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Are you an aspiring author looking to gain recognition for your work? Or perhaps you’re a seasoned writer seeking ways to elevate your career to new heights. In the competitive world of literature, one avenue that shouldn’t be overlooked is author and book awards. These accolades celebrate literary excellence and serve as powerful tools for advancing your career.
Whether you write fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or young adult literature, there’s an award out there waiting to recognize your talent and propel your career forward. From prestigious honors like the Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize in Literature to genre-specific awards such as the Hugo Award for Science Fiction and the Agatha Award for Mystery, the literary world offers many opportunities for recognition. Heck, for some awards, you don’t even need to have a book published yet.
But why should authors pay attention to these awards in the first place? The benefits go beyond mere recognition. Winning or even being nominated for an award can open doors to new opportunities, including increased visibility, expanded readership, and potential book deals. Awards can also boost an author’s credibility and prestige within the industry, leading to more speaking engagements, media coverage, and invitations to literary events. Whether you’re a debut author or a seasoned veteran, there’s always something to gain from the recognition and validation that comes with winning an award.
(P.S. If you’re from another country, don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten you. As we continue our series we’ll be covering European book awards and those for Australa, Canada, and more!)
Every Book Award or Author Recognition Available for US Authors Part One
1. Aga Khan Prize for Fiction:
The Aga Khan Prize for Fiction is awarded by the Aga Khan University to recognize outstanding fiction that deals with the cultures, history, and societies of Muslim societies.
2. Agatha Award:
The Agatha Awards honor traditional mystery literature. They are named in honor of Agatha Christie and are presented annually by Malice Domestic, Ltd. Works in the mystery genre that contains no explicit sex, excessive gore, or gratuitous violence are eligible for the award.
3. Aiken Taylor Award for Modern American Poetry:
The Aiken Taylor Award is awarded by the Sewanee Review to honor a living author of a significant body of work in American poetry.
4. ALA Notable lists:
The American Library Association (ALA) Notable lists highlight notable books, recordings, and videos for all ages. Books in various genres and formats that are notable for their quality, creativity, and contribution to literature are eligible.
5. Alex Awards:
The Alex Awards are given to ten books written for adults that have special appeal to young adults, ages 12 through 18.
6. Alfred Thayer Mahan Award for Literary Achievement:
The Alfred Thayer Mahan Award, named after the naval historian, is given to authors whose books have made a significant contribution to the literature of the sea. Books in the field of maritime literature are eligible for the award.
7. Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults:
Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults is a list of recommended audiobooks selected by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA).
8. Amazon’s Best Books of the Year:
Amazon’s Best Books of the Year is an annual list curated by Amazon editors to highlight the top books across various genres. Books from any genre that are available for sale on Amazon are eligible.
9. Ambassador Book Award:
The Ambassador Book Award is presented by the English-Speaking Union of the United States to recognize important literary achievements from both American and British authors. The award promotes cultural exchange between the United States and the United Kingdom. Eligible works include fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama.
10. America Award:
The America Award is presented by the Italy-USA Foundation to individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting the friendship and cultural exchange between Italy and the United States.
11. American Academy of Arts and Letters Gold Medal for: Fiction, Novels, Short Stories:
The Gold Medal for Fiction, Novels, and Short Stories is awarded by the American Academy of Arts and Letters to honor outstanding achievement in fiction writing. American fiction writers whose works have made a significant impact on American literature are eligible.
12. American Academy of Arts and Letters Gold Medal in Drama:
The Gold Medal in Drama is awarded by the American Academy of Arts and Letters to honor outstanding achievement in dramatic writing. American playwrights whose works have made a significant impact on American theater are eligible.
13. American Academy of Arts and Letters Gold Medal in Poetry:
The Gold Medal in Poetry is awarded by the American Academy of Arts and Letters to honor outstanding achievement in poetry writing. American poets whose works have made a significant impact on American poetry are eligible.
14. American Academy of Arts and Letters Gold Medals in Belles Lettres, Criticism and Essays:
The Gold Medals in Belles Lettres, Criticism, and Essays are awarded by the American Academy of Arts and Letters to honor outstanding achievement in non-fiction writing. American authors whose works have made a significant impact on American literature through criticism and essays are eligible.
15. American Book Awards:
The American Book Awards are presented by the Before Columbus Foundation to recognize outstanding literary achievement from the diverse spectrum of the American literary community. All titles published or distributed in the United States in the year before the award ceremony are eligible.
16. American Children’s Literary Awards:
American children’s literary awards recognize outstanding literature for children and young adults.
17. American Fiction Awards:
American Fiction Awards recognize outstanding works of fiction across various genres and styles including novels, short stories, and novellas, are eligible for these awards.
18. American Library Association Awards:
The American Library Association (ALA) administers various awards to recognize outstanding contributions to literature, library services, and the promotion of literacy.
19. American Library Association Rainbow List:
The Rainbow List is a bibliography of books with significant LGBTQ+ content for children and teens.
20. AML Awards:
The Association for Mormon Letters (AML) Awards recognize excellence in literature writing about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across various genres, including fiction, poetry, and criticism.
21. Andre Norton Award:
The Andre Norton Award for Young Adult Science Fiction and Fantasy is presented by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA) to honor outstanding science fiction and fantasy books written for the young adult audience. Authors of young adult science fiction and fantasy novels published in the preceding year are eligible.
22. Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence in Fiction and Nonfiction:
The Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence in Fiction and Nonfiction are presented by the American Library Association to recognize the best fiction and nonfiction books for adult readers published in the United States during the preceding year.
23. Anisfield-Wolf Book Award:
The Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards recognize books that have made important contributions to our understanding of racism and human diversity. Books in the categories of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that address issues of racism and diversity are eligible.
24. Anthony Awards:
The Anthony Awards honor the best in mystery and crime fiction. Presented at Bouchercon, the World Mystery Convention, the awards are named after Anthony Boucher, a well-known mystery critic and author. Works in the mystery genre published in the preceding year are eligible.
25. Arab American Book Award:
The Arab American Book Award is presented by the Arab American National Museum to honor books that celebrate the Arab American experience, culture, and heritage. Books written by or about Arab Americans are eligible for this award.
26. Army Historical Foundation:
The Army Historical Foundation honors exceptional works of military history and supports the development of the National Museum of the United States Army. Books and authors that contribute significantly to the understanding of U.S. Army history are eligible.
27. Art Seidenbaum Award for First Fiction:
The Art Seidenbaum Award for First Fiction is presented by the Los Angeles Times to recognize outstanding debut fiction.
28. Arthur Rense Prize:
The Arthur Rense Prize is awarded by the American Academy of Arts and Letters to honor outstanding achievement in literature. American authors whose works have made a significant impact on American literature are eligible.
29. Asian American Literary Awards:
The Asian American Literary Awards are presented by the Asian American Writers’ Workshop to recognize outstanding works of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction by Asian American authors.
30. Asian/Pacific American Awards for Literature:
The Asian/Pacific American Awards for Literature are administered by the Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association to honor outstanding literary works by or about Asian/Pacific Americans. Books in various genres written by or about Asian/Pacific Americans are eligible.
31. Aspen Words Literary Prize:
The Aspen Words Literary Prize celebrates fiction that illuminates vital contemporary issues. It is awarded annually by the Aspen Words literary organization. Works of fiction published in the preceding year are eligible.
32. Astounding Award for Best New Writer:
The Astounding Award for Best New Writer, formerly known as the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer, is presented by the World Science Fiction Society to honor the best new science fiction or fantasy writer. Writers who have published their first professional work within the past two years are eligible.
33. Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award:
The Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award is the world’s largest award for children’s and young adult literature. It is presented annually by the Swedish Arts Council to honor the memory of author Astrid Lindgren. Authors, illustrators, oral storytellers, and reading promoters worldwide are eligible.
34. Audie Awards:
The Audie Awards, presented by the Audio Publishers Association, recognize excellence in audiobooks and spoken-word entertainment across various genres and categories:
- Audie Award for Audio Drama: The Audie Award for Audio Drama recognizes excellence in dramatic audio productions, including adaptations, original dramas, and radio plays.
- Audie Award for Audiobook of the Year: The Audie Award for Audiobook of the Year is the highest honor in the audiobook industry, recognizing the best overall audiobook across all categories.
- Audie Award for Autobiography or Memoir: The Audie Award for Autobiography or Memoir honors outstanding audiobooks in the genre of personal memoirs and autobiographies.
- Audie Award for Best Female Narrator: The Audie Award for Best Female Narrator recognizes exceptional performances by female narrators across all genres.
- Audie Award for Best Male Narrator: The Audie Award for Best Male Narrator recognizes exceptional performances by male narrators across all genres.
- Audie Award for Business and Personal Development: The Audie Award for Business and Personal Development recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the fields of business, self-help, and personal development.
- Audie Award for Erotica: The Audie Award for Erotica recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the genre of erotica.
- Audie Award for Faith-Based Fiction and Nonfiction: The Audie Award for Faith-Based Fiction and Nonfiction recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the genres of religious fiction and nonfiction.
- Audie Award for Fantasy: The Audie Award for Fantasy recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the fantasy genre, including epic fantasy, urban fantasy, and magical realism.
- Audie Award for Fiction: The Audie Award for Fiction recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the fiction genre, including literary fiction, historical fiction, and contemporary fiction.
- Audie Award for History or Biography: The Audie Award for History or Biography recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the genres of history and biography.
- Audie Award for Humor: The Audie Award for Humor recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the genre of comedy and humor.
- Audie Award for Literary Fiction or Classics: The Audie Award for Literary Fiction or Classics recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the genres of literary fiction and classic literature.
- Audie Award for Middle-Grade Title: The Audie Award for Middle Grade Title recognizes outstanding audiobooks aimed at middle-grade readers (typically ages 8-12).
- Audie Award for Multi-Voiced Performance: The Audie Award for Multi-Voiced Performance recognizes outstanding audiobooks that feature multiple narrators or a full cast.
- Audie Award for Mystery: The Audie Award for Mystery recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the mystery genre, including traditional mysteries, thrillers, and suspense novels.
- Audie Award for Narration by the Author: The Audie Award for Narration by the Author recognizes outstanding audiobooks narrated by their authors
- Audie Award for Nonfiction: The Audie Award for Nonfiction recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the nonfiction genre, including history, biography, and memoir.
- Audie Award for Original Work: The Audie Award for Original Work recognizes outstanding audiobooks that are original creations, not based on previously published material.
- Audie Award for Romance: The Audie Award for Romance recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the romance genre, including contemporary romance, historical romance, and paranormal romance.
- Audie Award for Science Fiction: The Audie Award for Science Fiction recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the science fiction genre, including space opera, dystopian fiction, and hard science fiction.
