2025 Winners
PRINTED BOOKS
Grand Prize Winner:
The Summer Knows by Sarah E. Pearsall
$100 Drawing Winner:
Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
Activity Books (Adult)
1st Place: EASY Brain Activity Book for Adults and Kids by Myeongkeun Yang and Inseon Yang, illustrated by Kuiok Lee
Aging/Senior Living
1st Place: Doing the Right Thing: Simple Solutions, Essential Tips & Helpful Resources for Assisting Aging Loved Ones by Debbie C. Miller
Animals/Pets
1st Place (tie):
Animal Revenge by David Bush
Bentley Makes a Dump Cake by Miki Taylor, illustrated by Eunhye Shin
The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors by Nielle P. Marques
2nd Place (tie):
Chatty the Hen Pheasant (Travels With The Pack) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
Brave Buddy’s Big Mission by Gianna Scipione, illustrated by Michelle Mayhall
Honorable Mention:
Bella and Bird Explore Anger by Deana Plaskon
Cal Has Three Legs by Sasha Milena Filipovich, illustrated by Dalia Vukmirovich
Lucy’s Fantastic Flying Adventure by Pauline Chan, illustrated by D. Thomas
The Perfectly Beautiful Day by Dora Dillistone
Athena’s Special Valentine by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Athena the Anxious Shepherd by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Doc’s Dog Days (A Hickory Doc’s Activity Book) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
Margot and the Wise Turtle by Brennan O’Dea, illustrated by Stefi Baum
Sea Star Cookies: Fearful Fergus Learns Water Safety by Sarah Chaires, illustrated by
Elizabeth Tortora
Where are you, Hugh MacCoo? by Ruth Amanda
Hemi Bunny Finds a Mommy by Nicole Metas, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Audiobooks
1st Place: Flash of Fire by A.L. Wyss
2nd Place: Into Ashes by A.L. Wyss
Honorable Mention:
A One-Legged Cricket by C. J. Macgenn
The Treacle People: Still Sticky by Jonathan Trueman
The Dagger, The Madigan Chronicles book 1 by Marieke Lexmond
Best Cover Design
1st Place: Bentley Makes a Dump Cake by Miki Taylor, illustrated by Eunhye Shin
2nd Place: The Quest For Freedom by Matthew Devitt, illustrated by Alejandro Colucci
Honorable Mention:
The Tale of Tondra by Janet Tlachac-Toonen
Chatty the Hen Pheasant (Travels With The Pack) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
Home of the Spirit Animals by Cyd Raschke
SwimBee by Barbara Lynn Greif
Grandma’s Bucket of Mercy by Robin Carole
Simpleman by Michael Scott Curnes
The Butterfly Tales: Jaelyn by Nadja Losbohm
The Long, Lazy Summer (Wonders of Childhood & Beyond) by Michele L Sayre
The Old Man and the Bears by Joel Bennett Bennett, illustrated by Lue Isaac
Best Illustrations/Photography
1st Place (tie):
Athena the Anxious Shepherd by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Athena’s Special Valentine by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
2nd Place: The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors by Nielle P. Marques
Honorable Mention:
When I RAWR Like A Dinosaur by Richie Bandoy, illustrated by Omayra Michael
Camila on Wheels! by Nayeli Perez, illustrated by Marco Perez
Birds. Discover & Color 30 Beautiful Birds of North America by Vanessa Wyll
Cal Has Three Legs by Sasha Milena Filipovich, illustrated by Dalia Vukmirovich
Bajette’s Balloon by Claudia Colonna, illustrated by Ed Hose
Sam’s Birthday Present by Lucie Z. Rotundo, illustrated by Michelle Simspon
SwimBee by Barbara Lynn Greif
Claiming Her Crown (Butterfly Princess Book 4) by Alisa Hope Wagner, illustrated by Albert
Morales
The Red Fox Families of San Juan Island by Sylvia M. Medina and Marcia Walters, illustrated
by Andreas Wessel-Therhorn
Chris Kringle and the Jingle Squad by Sheryl Hilton, illustrated by Nia Quin
Sam and His Amazing Flying Crib by Jan O’Dea
Ralphie’s First Ripple by Tammy Brighton-Craig, illustrated by Emily Watson
Best Interior Design
1st Place: 100 Objects from the Collections of the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research by Stefanie Halpern
2nd Place: Bentley Makes a Dump Cake by Miki Taylor, illustrated by Eunhye Shin
Honorable Mention:
Exits by Stephen Pollock
The Quest For Freedom by Matthew Devitt, illustrated by Alejandro Colucci
