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 - Science/Technology
- 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
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Recommend this book:
The Verbal Bully
Brown Bear & Oofie Present
Masami S.C.

2023 Honorable Mention
44 Pages
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Children - General

The Verbal Bully is a title from The Brown Bear and Oofie series for young readers. Both written and illustrated by Masami S.C., the tale of The Verbal Bully deals with the harshness of a bully’s words. As Brown Bear celebrates the beautiful day outside, her best friend, Oofie, cries. Oofie tells Brown Bear that she is no longer permitted to play with the other dogs because she looks different. Brown Bear teaches Oofie that looks are of no consequence and that the best way to defeat a verbal bully is with a quick and clever retort or, better still, to ignore the bully completely. After Brown Bear’s encouraging words, Oofie finds herself smiling, determined to assert her confidence to all bullies in the future.
I was quite impressed by the powerful message that The Verbal Bully provides to the young children of today. Masami S.C. has produced a very empowering, uplifting book filled with wisdom and confidence-building, as well as bright and colorful illustrations which bring the story to life. My heart sank as I watched Oofie’s tears flow. Although it has been some decades since I was in school, bullying tends to not only interfere in the confidence of young people, but also of teenagers and adults. Bullies knock you down in order to make themselves feel better, yet they are showing the world how obnoxious, cowardly and sad they truly are. As Oofie takes back her confidence and feels strength coursing through her thanks to her friend, she finally feels empowered to confront the verbal bully when they next strike.
A glossary of words is included at the back of the book so that children can learn what the terms in the book mean. I like the positive and up-beat attitude in the dialogue of The Verbal Bully and recommend it to young readers aged 5-8 years. The Verbal Bully would also be ideally stocked in school libraries, social offices and health centers, so that children can learn that you do not need to sink to a bully’s level in order to overcome the hurt they cause.
Recommend this book:
Wild Thing and The Bagel
Erin L. Neal

2023 Finalist
46 Pages
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Children - General

Dogs are the most popular pets in the world. There are also a lot of things to learn from them. Erin L. Neal highlights this in Wild Thing and the Bagel. A chocolate Labrador describes his experience with his human parents, including how he was adopted and treated in their house. Soon after, a new dog named Bagel joins him. What will Wild Thing’s reaction be? Will he see this new dog as a threat? Will they get along or cause trouble for their owners? Wild Thing and the Bagel is a fable beautifully told by Erin L. Neal in which we are exposed to a typical day in a dog’s life from the dog’s perspective. The author uses her real-life experiences with her pets to tell this story. Angie Buckman wrote the foreword, which shares the author's love of pets and affirms the goal of this book, which is to learn from the lives of pets.
In several ways, Wild Thing and the Bagel is a one-of-a-kind book. One reason for this is telling the story through the dog’s narration. I enjoyed the storytelling style; it is easy to read and understand, especially with a first-person point of view. One can also learn positive values like love, patience, friendship, and companionship. Using characters from her own life, Erin L. Neal makes the story more relatable. The images that help tell the story are also beautifully done. I loved this story because it brings to our awareness the nature of dogs and the fun of having a dog as a pet. I recommend it for every child, as it will build their imaginations and teach them wonderful things as well.
Recommend this book:
Louie and the Dictator
Lisa Bournelis

2023 Silver Medal
64 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th

Louie may have been many things but he certainly was not dumb. Louie was a highly intelligent young boy. However, there was a bully who constantly followed him at school, back home, and everywhere he went. Unlike most bullies, Louie’s bully could not be seen by anyone. Worst still, it was only Louie who could hear what his bully said. This was so hard for Louie, especially after he was threatened with harsh consequences if he did not do what the bully wanted. Louie’s parents decided to take Louie to a wizard to help him deal with the bully. Will the wizard see Louie’s bully and who exactly is the bully? Will he help Louie beat the bully? Find out more in Louie and the Dictator by Lisa Bournelis.
Lisa Bournelis does a great job creating awareness of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in her book Louie and the Dictator. This is a must-read for every kid, parent, and anyone battling OCD. Bournelis uses short and simple sentences to drive her storyline. Her choice of words served to enlighten me more about OCD. The plot of the story is relevant and perceivable. The characters are wonderfully developed, with each of their traits brought out well. I loved how the author uses introspection to highlight Louie’s struggles. This book made me understand what it feels like to live with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. The good news for anyone with OCD is that you can overcome it and that is highlighted in this excellent piece of work.
Recommend this book:
Maya Mysun & the World that does not Exist
A Magical Fantasy Adventure
PM Perry

