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:
Lazy Creativity
The Art of Owning Your Creativity
Kyle Bernier
2022 Bronze Medal
226 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
You want to be creative, but it’s a different thing to get out of bed and start doing something. As your muse pokes you awake, sloth entices you with a soft pillow. What if there’s a way for these two creatures to get along? Author Kyle Bernier took a while to write Lazy Creativity: The Art of Owning Your Creativity, and the outcome of this endeavor is worth it. Here, creativity is his driving force to keep working, yet at the same time, he did it little by little, piece by piece, step by step—doing away with any unnecessary pressure. He guides you through a similar creative process, breaking down his book into sections that follow a linear creative process. From getting started to moving forward, you can focus on any topic that interests you since creativity doesn’t always operate in a linear process.
I personally like Kyle Bernier’s take on what he coins as Lazy Creativity. It took me a year to write a novella, and I was happy with its outcome. We all have our own concepts of creativity and our relationship with it varies. Bernier shares how he deals with it without any imposition for you to follow it. If you do choose to follow this guide, you will likely find it easier to deal with or tame your muse. The passion to create is something that you do not force. It must flow. And it will only do so if you take time to understand why and how creativity happens and in what manner it approaches you. Doing so allows you to find the energy to face it and do it each day. This is why this Lazy Creativity deserves your attention because it gives you a reason to get motivated in thinking, creating, and connecting in spite of life’s complexities that make you want to sit back and do nothing.
Recommend this book:
Starvin' Artist
Hunger for Success
Anthony Waldren
2022 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
On its surface Starvin' Artist: Hunger for Success is an inspirational memoir by graphic artist and businessman Anthony Waldren. On a deeper level, it’s a thoughtful, insightful, and reflective work of philosophy about life based on the lessons Waldren has learned. As a memoir, it’s impressive. A young boy falls asleep in class because gunshots keep him awake at night. His early exposure to business ethics and the search for prosperity are the drug dealers in his neighborhood. Yet he rises beyond them to find success through talent, intelligence, and diligence. As a book about philosophy, I find it even more impressive. Waldren is able to express life’s lessons in a comprehensible, almost guru-like manner, and there is something here of value for everyone.
In Starvin’ Artist, Anthony Waldren depicts a “real life” struggle that plays out in American streets every day. What is it that leads one child born into harsh conditions to succumb to a criminal way of life to acquire the wealth and prestige he desires and another to reject it? The one, it seems, proves highly adaptable to his surroundings, to surviving and even prospering in the violent “box” in which he lives. The other sees outside the “box” to another world. Through the stories of life experiences and the lessons they brought him, Anthony Waldren gives hope that we can climb out of one “box” and into another with persistence, toughmindedness, and the ability to learn from the lessons of life. This is an utterly amazing read. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Adjacent Possible
Evolve Your Art From Blank Canvas To Prolific Artist
Nancy Hillis
2022 Gold Medal
228 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
The Adjacent Possible: Evolve Your Art from Blank Canvas to Prolific Artist is a fascinating presentation on the science of artistic creativity by the psychiatrist and abstract artist Nancy Leigh Hillis, M.D. It is written with the stated purpose to “guide, nudge, and inspire” the reader to reach their fullest artistic expression by venturing into the adjacent possible. Dr. Hillis describes this as existing on the creative edge where every brushstroke or artistic expression reveals new possibilities which didn’t exist before. The inner journey of creativity is discussed, followed by topics such as tips for artists, mistakes even the pros make, traps artists face, and the paradox of creation including the value of ugly art. A link to a website and an invitation to join the Artists Journey community are also provided.
As someone who has admittedly produced a few pieces of ugly art, I have to say that in The Adjacent Possible, Dr. Nancy Leigh Hillis has hit a home run. As an engineer, I appreciated the references to science as she explored creativity and the role of attitude. “Art is an inside job,” she tells us. “Your inner landscape, your inner dialogue, your mindset is your most important asset because it affects everything.” It’s not the refining of artistic technique that will have the greatest impact on your creativity, but your willingness to experiment. The well-written narrative flows from one topic to another, using stories that are sprinkled throughout to convey the concepts that are beautifully presented. This book will challenge you to re-evaluate how you approach your creativity and artistic expression.
Recommend this book:
Ace of Arts
An Art Book
Isabel Scheck
2021 Finalist
140 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
Ace of Arts is a collection of artworks that depict the different sides of ace-spec identities, including demisexual and greysexual, among other a-spec identities within the LGBTQ+ community. They are mostly pictures of people, couples, animals, nature, and designs with vibrant and diverse colors. Most of the pictures don't have words, except the author's signature. However, some pictures have a few painted words, like "Ace and Part of the LGBTQIA+ community" and "Here, Queer, and Filled with Fear". Some patterns and words are repetitive, with different colors and identities acknowledged on each page. With eight years of experience in art and three years in digital art, Isabel Scheck presents 160 outstanding and gorgeous art pieces that were drawn by them from August 2020 to February 2021.
