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
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Recommend this book:
The Roll-Away Pumpkin
Junia Wonders
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Action

The Roll-Away Pumpkin by Junia Wonders is a children’s book about an orange pumpkin rollicking and rolling down through a quaint town on a windy autumn day. Marla Little, the owner, is chasing her runaway pumpkin as it bounces happily away. The pumpkin catches the attention of the various townspeople who come together to help Marla. The farmer, the baker, the milkman, the butcher, the parade marchers, and finally the chef all become involved in the merry dash to stop the pumpkin from rolling further along. Everyone in the community joins in the fun and adventure as they get a surprise feast at the end.
Author Junia Wonders crafts an utterly charming and winsome story that encapsulates the very essence of autumn without making Halloween the main focus of the book. The easy-to-understand storyline is enhanced by the stunning beauty of the illustrations by Daniela Volpari. The palette of subdued colors is brilliantly blended to create a visual masterpiece that sets this book apart. The reader can pause with their little ones to admire and start a fun discussion about each colorful scene, prompting their child to engage in a lively dialogue to enhance their thinking skills. Two phrases that are fun to remember and say out loud are continuously repeated throughout the book to further help young children develop their reading skills. The Roll-Away Pumpkin is certain to become a children’s classic for all ages as the story and artwork perfectly combine to evoke the magic of fall.
Recommend this book:
Kris & The Pirates
The Adventures of Kris
Art J Blegen
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Action

A good book can pull you into the story so that you feel as if it’s all about you. When Kris opens a new pirate adventure in Kris & The Pirates by Art Blegen, Kris inserts herself in the pages of her story, and with her new friend James, they convince the captain of their ship to land on a small island slightly out of their way. But what they find there is nothing but trouble because this island is home to pirates. When the entire crew finds themselves captured, it’s up to Kris to save them, if she can manage it on her own. The animals on the island are all willing to help, but it might take some time before she can defeat the pirates and save the crew.
If you’re looking for an adventure story that will have kids racing through the jungle and fighting pirates, you’re in the right place with Kris & The Pirates by Art Blegen. The author uses words that fit the target audience. The author also moves the story along at a reasonable pace. The action scenes are fun and vibrant with each of the characters playing a part in achieving the end goal. Each character is interesting and young readers will feel connected to and excited about them. No matter where Kris turns, there’s someone to help her out. The author helps young readers experience what’s happening by creating believable characters and realistic descriptions of the scenery. Overall, this is a book about overcoming fear and achieving goals with the help of friends. It’s well-written and fun, and it shows kids how they can really immerse themselves in a book and feel as if they’re jumping right into the story.
Recommend this book:
The Legendary Mo Seto
A. Y. Chan
2024 Honorable Mention
320 Pages
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Children - Action

Being a kid can be rough, but it can also be a beautiful time of exploration and self-discovery. The Legendary Mo Seto by A.Y. Chan chronicles the adventures of charming 12-year-old Modesty Seto. Mo is passionate about taekwondo and idolizes Cody Kwok, a martial arts movie star. However, being a kid also comes with unexpected challenges, and "baggy-shirt-unbrushed-hair-can’t-sit-still" Mo experiences a series of events that disrupt her not-so-normal life. Her father leaves under puzzling circumstances, and she discovers a mysterious old book of his with many secrets. Meanwhile, Cody Kwok is looking for a new protege to star in his movies with him. Mo answers the casting call, only to find that her lifelong nemesis, Dax, has done the same. As events spiral out of control and danger looms, Mo discovers that strength is not only the prerogative of the body but also of the heart.
The Legendary Mo Seto by A.Y. Chan is a great book perfect for kids in the 9-12-year age group. It is also a delightful read, and I enjoyed it thoroughly, even though I haven't been in that target age group since the Triassic period. Sure, the plot is exceptional and focuses on self-worth, a touch of mystery, action, and friendship, but what truly stands out about this novel is that it's a fun read. The character development is fantastic, and the young protagonist, Mo, reminded me of someone I hold dear. Secondary characters, from Nacho to Cody, are well-rounded and believable, and even the adults are pretty cool. With a well-balanced and riveting story full of humor, adventure, and angst, The Legendary Mo Seto is a wonderful novel for today's youth.
Recommend this book:
The Boy With Video Game Powers
R.L. Ullman
2024 Finalist
153 Pages
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Children - Action

