imagination run free.
Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is a well-written story that is insightful, refreshing, and relevant to our times. I remember a time when playing in the yard and using your imagination was the best fun you could have. Due to digital transformation and parents attempting to balance work and home life, digital devices have become the go-to toy to keep children busy. Higgins explores this troubling reality and reminds children and adults alike about the importance of using your imagination and how, unlike the world, through imagining, anything is possible and thus more fun and exhilarating. On the other hand, the story also shows how the brilliant young Lola uses her intelligence in the imaginative world; therefore, intellect and imagination complement one another. Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is a heart-warming story that I loved reading.
Recommend this book:
The Order of Time
Scott P. Southall

2021 Gold Medal
266 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

The Order of Time by Scott P. Southall is an engaging children's fantasy with believable characters and strong hints of adventure. It follows Anastasia and Edward Upston, eleven-year-old twins who attend the elite Blake Academy and who love exploring the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. When they have a run-in with a weird, freaky character, a person who looks like he belonged to another time, the twins eventually unearth a more disturbing truth: their friend and mentor, Dr. Alfred Gregorian (Dr. G.), the curator of the Smithsonian, a wrinkly man who radiates kindness, belongs to a Secret Society known as the Order of Time. A disruption has occurred in the past and it threatens the present, so Anastasia and her brother must travel back in time and try to fix it. But ancient Egypt is filled with danger and enemies—assassins, unforgiving gods, corrupt high priests, and more. Can they succeed and make their way back to the present?
This is a fantastic tale that will appeal to fans of adventure, time travel, and fantasy, and a story that is well-written for young readers. The twins make a wonderful pair, and while they have their unique personalities, they share a powerful bond that is deftly explored in the narrative. Scott P. Southall writes in prose that is enchanting and accessible and weaves powerful descriptions in the story. The journey to the past is an exciting one and while I marveled at the excitement that accompanies the two lead characters, I also worried about their fate as they move from one danger to the next. The concept of time is skillfully developed, and time appears to be like a character in the story. The Order of Time is fast-paced, featuring compelling characters, a great setting, and a cleverly written plot. It is a delightful read for fans of young adult fantasy and time travel.
Recommend this book:
Waverly the Witch
A Magical Adventure for Children Ages 3-9 (Waverly's Magical Adventures)
Angela Lindsey

2021 Silver Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Waverly the Witch: Waverly's Magical Adventures, A Magical Adventure for Children Ages 3-9 is a children’s fantasy adventure picture book written by Angela Lindsey and illustrated by Corryn Webb. Waverley was nervous about attending a new school after her family moved to a new town, but she soon discovered her school was rather special. She couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw a teacher in wizard robes, and there was even a wand she noticed in the cafeteria during lunch. What kind of school was this anyway? Her curiosity and excitement grew even deeper when she stumbled upon a classroom where potions were being brewed by the students, creating marvelous bubbles tinted in neon shades that floated throughout the room. And while it was all strange and new, Waverly felt comfortable with it all. She loved her new school and the friends she was making there, and she couldn’t wait to tell her parents all about it.
Angela Lindsey’s Waverly the Witch addresses the fears kids and grownups often feel when encountering new experiences and places. As Waverly discovers, her new school is a warm and friendly place where she feels perfectly at home. I appreciated how her parents encouraged her to discover the magical qualities of her school and herself for herself. Corryn Webb’s images are the perfect accompaniment to this charming story. Each page holds clues for careful readers to learn more about Waverly and her family’s magical background. Likewise, those panels showing the school are brimming with magic -- dragons, pointed hats, wands, and even a flying broomstick or two can be spied as young readers follow Waverly’s adventures. While an excellent selection for story hour, Lindsey’s choice of vocabulary and large font make this a perfect choice for a new reader, magical even. Waverly the Witch: Waverly's Magical Adventures is most highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Princess Serafina and the Mystical Unicorn
Kristi Shimada

2021 Bronze Medal
42 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Kristi Shimada writes children's stories that are not only fun and original, but also teach valuable lessons to children and their parents. Children may learn most things at school and with their friends, but the deep and heartfelt teachings and lessons are learned at home with the people they love. Princess Serafina and The Mystical Unicorn is a tale following Mirabella, a special unicorn who is unlike the other unicorns in the land of Lilia. Mirabella has wings and a golden glowing horn. Her differences have led her to live a solitary life with no friends. Her fellow unicorns have failed to accept her due to her differences. This book teaches young readers that beauty is on the inside and that everyone is different; our uniqueness should be celebrated.
Princess Serafina and The Mystical Unicorn by Kristi Shimada is a timely tale that has a wide number of valuable lessons, and not just for children. I have been reminded of just how important it is to love oneself even though each individual is different from the next. Life is more than looks and true friends will always support and appreciate you and, most importantly, help you be happier with yourself. This book helps children understand that being mean to other children because of their physical differences is not acceptable. This lesson is one that should be taught to every child in this world. Maybe then humanity could improve for the better, for us, and for the ones to come. Everyone is beautiful in their own way.
Recommend this book:
Mango The Long Haired Ginger Cat
Join Mango in this cat fairy tale as she learns to be happy with who she is and what she has. Especially her family.
Grandma Krazy

