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:
Oh God. It Hurts!
A book about pain, suffering, and the 'love' of God
John Allen Thornton
2015 Finalist
145 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
Oh God. It Hurts! is a realistic and honest look into traumatic life situations. John Allen Thornton tackles the hard questions of life regarding pain. Pain and suffering come in all shapes and sizes; pain is individualized and can result from good intentions. Pain is administered in different ways, through different human vessels. He uses his own life stories to give understanding of physical and emotional pain. He discusses the lingering effects of judgments made by church leadership and abuse from family members. Yet, he also reveals the healing outcome of those unique individuals who come to help when people are hurting.
John Allen Thornton’s personal approach makes the reader feel at home. His writing technique brings you into the book; you sense a level of comfort, like you are sitting face to face having a chat. He pens an outstanding introduction, grabbing the reader’s attention from the beginning. His writing style is so down to earth you can run your hands, thoughts, and emotions through the soil of his words. Yes, you might get a little dirty, but pain and suffering is a dirty ordeal. Raw and unashamed, he asks probing, mindful questions. He has firsthand knowledge of physical and emotional pain, making his opinions credible. Being a registered nurse, he has witnessed the agony in others. He has been on both side of the needle, and both sides of the paddles. While humorous at times, he never waters down the reality of pain. Although I did not agree with all that was said, this was a refreshing, straight forward approach to life’s tough issues.
Recommend this book:
Follow the Light, the Shroud's Revelations
T. C. Newman
2015 Honorable Mention
116 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
"Follow the Light, the Shroud's Revelations" is the story of T.C. Newman and her daughter, Jessica, as they worked together to determine how the image on the Shroud of Turin was actually formed. The project began as the result of their watching a special on television of the first photographs taken of the Shroud in 1898, and the startling image revealed in the negatives of those photographs. Jessica, then aged eight, wondered if the Shroud itself were a photograph. She and her mother discussed how a photograph was made, and they set out to see if that were the case. They started their studies using Jessica's Ken doll to see if they could duplicate the shadows cast on the face on the Shroud. This project, which continued on and off for over 30 years, resulted in sculptures made by reflecting light on the clay figure and carving out or adding in clay to reflect the negative image of the Shroud.
Newman's account of her and Jessica's attempt to solve the mystery of the Shroud is a fascinating tale. The development of the theory from the first impressions through to the actual painted image at the end of the text is clearly described with graphic images added to help the reader follow each process. I enjoyed the interplay of mother and daughter as they discovered the way the light source could be duplicated and the description of the sculpting process. This book is well-written and documents an illuminating project from its inception through to some startling conclusions. "Follow the Light, the Shroud's Revelations" is well worth reading and quite thought-provoking.
Recommend this book:
Instigators of the Apocalypse
Kevin Timothy O'Kane
2015 Bronze Medal
427 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
Sometimes, a superbly written and impeccably researched book is like a relationship: the more you invest, the more you get out of the experience. Instigators of the Apocalypse by Kevin Timothy O’Kane is a challenging, educational, and infinitely fascinating treatise that reads like the offspring of a historical fiction thriller and a doctoral dissertation in religious studies. O’Kane’s narrative focuses on the Book of Revelation and how it has been misinterpreted throughout history to foment war and strife. Beginning with the martyrdom of Ignatius in the second century AD and continuing through to present-day Islamic terrorism, O’Kane recasts known historical events in scholarly fashion and overlays the template of the Book of Revelation to make a comprehensive and persuasive argument that popular interpretations are flawed and that these misinterpretations of the Book of Revelation have been instrumental in undermining the ideals of Western civilization.
Kevin Timothy O’Kane possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of history and the sweeping mastery of church doctrine normally reserved for world religious leaders - a rare combination which can only be achieved through a lifetime of dedicated, purposeful study. What is even more remarkable is his gift for expressing complex, multi-layered relationships between fact and theory with a straightforward simplicity that renders them accessible to everyday readers. In plain, clearly sequenced steps, O’Kane codifies and clarifies major events in religious history and their relevance to current events as their dynamics play out through the ages and through the lens of revelations, misinterpreted: “The despots of the past and present are merely forerunners of the Antichrist who is yet to come. These tyrants witness to the reality of the future Antichrist but never accomplish his role completely.”
For those willing to pay close attention, Instigators of the Apocalypse by Kevin Timothy O’Kane has a great deal to teach. O’Kane’s wake-up call for a complacent world is great literature, prophecy and popular fiction all blended together to create a unique and compelling "end of days” narrative, both fascinating and foreboding.