- Audie Award for Short Stories or Collections: The Audie Award for Short Stories or Collections recognizes outstanding audiobooks that feature short stories or collections of works by one or multiple authors.
- Audie Award for Thriller or Suspense: The Audie Award for Thriller or Suspense recognizes outstanding audiobooks in the thriller or suspense genre, including crime fiction, psychological thrillers, and legal thrillers.
- Audie Award for Young Adult Title: The Audie Award for Young Adult Title recognizes outstanding audiobooks aimed at young adult readers.
- Audie Award for Young Listeners’ Title: The Audie Award for Young Listeners’ Title recognizes outstanding audiobooks aimed at young children, typically ages 0-8.
35. Baillie Gifford Prize:
The Baillie Gifford Prize (formerly known as the Samuel Johnson Prize) is awarded annually to the best nonfiction book published in English, regardless of the author’s nationality.
36. Balrog Awards:
The Balrog Awards, named after the creature from J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth legendarium, are presented annually by the Fantastic Arts Association to honor outstanding works of fantasy literature. Works of fantasy literature in various categories are eligible.
37. Bancroft Prize:
The Bancroft Prize is awarded annually by Columbia University to honor outstanding works in American history or diplomacy.
38. Banipal Prize for Arabic Literary Translation:
The Banipal Prize for Arabic Literary Translation is awarded annually to recognize the best translations of Arabic literature into English.
39. Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers Award:
The Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers Award honors outstanding fiction and nonfiction by emerging writers. Debut or early works of fiction and nonfiction are eligible.
40. Barry Award:
The Barry Award, named after Barry Gardner, is presented annually by Deadly Pleasures Mystery Magazine to honor the best crime fiction novels of the year. Crime fiction novels published in English are eligible.
41. BCALA Literary Awards:
The BCALA Literary Awards, presented by the Black Caucus of the American Library Association, honor outstanding works of fiction and nonfiction by African American authors. Books by African American authors in various categories, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and debut fiction, are eligible.
42. Bentley Book Prize:
The Bentley Book Prize, awarded by the Bentley Historical Library at the University of Michigan, honors outstanding books that significantly contribute to understanding the history, culture, and society of the state of Michigan.
43. Best Fiction for Young Adults:
The Best Fiction for Young Adults list, compiled annually by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), recognizes outstanding young adult fiction that appeals to a wide range of teen readers. Young adult fiction published in the previous year is eligible.
44. Best Translated Book Award:
The Best Translated Book Award, organized by Three Percent at the University of Rochester, honors outstanding works of translated literature published in the United States. Books translated into English and published in the United States are eligible.
45. Biographers International Organization:
The Biographers International Organization (BIO) promotes the art and craft of biography and supports biographers through networking, education, and advocacy. BIO membership is open to biographers at all levels, from aspiring to seasoned professionals.
46. Bisexual Book Awards:
The Bisexual Book Awards, organized by the Bi Writers Association, honor outstanding books with bisexual themes, characters, and/or bisexual authors.
47. Bobbitt National Prize for Poetry:
The Bobbitt National Prize for Poetry, awarded by the Library of Congress, honors the most distinguished book of poetry published by an American author during the preceding two years.
48. Bollingen Prize:
The Bollingen Prize for Poetry, administered by Yale University, is awarded biennially to an American poet for the best book published during the previous two years or for lifetime achievement in poetry.
49. Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize:
The Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize, also known as the Wodehouse Prize, is awarded annually to the best comic novel written in the English language.
50. Booklist Editors’ Choice:
The Booklist Editors’ Choice Awards, presented by the American Library Association’s Booklist magazine, honor the best adult and youth books reviewed during the previous year. Books in various categories, including fiction, nonfiction, and youth literature, are eligible.
51. Bram Stoker Award:
The Bram Stoker Awards, presented by the Horror Writers Association (HWA), recognize superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy writing. Works of horror and dark fantasy published in the previous calendar year are eligible. Subcategories of awards are:
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Alternative Forms: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy across various alternative forms such as video games, podcasts, multimedia projects, etc
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Anthology: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy anthologies.
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Fiction Collection: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy fiction collections.
- Bram Stoker Award for Best First Novel: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy for a first novel.
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Graphic Novel: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy graphic novels.
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Long Fiction: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy long fiction (novellas).
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Non-Fiction: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy non-fiction.
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Poetry Collection: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy poetry collections.
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Screenplay: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy screenplays.
- Bram Stoker Award for Best Young Adult Novel: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy novels aimed at young adults.
- Bram Stoker Award for Lifetime Achievement: This award recognizes individuals for their overall body of work and contributions to the horror genre.
- Bram Stoker Award for Novel: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy novels.
- Bram Stoker Award for Short Fiction: This award recognizes superior achievement in horror and dark fantasy short fiction.
52. Bronze Wrangler:
The Bronze Wrangler Award is presented annually by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum to honor outstanding works in Western cinema, literature, and music.
53. Caine Prize:
The Caine Prize for African Writing is awarded annually to an African writer of a short story published in English.
54. Caldecott Medal:
The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually by the American Library Association to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.
55. Casey Award:
The Casey Award is presented annually by Spitball: The Literary Baseball Magazine to honor the best baseball book of the year.
56. Center for Fiction First Novel Prize:
The Center for Fiction First Novel Prize, formerly known as the Flaherty-Dunnan First Novel Prize, honors the best debut novel of the year.