As every color and pattern is beautiful and unique in Ace of Arts, every a-spec and LGBTQ+ identity deserves to be acknowledged and respected as distinctive and beautiful. The way the colors and patterns combine to create a colorful and appealing picture suggests how these different identities can coexist to make up the full diverse experience of life. Love is represented as a pleasant, joyful experience through paintings of couples sharing and giving their unique selves to each other in serene and natural settings. I didn't know so many identities existed before reading Ace of Arts, but the experience of discovering something new every time I looked at the pictures showed me the value of being open to new experiences. I recommend Isabel Scheck's book to all as it enlightens readers about different ace-spec and LGBTQ+ identities and reveals that, no matter our identities, we are all humans who deserve love and respect.
Recommend this book:
Outsiders and Apparitions
Possessed Poems and Art for Family Picnics
Milan Sergent
2021 Honorable Mention
119 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
In Outsiders and Apparitions: Possessed Poems and Art for Family Picnics, we are introduced to an otherworldly and frenetic collection of poems written by Milan Sergent, the author of the Candlewicke 13 series. In this book, the author covers subjects like death, marginalization, and absurdity with unique surrealist paintings to go with each poem. They are unique and each tells a story that can stand alone, giving the reader a glimpse into the creative mind of the author.
This is the best book of poetry that I have read this year. I absolutely enjoyed the ingenious poetry that Sergent brought to life in this collection. The poems are fun and crazy, having a surreal feel to them. With witty and clever prose, each tells its own story. What I loved even more was the collection of paintings that accompanied each poem. They are gorgeous and really help as a visual aid to the poetry pieces. My favorites would have to be Magic Apples Grown By The Wrong Author Must Be Ignored, Questionable Extraterrestrials, Patty’s Wagon, and Ode To Genola. Each piece is different, yet has the same touch of morbidity that one finds intriguing. When you pair the poems with the art pieces, it’s a complete story brought to life which grabs readers' attention. Overall, I think Milan Sergent has created a masterpiece with Outsiders and Apparitions: Possessed Poems and Art for Family Picnics. It’s definitely a collection I would recommend. I can’t wait to read more of his work.
Recommend this book:
The National Parks
A Century of Grace
Karla K. Morton and Alan Birkelbach
2021 Silver Medal
320 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
The National Parks: A Century of Grace by Karla K. Morton and Alan Birkelbach is a fabulous collection of pictures, poems, and facts about the National Parks of America, which are extraordinary places where the beauty of the untouched wilderness can be experienced. Humans are always in search of finding meaning in Nature. The magnitude of what Nature offers can be felt through the pictures, descriptions, and poetry shared and will make readers aware of how blessed they are living close to the stunning beauty of natural wonders of nature in their lifetime. The two poets share their views on the seen and unseen beauty of the National Parks of America and take readers on a fascinating and adventurous journey to appreciate the offerings of nature.
The National Parks: A Century of Grace will encourage travelers to visit any one of these National Parks to experience the wonders of nature. The pictures and the poems capture the beauty of these National Parks, making it tangible to readers. 'Crater Lake Blue' is my favorite poem in the book, more so because I am fascinated by different shades of blue, and the poet, Karla, pulls readers into the beauty of the Crater Lake National Park and will leave them speechless. Alan Birkelbach captivates readers with his poem 'What We Abandon,' which makes the beauty of the Glacier National Park, Montana, and Canada palpable to readers. All the poems are unique in their own way as they speak about each one of the National Parks mentioned in the book. The approach to the topic is avante-garde and I liked the poets' poems on all the National Parks based on their perception of these places. This book will no doubt be re-read and also used to plan trips to any one of these National Parks.
Recommend this book:
Through A Sober Lens
A Photographer's Journey
Michael Blanchard
2021 Gold Medal
100 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
Through A Sober Lens: A Photographer’s Journey by Michael Blanchard is an exquisite collection of photographs and words that signal the author’s transformational journey and looking at the world with sobriety. The beauty that unfolds in front of the reader’s eyes gives them glimpses of the author’s catharsis from darkness to light and hope. The book is a fine blend of words and photographs that reveal the darker days of the author, which include his addiction and alcoholism, and give positive insights on his recovery. There are stories that reiterate the presence of love, faith, compassion, resilience, and empathy and his realization that challenges are part of life and growth is not possible in their absence. This memoir shares his experiences and is a good tool for readers who are looking to be free from their alcohol addiction.