Recommend this book:
Do It Better
Twelve Sexual Routines and Principles You Wish You Knew
Sarah Harris,Jeff Harris
2015 Silver Medal
184 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
Do It Better: Twelve Sexual Routines and Principles You Wish You Knew by Sarah Harris and Jeff Harris is a book for those readers who want to enjoy sex and make the most of their sexuality, thereby making it one of the joyous aspects of their life. The most fulfilled and experienced individual can also learn from this book and make their sex life better. The male and female views about the principles that govern great sex are covered in the book, inspiring couples and taking their sex life to a different level altogether. The sexual lessons and routines that can boost any couple's love life are indeed inspirational and can easily be put into practice.
This book will make readers look into their sex lives and work toward making it healthy and fulfilling. Marriages fail for different reasons. Sex is one of the things that can bring frustration or joy, depending on how two people are comfortable with each other during sex. The book speaks about routines and principles to improve one's sex life. The simple writing style makes it easy to comprehend and the tips and advice in the book are practical and can be practiced easily. This book is a must-read for all married couples, and the tips in the book are also helpful for counselors and therapists to incorporate into their sessions. It's a book worth owning in one's personal collection for a better sex life, thereby leading to more intimacy between the couple.
Recommend this book:
Organizing You
Finding Your Spiritual Clutter and Using Organization to Clear It Out
Shannon Upton
2014 Bronze Medal
264 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
Is your mind as full of clutter as things in your home? Would you love for your home to run smoothly and peacefully? Then Shannon Upton has the answers for you in her new book, Organizing You. Following the help Shannon has for each of us in this book, your mind and spirit can be free of the clutter that is always lurking there. She weaves unique organizational skills and techniques along with personal stories and the scriptures to strengthen your faith as you live your everyday life. I really enjoyed Shannon Upton’s delightful approach in writing this valuable book. She begins with organizing your home and spirit, goes to your goals, chores, organizing fun family times, your ideas, and your relationships. She pretty much tackles every aspect of your life, and she does it in a fun and enjoyable way.
This book is very well organized and formatted. Throughout the entire book, you will find scripture verses to help reinforce what you are reading. At the end of the chapters, there is a section called Giving Thoughts to Your Ways, which really made me think about what I read in each chapter, and about how I can be better organized in my life. My organizational skills are horrible, so I found several things in this book that would help me. The first thing I plan to try is a daily planner. Ms. Upton gives a lot of helpful tips and encouragement for having a daily planner, so I am excited to try this idea. I really want to encourage you to pick up a copy of this wonderful book. It has really helped me in better organizing my time and my spiritual life. You will be delightfully pleased with what you find here.
Recommend this book:
Gently Awakened
The Influence of Faith on Your Artistic Journey
Sara Joseph
2014 Gold Medal
255 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
Is it even possible to be a Christian artist and thrive? In “Gently Awakened,” by Sara Joseph, you’ll come to understand that it is impossible not to. Sara shows how the scriptures not only bring us to salvation, but direct us toward the meaning in our lives. Her illustration, taken from the book of Jeremiah, concerning the “good figs” sets the stage for creating an understanding of our need to bear the fruit that we were created to bear. She shows how Satan often tries to use the same tricks he has always used in order to derail our efforts, because by bearing our fruit we become more like our creator. Sara gives practical applications of the scriptures to help you commit to using your art in order to bear witness of Christ rather than hiding it under a bushel or abandoning it altogether. Through surrendering to your purpose in Christ, she shows how the miracles which seem to be distant and ancient stories can become a reality and the abundance which comes from God’s bounty is ours. Her book is illustrated with her own works of art throughout as a testimony to her commitment to the calling which God has placed upon her.
Sara Joseph touched a deep spot within me through “Gently Awakened.” Although I have already taken steps toward the transformation to a full time writer and novelist, there have been times that I have wondered if I am truly following the path which 40 years of faith has set before me. I have turned away from that path time and time again as I have pursued “making a living.” Sara very gently allowed me to see that the seasons of my art are moving forward, just like the seasons of the fig tree from planting, cultivating, blossoming and bearing fruit come through time as the tree is tended. Honest, inspiring and practical; “Gently Awakened” is essential reading for artists who are seeking God’s guidance for their vocation.
Recommend this book:
The Ten Commandments
Ancient Words - Timeless Truth
J. Rodman Williams
2013 Honorable Mention
165 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
The Ten Commandments: Ancient Words - Timeless Truth by J. Rodman Williams is an in-depth look at the Ten Commandments that will deepen one’s understanding of these timeless laws. The text from the Bible containing the Ten Commandments is shared at the beginning of the book. Following this is an introduction and discussion about how this text has historically been a unifying force among religions. The Ten Commandments represent moral laws that are accepted in all religions. Each Commandment is discussed and analyzed. At the end of each chapter, there is an empty page included for the reader to write personal notes and meditations.