57. Charles Tilly Award for Best Book:
The Charles Tilly Award, presented by the American Sociological Association’s Section on Comparative and Historical Sociology, honors the best book in the field of social science history.
58. Charlotte Huck Award:
The Charlotte Huck Award is presented annually by the National Council of Teachers of English to honor outstanding fiction for children. Fiction books for children published in the previous year are eligible.
59. Children’s Literature Lecture Award:
The Children’s Literature Lecture Award is presented by the Children’s Literature Association to honor significant contributions to the field of children’s literature through lectures, critical essays, or bibliographies.
60. Children’s Literature Legacy Award:
The Children’s Literature Legacy Award, formerly known as the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, honors an author or illustrator whose books, published in the United States, have made a substantial and lasting contribution to literature for children.
61. Choice (Reviews, Not Awards):
Choice is a publishing unit of the Association of College and Research Libraries, a division of the American Library Association, producing reviews of academic books, electronic media, and Internet resources. While Choice does not offer awards, it is highly regarded for its reviews, which help librarians, faculty, and students make informed decisions about academic materials. Their reviews can indirectly influence the reputation and recognition of the works they review within academic circles.
62. Cholmondeley Award:
The Cholmondeley Award is presented by the Society of Authors to honor writers of poetry who have published a substantial body of work.
63. Christopher Award:
The Christopher Awards honor books, films, and television programs that affirm the highest values of the human spirit. Books, films, and television programs that promote positive social values are eligible.
64. Christopher Hewitt Award:
The Christopher Hewitt Award is presented by the Publishing Triangle to honor outstanding achievement in LGBTQ literature. Books with LGBTQ themes or by LGBTQ authors are eligible.
65. Christy Award:
The Christy Award honors and promotes excellence in Christian fiction. Christian fiction books published in the previous year are eligible.
66. Cohen Awards (Ploughshares):
The Cohen Awards, presented by Ploughshares literary magazine, honor outstanding works of fiction and poetry published in the magazine. Works of fiction and poetry published in Ploughshares are eligible.
67. Colby Award:
The Colby Award is presented by the William E. Colby Military Writers’ Symposium at Norwich University to honor a first-time author for a work of fiction or non-fiction that has made a major contribution to the understanding of military history, intelligence operations, or international affairs.
68. Colorado Book Awards:
The Colorado Book Awards honor outstanding works by authors, editors, and illustrators residing in Colorado. Books in various categories published in the previous year are eligible.
69. Common Wealth Award of Distinguished Service:
The Common Wealth Award of Distinguished Service honors individuals who have made significant contributions to society. Individuals from various fields are eligible.
70. Compton Crook Award:
The Compton Crook Award, presented by the Baltimore Science Fiction Society, honors the best first science fiction, fantasy, or horror novel of the year.
71. Cordwainer Smith Rediscovery Award:
The Cordwainer Smith Rediscovery Award is presented by the Cordwainer Smith Foundation to bring attention to unjustly forgotten science fiction and fantasy authors. Science fiction and fantasy authors whose works are deemed deserving of rediscovery are eligible.
72. Coretta Scott King Award:
The Coretta Scott King Book Awards honor African American authors and illustrators of outstanding books for children and young adults that demonstrate an appreciation of African American culture and universal human values.
73. Cybils Award:
The Cybils (Children’s and Young Adult Bloggers’ Literary Awards) honor children’s and young adult books recognized by the blogging community for their literary merit and popular appeal.
74. D. B. Hardeman Prize:
The D. B. Hardeman Prize, presented by the Mercer University Press, honors the best book on a Southern history topic. Books on Southern history published in the previous year are eligible.
75. Darlene Clark Hine Award:
The Darlene Clark Hine Award, presented by the Organization of American Historians, recognizes the best book in African American women’s and gender history.
76. Darrell Awards:
The Darrell Awards honor science fiction, fantasy, and horror writers living in the Mid-South. Books or short stories in the science fiction, fantasy, or horror genres by authors living in the Mid-South (Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee) are eligible.
77. Dartmouth Medal:
The Dartmouth Medal is awarded annually by the Reference and User Services Association (RUSA) to honor outstanding reference works. Reference works published in the previous year are eligible.
78. Dave Moore Award:
The Dave Moore Award, presented by the Libertarian Futurist Society, honors science fiction novels that explore the theme of freedom. Science fiction novels with libertarian themes published in the previous year are eligible.
79. Dayton Literary Peace Prize:
The Dayton Literary Peace Prize honors writers whose work advances peace as a solution to conflict, and leads readers to a better understanding of other cultures, peoples, religions, and political points of view. Books in fiction and non-fiction categories that promote peace are eligible.
80. Devil’s Kitchen Reading Award:
The Devil’s Kitchen Reading Award is presented by Southern Illinois University Carbondale to honor a book of poetry or fiction published in the previous year.
81. Dilys Award:
The Dilys Award, presented by the Independent Mystery Booksellers Association, honors the mystery titles of the year that the member booksellers most enjoyed selling.
82. Donna J. Stone National Literary Awards:
The Donna J. Stone National Literary Awards honor outstanding works of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
83. Dos Passos Prize:
The Dos Passos Prize for Literature, presented by the Longwood University, honors a significant body of work by an American author.
84. Drue Heinz Literature Prize:
The Drue Heinz Literature Prize, presented by the University of Pittsburgh Press, honors a collection of short fiction by an author who has published a book-length work of fiction or a minimum of three short stories or novellas in commercial magazines or literary journals.