Hop on for an action-packed fantasy adventure with R.L. Ullman's The Boy With Video Game Powers. Milo Garret is excited to start sixth grade at the prestigious Empire City Magnet School. However, he also wants to keep his spot as the top-ranked player in the online Ranger's Quest video game. After acquiring the ultra-rare Glitch Ring in the game, Milo is shocked to see it appearing on his finger. Additionally, he starts seeing character attributes of Ranger Quest floating over people's heads in real life. He meets an NPC named Greylore, who tells him that the Demons of Havoc from an alternate reality called the Gameverse have entered Milo's world, and he must stop them from acquiring the three Keys of Convergence. Using his new video game powers as Pixel Man, Milo must now save the world.
Gamers and progression fantasy fans will absolutely love this book. R.L. Ullman takes readers on an absorbing and adventurous ride featuring a potent combination of thrilling action sequences, mystery, and a healthy dose of magic that you don't want to end. Ullman's characters are likable and easy to root for. Milo is the type of protagonist readers will want to see succeed. He resembles many real-life preteen gamers who love to indulge in multiplayer online role-playing games. Like other progression fantasy stories, Milo acquires new abilities after completing each task and beating the Demon Spawn. There is a shocking twist toward the end that I can honestly say I didn't see coming. In conclusion, The Boy With Video Game Powers is a fantastic book for young readers.
Recommend this book:
Sandy the Service Dog
Lost in a Hurricane (The Adventures of Sandy the Service Dog)
Michelle M. Deyarmin
2024 Gold Medal
39 Pages
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Children - Adventure

Sandy is a service dog. Her little girl, Shelby, has epilepsy and Sandy’s job is to watch over Shelby and warn others when Shelby is about to have a seizure. Sandy can sense when a seizure is coming on. And, with her training, she’s a very special type of dog. But there’s a hurricane coming and living in southern Florida is never safe during a hurricane. In the family’s escape efforts, they board a boat and Shelby’s younger brother, Luke, is swept away. Sandy’s the only one who can save him. She jumps into the water and manages to save Luke before he drowns. Only, in her efforts, Sandy is swept away. She is tossed about and finally finds herself in strange territory, alone and scared. When the storm passes, Sandy meets other creatures, including a dog, Max, who helps her find her way home.
Michelle M. Deyarmin’s early chapter book story, Sandy the Service Dog: Lost in a Hurricane (The Adventures of Sandy the Service Dog), is a compassionate story that will appeal to all young readers. The story introduces the strong bond between a service dog and the one he or she cares for. It also addresses issues like bullying and fear and risking all to help others. The story is told in the first person, from Sandy’s point of view. There is lots of dialogue to help carry this story along and the simple sketches provide a visual aspect to the story. The characters and setting are well developed and described and the plot is well constructed. A charming story of survival and dedication.
Recommend this book:
The Adventures of Dori
A Rescue Pup
Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis
2024 Silver Medal
34 Pages
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Children - Adventure

The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup is a heartwarming children's picture book written by Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis, with illustrations by TullipStudio. The story revolves around Dori, who is a lovely white puppy living in a cozy cottage by the sea. Dori enjoys spending her days playing and running around the beach with her friends, Benito and Jillian. One day, while playing on the beach, the trio discovers a starfish that needs help. The starfish's limb is trapped in a bottle, and it cannot free itself. Dori and her friends immediately spring into action to rescue the poor creature and release it back into the sea. The incident leaves Dori feeling uneasy, and she decides to team up with her friends and other beachgoers to clean up the trash polluting the beach and the sea.
The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup by Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis is a delightful book that teaches children about the importance of environmental protection and helping others in need. Through Dori's adventures, young readers are inspired to be mindful of their surroundings and experience the joy of friendship and working together. The characters are cute and beautifully depicted in the colorful illustrations. I particularly appreciated the tiny details, such as the different colored collars that distinguish Dori and her friends. The book also raises awareness about animal rescue and protection, which is a worthy cause to champion and support. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend adding it to your children's reading collection.
Recommend this book:
The Crafter
The Mysterious Game
Dan Sugralinov
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Children - Adventure

The Crafter: The Mysterious Game by Dan Sugralinov is a kids’ sci-fi fantasy story. When Kenny arrived in Kansas after living in New York, he expected to find a sleepy town. What he got was something completely different. His life suddenly becomes a game, but it’s nothing like the on-screen games he loves to play. Not only does he have to beat the monsters in the game, but he also has to beat the monsters and bullies he meets in real life. With Whiskers, his cat, by his side and some new-found friends, Kenny feels he can face anything. Every move must score him the maximum points, but it’s also about finding a place in a brand new world, one that will test him to his gaming limits.
The Crafter: The Mysterious Game by Dan Sugralinov is LitRPG at its best and well-aimed at its target audience. This is more than just a role-playing fantasy game, though. It also teaches kids about dealing with real-world experiences, such as a parent leaving or bullies in the schoolyard. It’s about having confidence in yourself and learning how to make friends and work as a team. The book is written in easy-to-follow language with some wonderfully developed characters that most kids, especially gamers, will find easy to relate to. It’s a combination of coming-of-age and fantasy with a narrative that perfectly fits both the real and gaming worlds. There is plenty of action to keep kids interested, and it’s a really inspiring read for them. This is the first in The Crafter series and is a great start. Looking forward to reading the next one.
Recommend this book:
Henri and the Magnificent Snort
A Children's Book about Bullying, Belonging, and Love
Samantha Childs
2024 Gold Medal
60 Pages
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Children - Animals