This is a fantastic read. Because it is not geared specifically to one particular religion, this is a book that anyone from any religious background could pick up, read, and enjoy, as well as deepen their knowledge of the Ten Commandments. This is not a book to rush through as a quick, easy read; this is a book that you will want to take your time over. There is a lot to absorb and think about in order to really experience some spiritual growth in your life. I love that there are blank pages included at the end of each chapter as this is a book that will really encourage deep thinking and further discussions with others in your religious circle.
Recommend this book:
Financial Empowerment
Realign Your Finances to God's Will
Pamela Carmichael
2013 Silver Medal
288 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
Pamela V. Carmichael, author of “Financial Empowerment: Realign Your Finances to God’s Will,” says that riches and righteousness go together. For those Christians that erroneously believe they must be content to serve the Lord in an impoverished state, Carmichael provides numerous teachings of the Bible about hard work and its inevitable results: financial wealth. Before it became today’s entrepreneurial buzz word, God’s Word described Multiple Streams of Income demonstrated by the virtuous woman in Prov. 31:10 - 31. Matt. 25:29 tells us that those who have money will receive more - money attracts money. Carmichael advises us to discover our calling so that we may use our God-given talents in our work. She also advises us to keep it real (realistic goals) and seek encouragement in the Lord. Readers will have their minds renewed and their finances restored.
As a reviewer of numerous Christian publications, I can attest that “Financial Empowerment” is exceptional. Carmichael’s 27 years of Christian service echoes page after page. I was impressed with the depth and breadth that she lovingly demonstrated about specific areas, e.g., God’s assignment of work, leaving an inheritance and using your money to help others. This is the author’s first book but she should consider additional outlets, e.g., training manual, workbooks or the development of a series. Carmichael is a financial services professional and she has a blog – Live Out Loud: Success by God’s Word at http://pamelavcarmichael.com. “Financial Empowerment” is highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
God Light
Sunlight Sonlight
Robert Lloyd Russell
2013 Gold Medal
310 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
Apostle John’s statement in I John 1:5, “God Is Light”, intrigued this author enough to start questioning just what John really meant by these three words. Having studied physical light, Robert Russell started to understand that some of the characteristics of physical light help us to understand God’s nature and give us new meaning to the phrase in I John. Therefore Russell writes this book giving us parallels between natural physical light and spiritual light to help us understand what the real meaning of this three-word phrase is. "God is Light" is chock-full of information about how God is Light. It is in three parts: 'Sunlight Sonlight Attributes', showing us the character of God; 'Sunlight Sonlight of the World', an overview of light in scriptures; and 'Sunlight Sonlight Interactions', application to what we have learned. I have heard this phrase all of my life, and I never dreamed of it being so involved and never bothered to know what this is all about.
This book is very well-written and formatted. At the end of each chapter, the Sunlight\Sonlight parallels are explained, and there is a Think and Grow section with a few questions to answer. "God Light" could easily be used as a personal Bible study, or a study for small groups or Sunday school class. Though there is a lot of information, on account of the way the book is written, it is easy to read and understand. Each chapter is pretty short so that it can be read and discussed in one sitting. I highly recommend "God Light" to help with any type of Bible study.
Recommend this book:
The Pregnant Pause of Grief
The First Trimester of Widowhood
Brenda J Wood
2013 Finalist
194 Pages
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Christian - Non-Fiction
Brenda Wood’s latest publication, "the Pregnant Pause of Grief", takes the reader on a journey to understanding the emptiness and loneliness of grief. In finding out why she feels the way she does, Brenda had to begin to take the first steps into her new life. As you read you will feel her immense struggle to endure each day, as she attempts to recognize who she is and what she has to do, in this new role. Perhaps, like Brenda, you have become single after years of experiencing a role within a happy marriage or partnership. Determining how you will survive the deep, dark loneliness is one of the first new steps you will take, even though you would prefer not to be in such a painful position. Life keeps moving on with an unrelenting urging. Folks will tell you ‘to get on with your life’ or ‘how long will you keep up this crying’? Why can’t they feel what you are feeling? It is so much easier to give advice than to try to understand the inner turmoil and anxiety of a bereaved person’s anguish. When you find yourself in the role of widow or widower, or loss through separation, divorce or even job loss, you too will experience a gambit of emotions normally hidden from view.
Reading this book will certainly cause you to confront life with a set of different goals and values as you start to discover the new you. As it is humble yet gut-wrenching with the humor for which Brenda is known, you can at least relate to the roller-coaster ride of being alone and starting over. Just as Brenda did and continues to do, you will discover that life goes on regardless of you and your situation and you have to come to the point of ‘jumping back on the band wagon’ of life and get on with it, too. Well done, Brenda!