85. Dundee International Book Prize:
The Dundee International Book Prize is an annual prize for an unpublished novel, awarded by Dundee University in partnership with Freight Books.
86. Dylan Thomas Prize:
The Dylan Thomas Prize is an annual award for young writers, aged 39 and under, that celebrates the international world of fiction.
87. EBRD Literature Prize:
The EBRD Literature Prize is awarded annually to the best work of literary fiction originally written in a language from one of the EBRD’s countries of operations and translated into English.
88. Edgar Allan Poe Awards:
The Edgar Allan Poe Awards, presented by the Mystery Writers of America, honor the best in mystery fiction, non-fiction, television, film, and theater. Works in the mystery genre published or produced in the previous year are eligible. Subcategories of the award are:
- Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Critical/Biographical Work: This award, part of the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, honors the best critical or biographical work related to the mystery genre.
- Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Episode in a TV Series: This award, part of the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, honors the best individual episode in a television series in the mystery genre.
- Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best First Novel: This award, part of the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, honors the best first mystery novel by an American author.
- Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Juvenile: This award, part of the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, honors the best mystery novel for children.
- Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Novel: This award, part of the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, honors the best mystery novel.
- Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Paperback Original: This award, part of the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, honors the best original paperback mystery.
- Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Short Story: This award, part of the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, honors the best mystery short story.
- Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Young Adult Novel: This award, part of the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, honors the best mystery novel for young adults.
89. Edward Lewis Wallant Award:
The Edward Lewis Wallant Award, presented by the University of Hartford, honors an American writer whose fiction is considered to have significance for American Jews. American writers whose fiction reflects American Jewish life and values are eligible.
90. Eisner Award for Best Adaptation from Another Medium:
The Eisner Award for Best Adaptation from Another Medium, part of the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, honors the best adaptation of a work from another medium into the comic book medium.
91. Eisner Award for Best Publication for Early Readers:
The Eisner Award for Best Publication for Early Readers, part of the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, honors the best comic book or graphic novel intended for readers aged 8 and under.
92. Eliza Atkins Gleason Book Award:
The Eliza Atkins Gleason Book Award, presented by the History of Education Society, honors outstanding historical scholarship that explores African American experiences in education.
93. Emerson-Thoreau Medal:
The Emerson-Thoreau Medal, presented by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, honors individuals whose writings reflect the spirit of transcendentalism and whose work offers deep insight into the relationship between humanity and the natural world.
94. Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence:
The Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence honors outstanding literary work from rising African American authors. African American authors of fiction published in the previous year are eligible.
95. Ethel Fortner Awards:
The Ethel Fortner Awards, presented by the Central Arkansas Library System, honor outstanding works of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry by Arkansas authors.
96. Eyelands Book Awards (international book contest):
The Eyelands Book Awards is an international book contest that honors both published and unpublished books in various categories.
97. Ezra Jack Keats Book Award:
The Ezra Jack Keats Book Award, presented by the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation, honors outstanding new writers and illustrators of children’s books.
98. Fellows in American Letters of the Library of Congress:
The Fellows in American Letters of the Library of Congress award recognizes significant contributions to American literature.
99. First Novelist Award:
The First Novelist Award, presented by the Virginia Commonwealth University’s MFA in Creative Writing Program, honors outstanding debut novels.
100. Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction:
The Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction, presented by the University of Georgia Press, honors outstanding collections of short stories. Collections of short stories by American authors are eligible.
101. Flash Fiction awards:
Flash fiction awards honor exceptional short-short stories typically under 1,000 words in length.
102. Florida Book Award:
The Florida Book Award honors the best Florida literature published the previous year in several categories. Books published in the previous year by Florida residents or about Florida are eligible.
103. Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award:
The Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award is an annual literary award for the best collection of short stories published in English.
104. Franz Kafka Prize:
The Franz Kafka Prize, awarded by the Franz Kafka Society and the City of Prague, honors authors whose work “appeals to readers regardless of their origin, nationality, or culture.”
105. Frederick Jackson Turner Award:
The Frederick Jackson Turner Award, presented by the Organization of American Historians, honors an author’s first scholarly book dealing with some aspect of American history.
106. Frost Medal:
The Frost Medal, presented by the Poetry Society of America, honors distinguished lifetime achievement in poetry.
107. Geisel Award:
The Geisel Award, presented by the American Library Association, honors the author(s) and illustrator(s) of the most distinguished American book for beginning readers published in English in the United States during the preceding year.
108. George B. Sohier Prize:
The George B. Sohier Prize, presented by the Boston Athenæum, honors the best book of literary merit published by a resident of Massachusetts or set in Massachusetts.
109. Georgia Writers Hall of Fame:
The Georgia Writers Hall of Fame honors Georgia writers and recognizes significant contributions to Georgia’s literary heritage. Georgia writers are eligible for induction.
110. GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Comic Book:
The GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Comic Book honors outstanding representations of LGBTQ themes in comic books.
111. Golden Wreath of Struga Poetry Evenings:
The Golden Wreath of Struga Poetry Evenings is awarded to a world-renowned poet for their contribution to poetry.
112. Goldsmith Book Prize:
The Goldsmith Book Prize, presented by the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics, and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, honors the best academic and trade books that focus on media, politics, and public policy.
113. Goodreads Choice Awards:
The Goodreads Choice Awards are the only major book awards decided by readers. They honor the best books of the year in various genres.
114. Gordon J. Laing Award:
The Gordon J. Laing Award, presented by the University of Chicago Press, honors the best scholarly book in any field of history published in the previous year.