2021 Honorable Mention
72 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Finding out who you’re NOT is at the heart of this delightful children’s book, Mango the Long Haired Ginger Cat, written by Grandma Krazy and illustrated by Lauren Garcia. Mango didn’t like being a long-haired ginger cat because her long hair was hard to care for. She was tired of the rules and the chores she was made to do and she longed to be different – a LOT different, as it turns out! Mango’s seemingly dissatisfied life takes a drastic turn the day she finds a beautiful sparkling rock that turns into some wonderful colors. The rock comes with an added surprise that has the power to change Mango’s life...
Most children, even adults, often fantasize about being something that they’re not. Mango has the opportunity of a lifetime to actually change who she is but receives a rude awakening when her family becomes frightened of her and ends up rejecting her. Like most children’s books, the author teaches children valuable life lessons like not trying to be something you’re not and being satisfied with being the best you can. Grandma Krazy also underscores the importance of family and the loving embrace and acceptance family provides.
Garcia’s illustrations are simple, sweet, and filled with emotional authenticity. Each image of Mango and her family leaps off the pages as if inviting the reader to rub a belly or scratch under a chin. Garcia manages to nail the mannerisms of cats, from the way they flatten their ears to the way in which they delicately wash themselves or huddle in a group. Mango the Long Haired Ginger Cat is also a great introduction to cats and their mannerisms for children who may be a little unsure or nervous around animals. Mango the Long Haired Ginger Cat is a great book that teaches some important life lessons and is sure to be a treat for young children.
Recommend this book:
The Pirate Princess and the Sirens' Song
Suzanne Lowe

2021 Finalist
178 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Suzanne Lowe’s The Pirate Princess and the Sirens’ Song is the sequel to the award-winning Pirate Princess and the Golden Locket and it continues on with Lotty, her dog Mr. Jacks, and her newfound family. Despite being treated as an outcast by most of the pirates on the ship, Lotty still feels excited and overwhelmed as she finally gets to be with her father, the captain of the pirates. In the middle of their journey to Feather Island, an unexpected fierce storm pushes their ship to an island where three mystical sirens await. Thus begins Lotty’s quest in search of what the sirens requested from her. Will Lotty be able to overcome her biggest fears and rescue her shipmates from the sirens’ spell?
The Pirate Princess and the Sirens’ Song by Suzanne Lowe is a short but delightful book that holds valuable lessons about facing your fears. The moment I started the first chapter, I could already sense the warmth and positivity that this story holds. Lotty’s relationship with her dad remains sweet and adoring despite their long separation. The familial love they showed each other tugs on my heartstrings and it is one of the many things I loved about this story. Lotty’s display of bravery, selflessness, and goodwill is truly praiseworthy. Even after being treated rudely by Frankie, Lotty shows him pure kindness right until the very end. Lotty is definitely a great role model to everyone and I found that she displayed that side well in her adventures. Reading Lotty's journey was exhilarating and she was so heroic. I enjoyed every part of The Pirate Princess and Sirens’ Song.
Recommend this book:
Princess Pumpkin Patch
Andi Cann

2020 Gold Medal
62 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Princess Pumpkin Patch is a darling children’s story written by Andi Cann. Princess Sassina, Sassi for short, ruled the Pumpkin Patch Kingdom with joy and kindness. She lived in a beautiful butterfly castle and cared for her square pumpkins. She loved her life, but soon came to ask the question that we all ask ourselves, “Am I enough?” Sassina’s curiosity about the world and her role in it grew and grew. Sassina then embarked on an adventure to find the answer to her question. She found joy on her journey and made a new discovery that filled her with light.
Princess Pumpkin Patch is written in a clear and easy-to-understand way, as Andi Cann speaks to children right on their level. The illustrations are colorful and inviting as well. Cann shares a beautiful and valuable message for kids and adults alike. We each have unique gifts to offer the world, and we are all “enough.” It’s easy to forget that message when life gets you down. As a parent of two young boys and a former preschool teacher, I can say that this is a story that children will love. It’s filled with adventure, discovery, and a message that will stay in their hearts. This sweet little story was a good reminder for me as well to ask questions, seek answers, and be aware of the light that we all add to the world. This message will stick with me, and I look forward to reading more from Andi Cann.
Recommend this book:
Guinevere: The Legend
Book 3 of Guinevere trilogy
Cheryl Carpinello