2023 Finalist
259 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th

Maya Mysun has always been interested in magic, while her twin Jack has a penchant for science. On their thirteenth birthday, after several dire warnings from unnamed sources, their parents inexplicably disappear. Tommy, Maya’s pet tortoise, turns into a strange being who transports them to a different realm. In a parallel storyline, a streetwise teen named David is taken to a facility that seems otherworldly. How will the twins find David, fight the evil forces, and bring back their parents? Maya Mysun and the World that does not Exist by P.M. Perry is a young adult fantasy novel based on two distinct but interconnected realms - the Siantia, believing in scientific logic, and the Konjiuria, delving into sorcery.
In his book, P.M. Perry has created a whole new fantastical world full of magic tricks, wizards, wraiths, genies, and strange beasts. The trio’s epic adventures take them through numerous hurdles that rigorously test their powers. As the story progresses, they unearth a diabolical conspiracy that plunges them into fierce battles. Unlike many other fantasy stories, Perry doesn’t shun the scientific and technological advances of the modern world but instead allows them to play a prominent role in the novel. Maya Mysun and the World that does not Exist imparts moral lessons to its readers, as Maya repeatedly demonstrates the power of kindness. The trio escapes impossible situations, armed with nothing but scant magical prowess and a strong bond between them. Although the story is geared toward young adults, I would also recommend this magical tale to any adults who appreciate fantasy.
Recommend this book:
The Scariest Book in the Whole Entire World
Joey Acker

2023 Gold Medal
39 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd

“This book unfortunately belongs to (space for name)” are the first words. They precede even the title, The Scariest Book in the Whole Entire World. No children were present, unfortunately, because I laughed aloud all the way through, it’s so gloriously funny. Joey Acker has written it in the first person from the point of view of a simply sketched but expressive character to whom any child could relate. He, or she – usefully, it could be either – is not scared, much. There is a warning that you, the reader, could turn back, but, of course, one doesn’t, and no child is likely to let you, even though the poor unnamed soul begs you to close the book because he/she would escape experiencing the horrors again.
What I liked most about Joey Acker’s writing is his chatty style. There are all sorts of things that might genuinely frighten a young child. Read The Scariest Book in the Whole Entire World and common fears, such as the rats that come to the cheese, and the ghost who MIGHT be around, and spiders will be banished. Long words, common but not “proper” words, and the mixed font mean the book must be read aloud by an adult and the child will laugh with you. AHHHHHH!!!! it got dark, but all the darkness hides is Bobo the clown. There are more horrors tackled – buy it, read it, preferably to a child in case anybody’s watching. The Scariest Book in the Whole Entire World is both marvelous fun and a practical way to deal with “nightmares”.
Recommend this book:
The Gingerbread Twins
Renee Hayes

2023 Silver Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd

Fox, the baker, enjoyed eating the gingerbread cookies baked by the little old man and the little old woman. But as time passed, the taste of these sweet cookies faded from his memory. Fox knew it was time to bake the best gingerbread cookies, but could he keep the old taste, snap and crunch alive? Fox doubted himself because he did not achieve it with the previous batches. He felt like a failure. Then one day, Fox got it right down to the taste and crunch, but something scary happened. The pair of gingerbread figures came alive and escaped, even before he could complete his process. What will Fox do? Follow the baker on his adventure with The Gingerbread Twins by Renee Hayes.
The Gingerbread Twins written by Renee Hayes and illustrated by Darby Scebold is a hilarious yet educative picture storybook for everyone. It will appeal to children the most because of the attractive illustrations and life lessons essential for their growth. This story talks about believing in ourselves and casting out self-doubt. In a world that preys on the vulnerability of children, the book reminds them to get up and try again whenever they fail. No one gets it right the first time. If we record consistent failures, we must re-strategize and change our methods because something is missing. We must also learn to document and ask for help from experts because it will help us to recall and work smarter. This is a beautiful picture storybook for kindergartners, and I enjoyed it.
Recommend this book:
Dash and Nikki and The Jellybean Game
Anthony C. Delauney