115. Gotham Book Prize:
The Gotham Book Prize honors outstanding works of fiction and nonfiction that illuminate New York City in all its complexity.
116. Gottschalk Prize:
The Gottschalk Prize, presented by the American Society for Eighteenth-Century Studies, honors the best book on the eighteenth century. Books on the eighteenth century published in the previous year are eligible.
117. Grand Prix of Literary Associations (English, French, and Spanish):
The Grand Prix of Literary Associations honors outstanding literary works in English, French, and Spanish, awarded by the International Literary and Artistic Association (AILAA).
118. Great Plains Distinguished Book Prize:
The Great Plains Distinguished Book Prize honors outstanding books that contribute to the understanding of the Great Plains region of North America. Books that focus on the Great Plains region of North America are eligible.
119. Gregory Kolovakos Award:
The Gregory Kolovakos Award, presented by the PEN American Center, honors a translator for exceptional skill and dedication to the art of literary translation.
120. Gumshoe Awards:
The Gumshoe Awards honor the best achievements in crime fiction, including the best mystery novels and thrillers. Crime fiction novels published in the previous year are eligible.
121. Gustavus Myers Outstanding Book Award:
The Gustavus Myers Outstanding Book Award honors books that extend an understanding of race and the struggle for social justice in the United States.
122. Harold Morton Landon Translation Award:
The Harold Morton Landon Translation Award, presented by the Academy of American Poets, honors a published translation of poetry from any language into English.
123. Harper Lee Award:
The Harper Lee Award, presented by the Alabama Writers’ Forum, honors Alabama authors who have made a significant contribution to literature.
124. Helen and Kurt Wolff Translator’s Prize:
The Helen and Kurt Wolff Translator’s Prize, presented by the Goethe-Institut, honors an outstanding literary translation from German into English published in the United States.
125. Helmerich Award:
The Helmerich Award, presented by the Tulsa Library Trust, honors authors whose works have significantly contributed to the world’s literary heritage.
126. Hemingway Foundation/PEN Award:
The Hemingway Foundation/PEN Award honors a distinguished first book of fiction by an American author.
127. Hispanic Heritage Award for Literature:
The Hispanic Heritage Award for Literature recognizes Latino authors who have made significant contributions to literature.
128. Hopwood Award:
The Hopwood Award, presented by the University of Michigan, honors outstanding achievements in creative writing by University of Michigan students.
129. Howard E. Day Prize:
The Howard E. Day Prize, presented by the American Musicological Society, honors the best article by a scholar within five years of receiving a Ph.D.
130. Howland Memorial Prize:
The Howland Memorial Prize, presented by the National Academy of Sciences, honors the author of the most meritorious publication on the natural sciences.
131. Hudson Prize:
The Hudson Prize, presented by Black Lawrence Press, honors an outstanding collection of poetry or fiction.
132. Hugo Award:
The Hugo Awards honor the best in science fiction and fantasy literature. Science fiction and fantasy works published in the previous calendar year are eligible.
133. HWA Silver Hammer Award:
The HWA Silver Hammer Award is presented by the Horror Writers Association to individuals who have made significant contributions to the organization.
134: In the Margins Award:
The In the Margins Book Award honors books that reflect the experiences of marginalized youth. Books that resonate with marginalized youth are eligible.
135. Independent Publisher Book Awards:
The Independent Publisher Book Awards (IPPYs) honor the best independently published books. Books published by independent authors and publishers are eligible.
136. Indiana Authors Awards:
The Indiana Authors Awards honor the best books written by Indiana authors.
137. Indies Choice Book Awards:
The Indies Choice Book Awards, presented by the American Booksellers Association, honor books selected by independent booksellers nationwide. Books widely supported by independent booksellers are eligible.
138. International Botev Prize:
The International Botev Prize recognizes outstanding contributions to the development of Bulgarian literature and culture. Authors, translators, and cultural figures are eligible.
139. International Dublin Literary Award:
The International Dublin Literary Award is one of the world’s most prestigious literary prizes, awarded for a single work of fiction published in English or translated into English. Novels nominated by libraries worldwide are eligible.
140. International Human Rights Arts Movement:
The International Human Rights Arts Movement honors literary works that contribute to human rights awareness. Literary works that address human rights issues are eligible.
141. International Latino Book Awards:
The International Latino Book Awards honor the best Latino literature in English and Spanish. Books written by or about Latinos and published in English or Spanish are eligible.
142. International PEN literary awards:
International PEN literary awards honor outstanding literary works, including the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction, PEN/Bellwether Prize for Socially Engaged Fiction, and others. Various awards have different eligibility criteria, typically for works of fiction, non-fiction, or poetry.
143. International Rubery Book Award:
The International Rubery Book Award honors the best books by independent authors and publishers worldwide.
144. International Thriller Writers Awards:
The International Thriller Writers Awards honor the best in thriller and suspense literature. Thriller and suspense novels published in the previous year are eligible.
145. Isaac Asimov Awards:
The Isaac Asimov Awards, also known as the “Asimovs,” honor the best science fiction and fantasy writing published in Asimov’s Science Fiction magazine.
146. Ivan Sandrof Lifetime Achievement Award:
The Ivan Sandrof Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the National Book Critics Circle, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to American literary culture.
147. J. Anthony Lukas Book Prize:
The J. Anthony Lukas Book Prize honors outstanding non-fiction books that exemplify literary grace, commitment to serious research, and social concern. Non-fiction books published in the previous year are eligible.