Henri and the Magnificent Snort: A Children's Book about Bullying, Belonging, and Love by Samantha Childs is an adorable children’s book that is inspired by her faithful canine companion, Henri Le Frenchie. Henri is an extraordinary dog, but one of the most unusual things about him is his cute little snort. Henri loved his life in New York, but when he had to move to San Diego, he had to learn to adapt and cope with new challenges. His first two days of doggy daycare went very well, and he made some interesting new friends. However, shortly after this, another dog named Russell unkindly points out that his special snort makes him sound like a pig, and all the other dogs turn against him, including his new furry friends. Will Henri be able to overcome these bullies and learn to love himself again?
Samantha Childs’ heart-warming story reminds readers about the importance of self-acceptance and the value of differences. She draws attention to the harmful nature of bullying and how it can destroy even the highest spirits. Anyone who has experienced criticism has been a victim of bullying, or has felt badly about themself because of someone else, will find this book relatable. I found the writing endearing and the language very clear. The rhyming is also most appropriate, as it mirrors Henri’s playful personality. The illustrations by Hannah Farr are also charming and depict the dog’s life vividly. Bullying is a prevalent issue in society that particularly affects children. I think Henri and the Magnificent Snort is a brilliant read, with a powerful message.
Recommend this book:
The Trouble with Children (According to Dog)
Katie Weaver
2024 Silver Medal
40 Pages
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Children - Animals

Have you ever wondered how your best furry friend really feels about you? Get ready to see the world through an adorable dog's eyes with Katie Weaver's The Trouble with Children (According to Dog). The story follows a family dog who is comfortable with most things in his life. He lives in a cozy house with regular meals and sleeps on a bed with back support. However, two little children live in the same house. Sometimes, they like to make a noise, other times, they squeeze him tight, leave their dirty toys in his bowl, or make him wear a dress, and even pull on his fur. But the dog realizes that the children do love him, and he enjoys their scratches, cuddles, and treats.
The Trouble with Children (According to Dog) is a hilarious picture book that aims to gently teach children about boundaries and general behavior with pets. Toward the end of the book, author Katie Weaver offers valuable tips on some important dos and don'ts concerning pets that pet owners and their children should find immensely helpful. Weaver's rhyming verses and Caner Soylu's colorful illustrations take readers on a fascinating journey following the everyday life of a lovable family dog who has a few choice complaints about the kids in his house. Funny, heartwarming, and informative, Weaver's storytelling is bound to keep young readers engaged and entertained. This book will help you understand and love your pet even more. I found myself smiling all the way through while reading and highly recommend it to children and their parents alike.
Recommend this book:
The Fish and his Puffy Temper
Barbara Pinke
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Animals

The Fish and His Puffy Temper is a children's picture book written by Barbara Pinke, with illustrations by Alvin Adhi. The story follows Puffy, an angry fish trying to make new friends. Unfortunately, the moment he arrives at the sea playground, he gets angry, puffs up, and scares away the other fish. Puffy soon realizes that it is no fun playing alone and becomes sad. Seassy, a seahorse, confronts him about his behavior and discovers why Puffy gets angry and that he is willing to make friends. The unlikely pair decides to find solutions to help Puffy control his anger. They visit different fish that face intense situations daily and learn from them how they stay calm and let go of their anger.
The Fish and His Puffy Temper is a heartwarming and relatable tale that teaches children the importance of self-control and empathy. Young readers will learn that making friends requires understanding and patience. The message is delivered gently and engagingly, making it an excellent read for children to learn about emotional intelligence and social skills. Barbara Pinke uses simple words and a calming tone to narrate the story, making it easy for readers to understand and fitting perfectly with the story's theme. The vibrant and colorful illustrations bring the sea world to life with intricate details that transport readers to an underwater world. The inclusion of small details like underwater plants, bubbles, and other subtle elements adds depth and texture to the art, making the story even more fun to read. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend sharing it with your children or students to teach them to control their emotions.