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:
The Long and Whining Road
Simeon Courtie
2013 Gold Medal
335 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
"The Long and Whining Road" by Simeon Courtie is one of the best books I’ve read in recent years. The story of how a family of five threw caution to the wind and launched into a trip around the world, busking Beatles beats for UNICEF while exploring the culture and meeting the people of the countries they travel to had me laughing out loud at almost every page. Simeon, his wife Jill, and their daughters Edie, Bethan and Ella share their experiences as they come face to face with different cultures, peoples and situations while traveling on their reliable (most of the time) VW "Penny."
Dry English humor and puns aplenty await the reader lucky enough to come across this book. Beatles references dot each chapter, interspersed with fun facts that will make anyone bit by the travel bug smile in amusement. The book takes readers to the back alleys of India, to the marvels of Europe and to the dangers of Syria. It takes them to shark-infested waters, unreliable garages and warm, welcoming strangers’ homes. It is a rare book that makes readers want to revel in every little detail of each and every page. Simon Courtie is a great narrator, employing numerous tiny devices to make the reader actually feel like they are part of the Beatnik Beatles. The generosity of the people the Courtie’s encountered during their adventure is inspiring. Weird housemates and corrupt officials are turned into funny experiences. No author can ask for a better material to craft a book from and perhaps no other author can take such experiences and make it as interesting and as inspiring to read. The book is a mosaic of many things, both beautiful and ugly, but I what I took away from reading it is that it doesn't matter where you are, or what’s happening around you; what matters is that you’re with friends and family.
Recommend this book:
Mindy's Musings
Mindy Levy
2013 Silver Medal
64 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
Mindy Levy offers readers a candid look at her family. She readily admits that there are two important F words in her life, Food and Family. Mindy’s family is Jewish. Even though I had read about some of the Jewish holidays and traditions, reading this book quickly showed me how much I did not know. Every event seems to surround food. Mommom is Mindy’s grandmother; when she was extremely hungry she would say, “I’m not very hungry” and then she would eat everything in sight. Mindy’s mother collects a keepsake from the table when they eat out: it could be a butter knife, salt and pepper shakers or the small coffee creamer. Laughter seems to be the bond that cemented her family together. It is amazing how laughter can make a difference in a family. When Sarah accidentally threw her two diamond rings down the garbage chute she hysterically called Mindy for help. After Mindy found the rings Sarah laughed hysterically, admitting that she would not have done the same for Mindy. Life as a step-mother is even funnier.
This book will have readers laughing out loud. I have only shared a few of the antics Mindy writes about. Life often takes us by surprise; we can become upset or we can laugh. I prefer Mindy’s method for handling life in general. Mindy and her whole family laugh and they have plenty to laugh about. "Mindy’s Musings" is an enchanting read. There are only 63 pages in this book but each page is filled with real life happenings that will keep the reader smiling if not laughing. Author Mindy Levy has a lovely manner of storytelling.
Recommend this book:
Swygert
Growing Up in the Middle of Nowhere in a Little Town Nobody Ever Heard Of
Jeffrey Harold Utterback
2012 Finalist
208 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
Wow! The memories of growing up in a town where there are only a few houses scattered around, a cemetery, a church and maybe a country story or a junkyard? Well, author Jeffrey Utterback grew up in a small town in the middle of nowhere in Swygert, Illinois, a small town where the population was under one hundred. Can you imagine going to a school with only twenty-two students in all, from Kindergarten to sixth grade? That could be really good, or it could be really bad. In his book “Swygert,” Jeffrey Utterback gives us a taste of what it was like growing up in his small town. And he does it in a collection of stories about things that happened in his life. If you grew up in a small community, you will laugh and cry at the heartwarming memories this author brings to life.
Having grown up in a small town, I loved reading this book because it brought back so many memories. Jeffrey Utterback is a gifted story teller and you will find yourself amazed at the way he takes us on a journey back to his childhood years. Like burning trash outside? Kids today would cringe at that. Along with the 'Garbage' story, my other favorites were the 'Christmas Junkie and Roasting Weenies', and of course the 'Red Neck 4H club'. I highly recommend this book for just a good, fun and clean read. Sometimes it is great to find a book like this to read that will cause you to forget about the fast pace of life for just a little while. Why not grab a copy and enjoy?