Michael Blanchard’s photographic skills and aesthetic eye are a treat for readers and bring his creativity to the fore. The approach to reaching out to others to help them heal from their addictions is different and unique and that makes the book refreshingly original and unconventional. His words along with the pictures will influence many readers to change their perception of life and how to deal with their demons. The Affirmations in the Storm are good to use as a reminder to readers to see how far they have come from what they originally were. Through A Sober Lens is a good way of helping alcohol addicts to remove their shame which actually stops them from seeking help. The author’s spirituality, connection with nature, and his healing journey are motivating and inspiring. I enjoyed the presentation and his simple and clear narrative style makes it easy for readers to comprehend his words, incorporate them into their lives, and effect the changes they are looking for.
Recommend this book:
Before the Curtain Goes Up
India Blake Johnson
2020 Silver Medal
78 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
Before the Curtain Goes Up by India Blake Johnson is a fascinating book that captures the author's interest in theater, which also helped her develop a deep appreciation for small-town community and professional playhouses. The book speaks about the various and distinct operating ways of six small-town playhouses, thereby enabling the communities to experience the best of theater. There is nothing to beat the experience of sitting in a secluded and intimate theatre space, waiting for the curtain to rise. There is something very surreal and human about theater, mainly because it connects viewers with live performances.
Before the Curtain Goes Up captures the rawness, intimacy, and the true human experience of theater and the photographs shared by the author give readers the essence of preparation and the performances. The words and images will fascinate any theater lover and performer. The photographic journey through these six small-town playhouses in America reveals the preparation that goes on behind the scenes, the excitement, and the actors who travel deep within to find others. The pictures capture the important and critical moments of transformation and go through the universal process - applying makeup backstage, running lines with other actors or sometimes alone, memorizing the dialogues, etc.
India Blake Johnson captures the essence of theater through this unique book and encourages readers to look into the eyes of actors and feel the creative process. There are a lot of stories to be told and this book shows how theater connects everyone, the behind-the-scenes, and the sense of belonging that exists there like no other place. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the creativity in theater and the images took me to another dimension.
Recommend this book:
Tattle Tales
Tattoo Stories and Portraits
Brandy Isadora
2020 Gold Medal
160 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
Tattle Tales: Tattoo Stories and Portraits by Brandy Isadora showcases an appreciation for the art of tattooing and explores its impact on life and contemporary society. The author has always fancied getting a tattoo against the will of her mother, and she finally got her first tattoo while in college in her freshman year from a local tattooist. She started meeting people who were heavily tattooed while on tour with her band. In this book and in beautiful photography, she captures the art of the tattoo and presents characters with unique tattoo history and designs.
Tattle Tales: Tattoo Stories and Portraits by Brandy Isadora features interviews with a wide selection of characters, each with a unique background. Readers encounter characters like Michael, a school teacher; Larry, who is a music producer; Tillie, the retailer; the musician, James; Mel, the retailer; Janet, an inbound marketer, and many others, including models, personal trainers, and cosmetologists. Behind each tattoo is a story, a message for the beholder, and a world to explore. This book helps readers understand why some people get tattoos and how some tattoos reflect their backgrounds and stories. The story also uncovers how people look at those who tattoo. The author asks characters in the book to share their stories and she asks a unique question of each one. I enjoyed how the interviews reveal exciting journeys with their tattoos. This is a great book for readers who enjoy tattoos and art in general, filled with beautiful images and information on an art form that is increasingly becoming part of contemporary culture and an expression of identity.
Recommend this book:
The Art of the Living Mollusk
Charles E. Rawlings, M.D, J.D
2019 Finalist
166 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
Living mollusks are slowly disappearing due to environmental degradation and the destructive habits of human beings. The Art of the Living Mollusk by Charles E. Rawlings, MD, JD is a fabulous book that will delight readers who are dedicated to protecting the environment, the earth, and the ocean. This book is about the beautiful angles and curves of the mollusk and will raise awareness of how this living organism is much more than a dead shell. The author reveals the mystery of the creatures living underwater and gives readers a peek into their exclusive world. The book also gives a lot of interesting information about mollusks and their role in preserving the environment, their uniqueness, form, and color.
This book is a visual treat and the photos are clear and eye-catching. They teach readers about the family of mollusks, their beauty, and life. The topic is unique and will make readers aware of the creatures that exist underwater and realize the importance of protecting these creatures for the sake of the environment. The number of sea creatures discussed in The Art of the Living Mollusk is amazing and will leave readers awestruck by their beauty and contribution to the environment. The author weaves art, photography, and information together seamlessly, making it fascinating to readers. It is a good book to have in libraries as it can be used as reference material for projects and classroom discussions. This book will leave you wanting to learn more about the life that exists underwater and why it is important for the environment.