148. J. Anthony Lukas Work-in-Progress Award:
The J. Anthony Lukas Work-in-Progress Award is given annually to aid in the completion of a significant work of non-fiction on a topic of American political or social concern. Authors working on non-fiction manuscripts are eligible.
149. J. I. Segal Awards of the Jewish Public Library (Montreal):
The J. I. Segal Awards of the Jewish Public Library in Montreal honor outstanding works of Yiddish literature.
150. J. M. Abraham Poetry Award:
The J. M. Abraham Poetry Award, presented by the University of Rochester, honors an outstanding book of poetry. Books of poetry published in the previous year are eligible.
151. Jackson Poetry Prize:
The Jackson Poetry Prize is awarded annually by Poets & Writers to an American poet of exceptional talent who deserves wider recognition.
152. James Duval Phelan Award:
The James Duval Phelan Award is given to an American author, translator, or editor whose work emphasizes the importance of literature in contemporary society.
153. James Jones First Novel Award:
The James Jones First Novel Award is given annually for a first novel of exceptional merit. First-time novelists are eligible.
154. James Laughlin Award:
The James Laughlin Award, presented by the Academy of American Poets, honors a second book of poetry forthcoming in the next calendar year. Poets with a first book published are eligible.
155. James Tait Black Memorial Prize:
The James Tait Black Memorial Prize is one of Britain’s oldest and most prestigious literary awards, awarded annually for the best work of fiction and the best biography published during the previous year.
156. Jan Michalski Prize:
The Jan Michalski Prize is awarded to authors worldwide for a work of fiction or non-fiction that stands out for its literary qualities. Works of fiction or non-fiction published in any language are eligible.
157. Jan Michalski Prize for Literature:
The Jan Michalski Prize for Literature is awarded annually by the Jan Michalski Foundation to an author whose work explores new territories of literature and art. Books exploring new territories of literature and art are eligible.
158. Janet Heidinger Kafka Prize:
The Janet Heidinger Kafka Prize is awarded annually for the best book of fiction by an American woman. Books of fiction by American women published in the previous year are eligible.
159. JCB Prize:
The JCB Prize for Literature is awarded annually to a distinguished work of fiction by an Indian author.
160. Jeanne Córdova Prize:
The Jeanne Córdova Prize celebrates lesbian authors whose writing reflects the depth, range, and richness of lesbian life.
161. Jerusalem Prize:
The Jerusalem Prize is awarded biennially to authors whose works explore themes of human freedom in society.
162. Jim Duggins Outstanding Mid-Career Novelists’ Prize:
The Jim Duggins Outstanding Mid-Career Novelists’ Prize, presented by the Lambda Literary Foundation, recognizes LGBTQ+ authors who have published multiple novels.
163. John Burroughs Medal:
The John Burroughs Medal is awarded annually to authors who have written outstanding works in the genre of natural history.
164. John C. Zacharis First Book Award:
The John C. Zacharis First Book Award is presented by Ploughshares to debut authors of exceptional merit.
165. John Leonard Prize:
The John Leonard Prize, presented by the National Book Critics Circle, honors a first book in any genre.
166. John Lyman Book Awards:
The John Lyman Book Awards recognize excellence in maritime history and maritime studies.
167. John Steinbeck Short Story Award:
The John Steinbeck Short Story Award, presented by Reed Magazine, recognizes outstanding works of fiction. Short stories published in the previous year are eligible.
168. John W. Campbell Memorial Award for Best Science Fiction Novel:
The John W. Campbell Memorial Award honors the best science fiction novel published in the previous year.
169. Joseph Henry Jackson Award:
The Joseph Henry Jackson Award, presented by the San Francisco Foundation, honors exceptional works by Bay Area authors.
170. Joyce Carol Oates Literary Prize:
The Joyce Carol Oates Literary Prize recognizes an emerging writer of fiction with a $50,000 prize.
171. Judith A. Markowitz Award:
The Judith A. Markowitz Award, presented by the Lambda Literary Foundation, honors LGBTQ+ writers who have made significant contributions to LGBTQ+ literature.
172. Judy Gaines Young Book Award:
The Judy Gaines Young Book Award is presented by Transylvania University and recognizes books of distinction published in the genres of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, or drama.
173. Kansas Notable Book Awards:
The Kansas Notable Book Awards recognize outstanding titles either written by Kansas authors or about Kansas.
174. Kate Tufts Discovery Award:
The Kate Tufts Discovery Award is presented by Claremont Graduate University and honors a first book of poetry by a promising poet.
175. Katherine Singer Kovács Prize:
The Katherine Singer Kovács Prize, awarded by the Modern Language Association, recognizes outstanding scholarship in the field of cinema and media studies. Books or essays in the field of cinema and media studies are eligible.
176. Kathleen Mitchell Award:
The Kathleen Mitchell Award, presented by the American Historical Association, honors outstanding historical research in the field of American or European women’s history. Books or essays in the field of American or European women’s history are eligible.
177. Keene Prize for Literature:
The Keene Prize for Literature is presented by the University of Texas at Austin and recognizes outstanding works of fiction, poetry, or nonfiction by undergraduate students.
178. Kelpies Prize:
The Kelpies Prize is awarded by Floris Books for unpublished children’s manuscripts with a Scottish theme or setting.
179. Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award:
The Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award is presented by Claremont Graduate University and recognizes a book of poetry by a mid-career poet.
