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:
Infinite Sea of Stars
Poetry to open the heart & wake the inner Divine
Shannon Crossman

2023 Finalist
156 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

Infinite Sea of Stars is an inspirational poetry collection by Shannon Crossman. Through her combination of free verse stanzas and poetic storytelling, Crossman weaves some beautiful poems that delve into the wants, needs, and desires of the human heart. These poems encourage readers to let go of the shackles of the limitations that bind them and instead embrace one's vulnerabilities to gain a better understanding of themselves. Release the prisons of anger, rage, and shame that you've constructed in the very cells of your being. Surrender yourself in times of sadness, and learn to love and share it freely to forge a connection with the Divine. Avoid self-doubt and take a leap of faith to cross the chasm of emptiness and reach your Beloved.
Shannon Crossman's poems have a soothing effect on your mind as her mesmerizing verses act as a healing balm for your soul. Infinite Sea of Stars is a collection that will help you get a better understanding of your place in this universe as you will gain the ability to perceive and rise above your flaws by embracing and acknowledging them through love. These poems appeal to the resilient spirit of humans, which helps us navigate the rigors of life and work toward fulfilling our inner potential. With the hectic nature of modern life and the uber-competitive work environment of the 21st century, books like this are a welcome reminder of the most important aspects of life. An inspiring piece of work that I will gladly recommend.
Recommend this book:
Realms of My Soul II
A Liberating Path
Lali A. Love

2023 Honorable Mention
237 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

Realms of My Soul II by Lali. A. Love is an enthralling collection of intimate poems. These poems explore the various facets of the human condition, searching for ways we can better ourselves. "Warriors of Light" tells the story of a person who was lost in darkness and found a way to light by accepting and embracing themselves for who they are. "Love Heals" is a celebration of love as a force of nature that has the power to heal, inspire, and bring us all together. "A Harsh Reality" sheds light on how childhood trauma manifests itself and seeps into other phases of a person's life well into adulthood. "Identity Unmasked" is about the search for one's true identity by removing the outer layers of your persona that hide your inner self.
Using a diverse range of styles and structural organization, Lali A. Love presents an absorbing poetry collection that is thematically rich and emotionally resonant. Realms of My Soul II is a personable collection of poems that delve into the themes of self-love, growth, forgiveness, letting go, and much more. Love's poetry collection is ambitious and has a broad scope, seamlessly switching styles and tones with sonnets, haiku, and free verse that ensures poetry readers of varied tastes will find something to engage with. Despite the overlapping themes and narrative, each poem feels unique and powerful. One that particularly stood out to me was "Co-dependency," which focuses on how codependent relationships sometimes make people forget their self-worth. Overall, a riveting collection for poetry lovers.
Recommend this book:
Overcast
Michael Froilan

2023 Bronze Medal
143 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

Overcast by Michael Froilan is a collection of poems covering several topics. The theme of self-love and acceptance is prevalent throughout the book. Society and people around us are always trying to make us fit in, but the author emphasizes the power of being self-aware. We all make mistakes and get depressed. The poems talk about these topics as well. They let us know that we are not alone and that the trials and tribulations we pass through are there to make us stronger. The author reminds the reader of a High Being watching over us, and that all will be well in the end.
These poems will arouse your emotions and make you think about life, love, relationships, and beliefs. I loved the simplicity of the words used, which does not in any way detract from the impact of their messages. The poems flow perfectly into the next chapter and make the collection the author's emotional life story. The author paints beautiful scenery with each poem. The imagery he uses is impeccable and makes you think you are there, sharing all his emotions with him. This is a great writing skill. The author showed vulnerability in expressing his emotions, and I applaud him for this wonderful work. Depression is a sensitive topic to tackle and present, but Michael Froilan offered his experiences and thoughts on the matter gracefully. I recommend this book to people who love reading poetry that evokes their feelings. I would also recommend Overcast to people who are going through tough times and need guidance.
Recommend this book:
Petals
Anna Casamento Arrigo