Recommend this book:
101 Reasons to Leave New York
Howard Jordan, Jr.
2012 Gold Medal
72 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
"101 Reasons to Leave New York" by Howard Jordan, Jr., is a funny, true and very accurate picture of life in the city. It is a very wonderful book. I am a proud native-born New Yorker”. I left New York many years ago and I am now living in the good old south country of Mississippi, but am still guilty of being a New Yorker at heart. This book brought me home for a little while. It made me smile, made me shake my head in agreement and made me feel good. Mr. Jordan has given us 101 reasons that make New York what it is with explanations and details that hit the nail right on the head. Each of the 101 reasons to leave New York is a good reason to leave but also a great reason to stay. My personal favorite No. 65 is something I find myself saying at least once a day and no one but another New Yorker will understand and accept it without taking offense. New York is a tough place and “101 Reasons” points out the beat of the city.
This is a book for anyone who is interested in what makes New York tic. It is a great book for anyone who dreams of moving to the Big Apple. If you have left the Big Apple it is a special remembrance of what you left behind. Howard Jordan has written an entertaining book with touches of humor, truth and love for the wonderful place known as the best city in the world – New York. “101 Reasons to Leave New York” is a five star winner. It is a great book to read out loud on a long car trip. It is a great book to read on a dreary rainy day to put some sunshine in the room. Howard Jordan has written a book that everyone who ever heard anything about New York will love.
Recommend this book:
Life on Grayson Island
Turtles, Snakes, Dogs and Flakes. Seven years in the land of OZ
E R Champion
2012 Finalist
222 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
"Life on Grayson Island" by E.R. Champion is based on true events and real characters and places although names have been changed for obvious reasons. It is the story of one gated community that thought they could do nothing wrong in the eyes of the law. As we follow the life of one special policeman thoughout the seven years he worked for the force we meet up with some hilarious characters and happenings. When they thought it was teenagers tossing lawn furniture into swimming pools they soon found out it was different, but they never seem to haul them into jail. From Fourth of July parties to teenagers having drinking parties out on the causeway, and the Yacht Club’s Regatta to removing snakes or turtles from out of harm’s way, life was never very dull on Grayson Island.
I found this book to be a hilarious read and managed to finish it in one evening. The characters in their own way lend much to the book. Of course with the name change we have the different police chiefs, Uno, Dos, and Treys. Remember that names have been changed to protect those who were at fault. The antics that the characters carried on reminded me of a rich gated Mayberry community and the Special Policeman of Andy. If you are looking to read a novel then this is not the book for you. The book is written as if the author is sitting with you on your front porch, with a cup of coffee in hand and discussing the happenings that went on. They say that laughter is the best medicine and I have to agree that even if you don’t laugh out loud, you will get a giggle or even a smile. The book is refreshing, and I would recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Ridiculous
The Mindful Nonsense of Ricky’s Brain
Ricky Tsang
2012 Honorable Mention
422 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
Ricky Tsang’s book is a journey into a brilliant mind: the reader will find humor (dark/bawdy and/or hilarious), love, tenderness, truth and fantasy within its pages.
Diagnosed with Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy at age seven, Ricky has witnessed the gradual wasting of his muscles as a result of this cruel, incurable disease. When he lost the use of his hands, he turned to writing (with the aid of his computer) to express himself. This book is a result of several years of posts on his popular blog.
I enjoyed his original and creative style, and because of his humor and sense of the ridiculous, the reader does not read about his life with pity but with interest and respect. Though many of his essays are philosophical or humorous, an occasional mention of incompetent nurses (on whom he must depend for every physical need) illustrates the fragility of his daily existence. He finds daily support from his dedicated family, of whom he writes with great love and admiration.
He also writes with great tenderness of love, especially romantic love, and criticizes our cultural obsession with beauty; in a series of essays dedicated to women of every nationality and culture, he expounds upon their particular qualities that he finds beautiful and encourages them to celebrate these features, while expressing his great admiration for them.
This is a touching and intriguing book; no one label can describe this multifaceted look into the genius of Ricky Tsang’s mind. I hope he continues to blog and publish, as his is a most original voice.