180. Kiriyama Prize:
The Kiriyama Prize, administered by the Kiriyama Pacific Rim Institute, honors outstanding books that promote greater understanding of and among the peoples and nations of the Pacific Rim and South Asia.
181. Kirkus Prize:
The Kirkus Prize is awarded annually by Kirkus Reviews to authors of fiction, nonfiction, and young readers’ literature.
182. KONS International Literary Award:
The KONS International Literary Award recognizes outstanding literary works by contemporary authors. Literary works in any genre or language are eligible.
183. Koret Jewish Book Award:
The Koret Jewish Book Award honors outstanding books on Jewish themes or topics.
184. Lambda Literary Award:
The Lambda Literary Award celebrates excellence in LGBTQ literature across various genres including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and more. Books with LGBTQ themes or written by LGBTQ authors are eligible.
185. Langston Hughes Medal:
The Langston Hughes Medal is awarded by the City College of New York to recognize excellence in African American literature. African American authors with outstanding literary contributions are eligible.
186. Langum Prizes:
The Langum Prizes recognize the best books in American legal history and American historical fiction. Books in the categories of American legal history and American historical fiction are eligible.
187. Lannan Literary Awards:
The Lannan Literary Awards recognize writers who have made significant contributions to English-language literature. Writers of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry are eligible.
188. Lee Hochul Literary Prize for Peace:
The Lee Hochul Literary Prize for Peace recognizes works of literature that promote peace and understanding.
189. Leonard Bloomfield Book Award:
The Leonard Bloomfield Book Award, presented by the Linguistic Society of America, honors outstanding books in the field of linguistics.
190. Lewis Thomas Prize:
The Lewis Thomas Prize honors the rare individual who bridges the worlds of science and the humanities, reflecting the broad interests and curiosity of Lewis Thomas. Individuals who have made significant contributions to the understanding of science and its relationship to society are eligible.
191. Liberty Legacy Foundation Award:
The Liberty Legacy Foundation Award, presented by Hillsdale College, honors authors whose books deepen Americans’ understanding of their country’s founding principles and history.
192. Library of Congress Prize for American Fiction:
The Library of Congress Prize for American Fiction honors an American literary writer whose body of work is distinguished not only for its mastery of the art but also for its originality of thought and imagination.
193. Lillian Smith Book Award:
The Lillian Smith Book Award is given annually by the Southern Regional Council to authors of books that address issues of social justice and human rights.
194. LitStar Book Awards:
The LitStar Book Awards recognize outstanding books across various genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and children’s literature.
195. Livingston Award:
The Livingston Award recognizes outstanding achievement by journalists under the age of 35 in reporting across all forms of media.
196. Locus Award:
The Locus Awards are presented annually by the science fiction and fantasy magazine Locus to honor excellence in science fiction and fantasy literature. Books in various categories of science fiction and fantasy are eligible.
- Locus Award for Best First Novel: The Locus Award for Best First Novel recognizes outstanding debut works in the science fiction and fantasy genres.
- Locus Award for Best Novel: The Locus Award for Best Novel honors the best science fiction or fantasy novel of the year.
- Locus Award for Best Novella: The Locus Award for Best Novella recognizes outstanding works of science fiction or fantasy that fall within the novella category.
- Locus Award for Best Science Fiction Novel: The Locus Award for Best Science Fiction Novel recognizes the best novel in the science fiction genre.
- Locus Award for Best Young Adult Book: The Locus Award for Best Young Adult Book honors outstanding works of science fiction or fantasy aimed at young adult readers.
197. Lodestar Award for Best Young Adult Book:
The Lodestar Award for Best Young Adult Book is presented by the World Science Fiction Society (WSFS) as part of the Hugo Awards. It recognizes the best young adult book published in the previous year.
198. Lon Tinkle Award:
The Lon Tinkle Award is presented by the Texas Institute of Letters for the best book in any genre published by a Texas author.
199. Los Angeles Times Book Prize:
The Los Angeles Times Book Prize honors outstanding books in various categories, including fiction, biography, current interest, history, mystery/thriller, poetry, science and technology, young adult literature, and more.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Biography: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Biography is awarded for outstanding biographies or autobiographies.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Current Interest: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Current Interest is awarded for outstanding books addressing current events or social issues.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Fiction: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Fiction is awarded for outstanding works of fiction.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Graphic Novel/Comics: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Graphic Novel/Comics is awarded for outstanding works in the graphic novel or comics genre.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for History: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for History is awarded for outstanding works of history.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Mystery/Thriller: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Mystery/Thriller is awarded for outstanding works in the mystery or thriller genre.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Poetry: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Poetry is awarded for outstanding works of poetry.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Science and Technology: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Science and Technology is awarded for outstanding works in the fields of science and technology.
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Young Adult Novel: The Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Young Adult Novel is awarded for outstanding works of young adult literature.
200. Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Awards:
The Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Awards recognize excellence in travel journalism across various categories, including newspaper articles, magazine features, multimedia, and books. Entries must be travel-related journalism published in the previous year.
These first 200 book awards and author recognitions have probably already got your mind buzzing, but we’re not done yet. There are still more awards to be had. Check back next week for the second half of the list.
Happy writing!
Is there a list of awards for international writers?
We haven’t made a list specifically for international awards yet. International awards are included in this list, however, your best bet for now is to look through the list found on Wikipedia. It’s a little frustrating since you have to click on each award to get an idea for it and can’t quickly skim, but they’re all there: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_literary_awards