2023 Silver Medal
195 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

It is said that the pen is mightier than the sword and this is so true for Petals by Anna Casamento Arrigo. Through this collection of poems and songs, Arrigo speaks of the highs and lows of life that we all encounter at one point or another. Each individual encounters various hardships throughout their life as well as many forms of happiness. Arrigo displays a true moment of vulnerability through these heartfelt poems.
Petals by Anna Casamento Arrigo is going to be one of those books that I will remember and go back to from time to time just to experience the wave of emotions all over again. Arrigo takes us on a journey with this collection through various stages of life and through many instances of hardship. The poems are so eloquently written and so full of feeling, drawing out the rawest emotions from you as the reader. There is something about the way in which Arrigo composes her stanza and the way each word within the poem is so purposefully written. It’s as if she poured her heart into every single word and, through that, we see the resulting artistic composition of poetry. So many times I found myself moved and even reread a few poems that stood out to me. I truly think that any lover of poetry should take the time to read through this collection because they will not be disappointed. I enjoyed every poem in this book and I would be happy to read any other works from this author.
Recommend this book:
Reveal Yourself
The Best Version Of You Is Looking Right Through Your Eyes
Matthew Lawrence Scigousky

2023 Gold Medal
163 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

Reveal Yourself is a book of poetry by Matthew Lawrence Scigousky. The author expresses his desire to inspire and motivate others and relates poems with themes of mindfulness, positivity, growth, patience, and energy. Scigousky’s poems are free-flowing and use enjambment. The author’s words are inclusive and have a common idea of positivity in the face of adversity. Verses without strict meter and rhyme allow readers more freedom for self-discovery, and Scigousky leaves a special message for them at the end of his book.
It’s impossible to fully absorb the words in Matthew Lawrence Scigousky’s poems without at least one of them resonating deeply. The poetry is inspiring, and the author speaks to his readers on a deeper level, lifting up others with his poems and writings. His work encourages readers to focus on making decisions that will yield a better version of themselves but also to help others if they are in need. The use of enjambment may be difficult for some readers, but Scigousky uses it to strengthen his lines, and as a result, his points are more easily digested and free of restrictions. It speeds up the reading, and readers may feel as if Scigousky is calling them to immediate action. The author inspires readers with powerful affirmations and encourages them to make the necessary steps to alter anything negative in their lives. Reveal Yourself is a good book for any reader who is ready to take a step into a life of harmony and affirmative willingness.
Recommend this book:
Life Interrupted
A Journey Through Endometriosis, Chronic Pain & Self-Discovery
D.L. Heather

2022 Finalist
103 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

Life Interrupted by D.L. Heather is a beautiful collection of powerful and moving poems dealing with illness, pain and healing. After suffering with agonizing pain for 25 years, author D.L. Heather finally discovered that she had adenomyosis and stage 4 endometriosis. For years she had been prescribed painkillers and told that there was nothing wrong and that the pain was all in the mind. This book sheds light on the need for people in the medical profession to recognize the experiences of women who are dismissed or incorrectly diagnosed. D.L. Heather shares her innermost thoughts and feelings as she is shoved from one ignorant medical “expert” to another without diagnosis while she searches for answers and solutions to end her agony. If only they would listen to what she says.
Life Interrupted by D.L. Heather is an incredible story told through poetry and beautifully created illustrations. For years, the author felt obliged to hide her acute pain, the type of pain that words cannot describe but D.L. Heather has captured her feelings and emotions perfectly. “The beast within her never giving up flaring through her broken body ripping apart her insides.” Every type of pain treatment that exists has been tried, tested, and found to be inadequate. We can only hope that a solution has been found to ease her pain and suffering permanently. This book is a must-read for everyone, especially those in the medical profession who only know what they learned at medical school. This book should be added to the curriculum. All round, a fantastic book, well written and illustrated.
Recommend this book:
A Speckled Stone
Thirty-one Poems for Seekers
Karen Stuth

2022 Honorable Mention
80 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

Karen Stuth writes about a wide variety of topics in a positive way. Her poems invite reflection on personal issues based on her experiences. She talks about appreciating the small but precious moments that life gives us. There are simple details in our days that we often devalue by having them at hand. That is why A Speckled Stone focuses on reminding us of the good and bad that we experience in our daily lives. Poetry also motivates us to live new experiences. Karen delves into feelings and emotions, looking for an interpretation of concepts such as kindness. A Speckled Stone is perfect for spending time thinking about ourselves and meditating on life's situations.
I liked the simplicity with which Karen Stuth talks about various topics. She uses clear language, and her perspective is easy to assimilate. That's why this poetry is suitable for enjoying a moment with ourselves. A Speckled Stone encourages personal development through empathy and emotional language. Empathy is not only about understanding feelings; rather, it is also about accepting others' differences. Learning to accept ourselves is very important, and Karen talks about this. Forgiveness is necessary for us to agree to our memories of the past. Not all our memories are pleasant, but with forgiveness and acceptance, we can overcome the recurring ideas that keep us stuck in the past. A Speckled Stone will inspire many people to become their best selves.
Recommend this book:
I Look To The Mourning Sky
A Book of Poems and Writing Prompts for the Grieving Heart
Liz Newman