2020 Silver Medal
178 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Guinevere: The Legend is the concluding entry in the Guinevere trilogy by Cheryl Carpinello, a compelling Arthurian tale with strong characters and a story that explores the themes of friendship and loyalty against the backdrop of a society rocked by a crisis. The little children have been kidnapped, and Cedwyn is with them. Guinevere has made a vow to rescue Cedwyn and she leaves home without telling her father, an act that fills her with guilt. But she doesn’t know her bravery might put Cedwyn in harm’s way. She is just fifteen. And eleven-year-old Cedwyn trusts her absolutely, considering her as his queen. He is certain that she’s coming for him and the children. Can she save them from the renegades who hold the children captive? Traveling across the dark waters to the land beyond, Gaul, is perilous. In spite of the grim tales she’s heard from the old wizard Merlyn, will she continue?
This is a beautifully written story with fascinating characters, set in medieval England, and featuring characters of legend like King Arthur and Merlyn. In this novel, the author deftly develops a tale of adventure that revolves around Guinevere as a young girl and her loyalty to those she loves. The reader encounters her at the very start of the story, poised and on the go, determined to save her friend. Cedwyn is a richly developed young character as well and I enjoyed the way the author develops his friendship and devotion to the protagonist. The writing is filled with strong imagery, including elements of the setting like the rugged landscapes. The author’s unique ability to unveil the strong emotions of the characters and to keep the story realistic is a great addition to the strengths of the novel. The medieval era is reflected in the unique style of conversation and in the beliefs of the characters. Guinevere: The Legend is a gripping tale that keeps the reader turning the pages until the very last one.
Recommend this book:
St George and the Dragon
The Legend of Saint George and the Dragon
Mark Watson

2020 Bronze Medal
41 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Remember to give your princess a rose on St George's Day. What is the reason? St George and the Dragon: The Legend of St. George and the Dragon, written by Mark Watson and illustrated by Richard Caine, is the story of St George, the bravest and finest in the land. He is returning home from crusading with a shield and a lance at hand. As George reaches closer to the shore, he sees that the harbor is no more and the town is ravaged and torn. He sees his castle on the mountain top, bathed in a ray of light. A frightful sound comes from the pit beside the castle and a dragon rises from the gorge. He sees George and asks him if he is all alone. George says that he has no army and he will either fight and win or fight and die. The dragon flicks George off the bridge where they are standing but George is pulled in by his castle's soldiers. George makes a plan to defeat the dragon while recovering slowly. Will he succeed in his mission?
The story is informative and tells young readers about the valor and courage of George who slays the dragon. The illustrations are vibrant and vivid and they bring the story alive for readers and help them understand the reason for giving roses to their princesses on St George's Day and why St George's Day is celebrated all over. The narration is simple and is easy for children to read and learn about the legendary tale of St George and the dragon. It is a good book to help children understand the importance of St George's Day and tutors and educators can use it in classrooms and school libraries for read aloud and story telling sessions. It is a good book to gift to youngsters as the story will teach children about St George and his bravery.
Recommend this book:
Mariko and the Magic Mirror
Kristi Shimada

2020 Honorable Mention
34 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale

Mariko and the Magic Mirror by Kristi Shimada is a child’s fairytale story. Mariko’s mother is dying and, as her legacy, she gave Mariko a magic mirror. Saddened by her mother’s death, Mariko looks into the mirror and she sees a white owl. The owl transports her to a magical place where anything is possible, a place that only she can visit when she wants to remember her mother. Why don’t you join Mariko on her visit to this beautiful, unknown place, one where spirit animals and spirit guides reside in perfect harmony?
Mariko and the Magic Mirror by Kristi Shimada is a fabulous story and credit must be given to Eko Setiawan for the amazing illustrations. This is an easy book to follow, very well written and in simple language. There are some fabulous characters and an exciting story, one that teaches so much. This story will teach children about dying and death, that it isn’t something to be feared. It teaches them about accepting what happens and that there is always hope for another life. The illustrations really help bring this beautiful story to life, brilliantly colored, yet exuding peace and calm. It’s an original story, a great way of dealing with death in a light and magical way while keeping it real. Even without the illustrations, the descriptive writing transports you to this wonderful afterlife, crossing the Rainbow River on the Rainbow Bridge. Beautifully written and illustrated, this story will wrench a whole range of emotions out of you, regardless of your age.