Recommend this book:
A Piece of Cake
Linda S Amstutz
2011 Bronze Medal
128 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
A Piece of Cake by Linda S. Amstutz is a collection of her essays. The topics vary; each one will have you rolling on the floor in laughter. She begins her book with "My Last Party" in which she plans her own funeral. I could relate to the topic because I've also planned my funeral. After reading the wonderful celebration she has planned, I may have to borrow a few of her ideas and incorporate them into my plans!
"The Five Day Rule" is filled with advice and wisdom for the host and guest. Personally I think three days should be the limit for a visit. Have you ever heard of a hotel? Hotels strengthen friendships.
Amstutz tackles a variety of topics and shares her opinion of each: from taxes, to the Junior League holiday sale, to dreams, and imaginary friends.
Have you ever daydreamed about winning the lottery? Amstutz shares her plans for the cash. I like this essay. I've often thought of what I'd spend the money on, who I'd share it with and how life would be different. Of course you have to first buy a lottery ticket.
No one could possibly read Linda Amstutz's essays and not laugh. Her style is conversational. Her tone is humorous. I found I had a lot in common with her. This is a must read book. I look forward to reading more of Amstutz's work.
Recommend this book:
Tales Mark Twain Would Have Loved to Steal
Glenn Wasson
2009 Gold Medal
222 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
Glenn Wasson transports readers back in time to the days of the Gold Rush. He shares tales that could very well be true if a bit exaggerated. A large nugget was stolen and swallowed; however, it came out all right in the end. Wasson continues by sharing the stories of Black Bart a famous bandit. There are many tall tales in Tales Mark Twain Would Have Loved To Steal. Glenn Wasson shares a summary of the tale and adds his poetry and art work to compliment the story.
The second section of this has a variety of amusing stories. My favorites include tall tales that featured a rabbit and a very intelligent mouse. Wasson is not afraid to laugh at himself hence this line from a poem titled The Lonely Christmas Tree, “Poems are written by fools like me.”
Tales Mark Twain Would Have Loved to Steal is hilarious. Wasson has a grand sense of humor. His tall tales are sure to please the most discriminating reader. I commend Wasson for not using vulgarity. Too often authors think they are not funny unless they are vulgar. Well done Colonel Glenn Wasson aka Black Bart.
Recommend this book:
The Sweet Smell of ASH in the Morning
A funnier look at Atascadero State Hospital through the ramblings of a burnt out Psychiatric Technician
John Crippen
2009 Honorable Mention
52 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
John Crippen begins his book by describing the take down. When a patient becomes violent the staff must restrain him/her to prevent injury. It takes several people to perform this procedure. Crippen humorously describes the dangers, these include: a worker with extremely bad breath, a patient capable of passing gas upon will, and a patient capable of projectile.
The section titled Survival Guide 101 is hilarious. My favorite one had to do with a laser pointer.
He tells us about a kid that thought he was raised by hippos and trained by Bruce Lee. There was a patient that rolled up little balls of feces and placed them on the window sill. There are a lot of stories about urine and feces.
The author of this book worked in the Atascadero State Hospital in California for of 13 years. In The Smell of Sweet Ash In The Morning he shares some of his experiences of working with the mentally ill. He warns readers that many of his tales are sarcastic. Those working in the mental health profession face bizarre situations each day. They face the angry and belligerent each day. Like the author if they did not find a way to laugh about it, they too would end of in the facility.
Because I’ve had just a little experience with someone who is mentally ill I can relate to much of this book. Readers will laugh at his stories. At 52 pages it is a short humorous read. Some people may find it offensive, I didn’t.
Recommend this book:
My Momma Raised Ugly Children...Not Stupid Ones
The Ruminations and Reminiscences of a Gentle Southern Man
Bud Wright
2009 Silver Medal
336 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
The title of this book caught my attention. I laughed just looking at the front cover. I had high expectations. Anyone that can come up with a title like this has to be humorous. Bud Wright shares his memories of childhood with readers. Wright spares no one in his recollections. He is hardest on himself. The characters of his boyhood come to life on the pages of My Momma Raised Ugly Children...Not Stupid Ones.
I expected laugh out loud humor and that’s what I got! My Momma Raised Ugly Children...Not Stupid Ones is funny. I really like this book. I always enjoy a look down memory lane. I look back at my own childhood and think how different it was from my child or grandchildren's life. Compared to the author I led a rather unexciting life.