2023 Bronze Medal
38 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd

Anthony C. Delauney wrote Dash and Nikki and The Jellybean Game to teach kindergarten to third-grade children about saving for the future. Dash and Nikki are brother and sister. One day at breakfast, they find 10 jellybeans near their plates. Their parents give them a challenge: they can eat all the jellybeans now or wait. If they wait, they’ll get more jellybeans later. Nikki ate all her beans almost immediately, but Dash held onto his and received the promised more jellybeans. But he thinks of a way to help his sister—he’ll lend her some jellybeans if she promises to pay him back with interest. Nikki agrees and she receives more jellybeans as the day goes on, with both children getting more jellybeans in the end. Delauney is a financial advisor; he wrote this rhyming book to teach children the value of saving as well as helping others. The book is illustrated by Chiara Civati. This is the first book in Delauney’s Owning the Dash series of children’s books.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dash and Nikki and The Jellybean Game. The rhyming made the book fun to read, but more importantly, the book teaches valuable lessons to children. Many parents want to teach their kids financial lessons but struggle because the kids don’t want to be lectured. This book accomplishes the purpose in an entertaining way that will stick with children. Delauney says that the book is for kindergarten to third-grade children, which is a perfect time to start teaching finances. The illustrations by Chiara Civati are beautiful and fit the accompanying text perfectly. I highly recommend this book to children, parents, and grandparents. My own children would have loved the book when they were young, and they would have learned some valuable lessons.
Recommend this book:
The Fish and the Underwater Bird
Barbara Pinke

2023 Bronze Medal
43 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd

The Fish and the Underwater Bird is a children's picture book by award-winning author Barbara Pinke. With some beautiful illustrations by Alvin Adhi, the book follows Seaya, a curious fish who loves collecting pretty pebbles, shells, and coral. One day, while hunting for treasures, Seaya stumbles on a mysterious wooden chest. To her surprise, a bird popped out of it and just as quickly went back inside. Determined to free the bird, Seaya tries in vain to open the wooden box. Looking for answers, she visits Professor Turtle, Mr. Octopus, and Mr. Manta Ray, accompanied by her friend Pesho. However, it is Dad Fish who resolves the mystery. Together they wait in front of the wooden chest and this time Seaya finally learns the value of patience.
A delightful children's adventure tale with a gentle lesson on the virtue of patience, The Fish and the Underwater Bird is a book that kids will love. Barbara Pinke tells a short and sweet story about an adorable fish who loves hunting treasures and getting to the bottom of mysteries. Pinke's engaging writing style makes the book fun and all the more immersive to read. Alvin Adhi's eye-catching illustrations splash color onto the pages and bring the characters to life. Seaya is someone kids will find themselves liking. Her vibrant personality makes her easy to relate to, and readers are bound to love her adventurous spirit. A thoroughly enjoyable picture book for children under the age of ten.
Recommend this book:
Ellie Visits the Dentist
Katie Specht

2023 Finalist
24 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd

Ellie Visits the Dentist by Katie Specht is the story of a young girl named Ellie who loves to eat sweets, including cookies, candy, and cupcakes. Although Ellie ate some vegetables each night, it was just enough so that she could get more sweet treats after supper. One day Ellie went to the dentist for a check-up and to clean her teeth when Dr. Patsy informed her that she had two cavities that needed to be filled at the next appointment. Ellie feared going to the dentist for the second check-up, but it was not such a bad experience. The dental assistant painted her nails, and Dr. Patsy gave her a beautiful hair bow when the procedure was complete. Although Ellie said she loved Dr. Patsy, she didn’t want to see the dentist again soon and vowed to take better care of her teeth.
Ellie Visits the Dentist by Katie Specht is a colorful and delightful storybook about one of the children’s biggest fears, going to the dentist and then learning they need to have a procedure carried out. The story is relatable to most children who loathe dentist visits but love their treats. This story highlights that you can still enjoy sweet things, but to do so, you must clean your teeth properly each day. After the dentist attended to her cavities, Ellie’s mother takes her to get ice cream, emphasizing to both children and adults that it’s okay to enjoy life if you’re responsible. This is a feel-good, lighthearted story.
Recommend this book:
The Greatest Treasure
Anne Lacourrege, Joshua Wichterich

2023 Bronze Medal
30 Pages
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Children - Mystery

The Greatest Treasure by Anne Lacourrege and Joshua Wichterich is a children’s action story. Lily lives in an apartment in a house owned by her grandmother. The house was old and Lily is intrigued by a door that is never opened. She’s disappointed when she learns the key has gone missing but then, one night, she hears a voice asking her to open the door. Playing in the basement the next day, she discovers the key and that night, she opens the door. What she finds there is amazing – a hidden room with a secret. But what is the secret and what will Lily do with it?
The Greatest Treasure by Anne Lacourrege and Joshua Wichterich is a lovely story about family and love with some great drawings. It’s a fun tale about a little girl who discovers a secret room and learns that the greatest treasure of all is within. The authors have created some wonderful characters and a narrative that’s easy to read and follow. It’s perfectly suited to its target audience and the colorful illustrations help children to picture the events for themselves. Hopefully, the book will teach its readers to appreciate what they have and not to keep looking for hidden treasures that may or may not be there. This is a good choice for bedtime story time but I would also say that it should be on the reading lists for youngsters at school too. It is entertaining, amusing, and a feel-good adventure, highly recommended for all younger children.