2022 Bronze Medal
114 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

I Look To The Mourning Sky: A Book of Poems and Writing Prompts for the Grieving Heart, by Liz Newman, could be the balm the mourning soul needs. Loss can come without warning, or it can come with the knowledge that it is going to happen, but either way, grief is a life-changing experience that we've all had before. Some grieve with more difficulty than others and seek ways to cope better. This volume of poems can help heal wounds and make some sense of loss and the grieving process. Sometimes when you're in the thick of it, you think you're by yourself, but these poems show the connection all mourners share.
Newman's poignant, emotional poems can touch the sadness that the grieving person is going through. But not only that, she invites readers to share their own bereavement by writing about them, aided by writing prompts that she provides at the end. One example of a prompt is called "Heart Check", which asks readers to examine their hearts and emotions on a given day and make note of them to increase awareness and get in touch with your feelings. Expressing grief via the written word can be tremendously helpful and healthy. Poetry can be cathartic, a shared experience, a way to process emotions that you yourself can't even put into words. Grieving has to occur at your own pace, and this book of poetry helps you do that.
To say that Newman's poetry also serves as a self-help tool would not be a stretch. But there is a balance in the poems--some are sad, while others are comforting and encouraging. There are a lot of poetry books you can pass on to others as gifts, but this one can actually help someone else if you do. Readers will be moved by selections such as the beautiful "I've Held Love Tightly", and encouraged by the poignant "An Old Bible". Wherever you are on your grief journey, take I Look To The Mourning Sky: A Book of Poems and Writing Prompts for the Grieving Heart by Liz Newman.
Recommend this book:
Healing Yesterday's Tears
An Inspiring Poetry Book about Overcoming Emotion and Discovering Love of Self
Kyli Santiago

2022 Silver Medal
79 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

Healing Yesterday's Tears by Kyli Santiago is an inspiring poetry book about overcoming emotional baggage and discovering self-love. Using her own life as her muse, Kyli Santiago pens beautifully crafted poems that draw inspiration from some of the darkest moments in her life. Kyli had a rough childhood and suffered from bouts of chronic depression all her life. But she always strove toward the light and used her poetry as a part of the healing process. There is some heavy subject matter used in the narrative, such as depression, suicide, rape, emotional abuse, etc. However, Kyli also infuses themes of hope, love, inner strength, and healing into her poems that leave you with a sense of optimism about the future.
Thematically rich and narratively poignant, Healing Yesterday's Tears is a must-read for poetry lovers as well as for readers who have struggled with mental health issues or suffered through abusive relationships. Kyli Santiago bares her soul in a mesmerizing collection of poems that make you ponder long after you've finished reading them. Kyli uses poetry as a form of therapy -- a sort of meditation -- releasing all of her pent-up anger and pain through these poetic verses. Being in abusive relationships destroys one's self-esteem. Through these poems, Kyli aims to help people discover self-love and encourages them to practice self-preservation. If you're looking for some moving introspective poetry to delve into, I highly recommend Healing Yesterday's Tears.
Recommend this book:
A Necessary Explosion
Collected Poems
Dan Burns

2022 Gold Medal
152 Pages
Check current price
Poetry - Inspirational

No literary genre can reach the heart of a reader with the same intensity as poetry, and if the poet is as inspired as Dan Burns, the result is outstanding. Already an established writer, Burns presents A Necessary Explosion, his first poetic collection, which originated from his need to write down the thoughts that crowd his mind. Gathering poems written over a span of 15 years, A Necessary Explosion is a must-read for anyone who looks for long and short poems that deal with a variety of themes such as love, music, and life. The result is one of the finest collections that lovers of poetry can find.
A Necessary Explosion is one of those poetic collections that speaks directly to the reader's heart. I felt as if the poet was talking to me as I read many of the poems. At times, I even thought that I, too, had thoughts similar to those expressed by Burns through his words. I liked how he managed to create impressive poems from common episodes of everyday life, thus transfiguring the reality we all know. I also enjoyed the longer poems, especially for their stories and the themes they develop. As a first poem collection, A Necessary Explosion made a more than positive impression on me, and I admit I had a very good time reading it. I hope I will read more of Burns' poems in the future, and in the meanwhile, I recommend this collection to every lover of poetry.