Ralphie and the Trash Bash by Tammy Brighton-Craig, illustrated by Emily Watson
Simpleman by Michael Scott Curnes
Chris Kringle and the Jingle Squad by Sheryl Hilton, illustrated by Nia Quin
Biography/Autobiography/Memoir
1st Place (tie):
A Mission Without Borders: Why a Father and Son Risked it All for the People of Ukraine by Chad Robichaux
A Single Desperate Prayer by Ludmila Ritz
2nd Place: Freeing Teresa: A True Story about My Sister and Me by Franke James
Honorable Mention:
The Committed Professor, A Memoir: My Fall From the Lectern to the Psych Ward by Kathi Miner
Unlimited Heart: How To Transform Your Pain Into Purpose by Jim Kaveney
Book Trailer
1st Place: Eldryan Elders by S.G. Blaise
Business & Finance
1 st Place: Give First: The Power of Mentorship by Brad Feld
2 nd Place: If They Won’t Bend, Break Them!®: Tips, Tactics and Strategies You Need to Negotiate Like a Pro by Geoffrey Michael
Honorable Mention:
Unconvention: A Small Business Strategy Guide by Sri Kaza
Careers
1st Place: The Stories They Hear: Expecting Greatness as the Key to Success by Dr. William Keyes IV
2nd Place: Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
Children’s Activity Books
1st Place: Japanese Cooking with Kids: 50 Kid-Tested Recipes to Make Together! by Debra Samuels and Mayumi Uejima-Carr
2nd Place: Doc’s Dog Days (A Hickory Doc’s Activity Book) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
Honorable Mention:
Fiesta de letras by Yudit González Pérez, illustrated by Alynor Díaz
The Perfect Little Angel Activity Book by Liz T. Beaton, illustrated by Andrea Brasier
Birds. Discover & Color 30 Beautiful Birds of North America by Vanessa Wyll
Sharks and Mermaids by Lindsay Ann Fink, illustrated by Anna Ishchenko
Glitter the Unicorn Loves to Color on the Moon by Callie Chapman, illustrated by Bronwyne Chapman
Blue Bubble Gum by Martha Goldner
Vinny’s World Tour-An Adventure In Imagination by Jacqueline Wallace
Children’s Chapter Books
1 st Place (tie):
Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
The Golden Girl-Destined To Be A Star: Soccer Books For Kids 8-12 by Terrence Armstrong
The Quarterback Who Became A Legend: Football Books For Kids 8-12 by Terrence Armstrong
Zoey Wonders Why and The Great Catastrophe by Nadia Khan, illustrated by Tasya Nabiella
2nd Place: The Year of Penny by Laurie Pluimer, illustrated by Ethan Pluimer
Honorable Mention:
Amora Fedora and the Great Hat Trick by Pauline Ho, illustrated by Mark Beech
My Life Is Good by Mark Tiffany
Dyani’s Adventure by Kitty Arceneaux
Miko and the Thinking Machine by Annie Nova
Chris Kringle and the Jingle Squad by Sheryl Hilton, illustrated by Nia Quin
Amelia Frump and the Billion-Cajillion Dollar Adventure by Debbie Roppolo, illustrated by Ethan Pluimer
Oscar the Osprey and the Council Quandary by Edward Martin Polansky, illustrated by Jean Rosow
The Banana from Space and Other Stories from Riverstone by Olga Podoprigora
The Bronson Escapades by Alison Bellringer
Children’s Nonfiction
1st Place (tie):
A Positive Affirmations Storybook-I Am a Powerful Black Girl: True Stories, Journal Prompts & Poems to Inspire Unstoppable Confidence and Deep Self-Love by Serena James
Fearless Girls: 20 Inspiring True Stories for Amazing Black Girls Like Me: Incredible Tales of Courageous Black Women Who Shaped History, Motivating Kids to Reach for the Stars by Serena James
2nd Place: Japanese Cooking with Kids: 50 Kid-Tested Recipes to Make Together! by Debra Samuels and Mayumi Uejima-Carr
Honorable Mention:
Moments with Britan A Therapy Dog by Barbara J. Peters, illustrated by Joan Coleman
Bella and Bird Explore Anger by Deana Plaskon
Ignite Your Ideas: Creativity for Kids by Joanne Foster
Catching Waves: A Board, a Pig, and How a Little Girl Became a Wakesurf Champion byDawn Hooks
The Perfectly Beautiful Day by Dora Dillistone
The Red Fox Families of San Juan Island by Sylvia M. Medina and Marcia Walters, illustrated by Andreas Wessel-Therhorn
Grandma’s Bucket of Mercy by Robin Carole
Children’s Poetry Books
1st Place: A Positive Affirmations Storybook-I Am a Powerful Black Girl: True Stories, Journal Prompts & Poems to Inspire Unstoppable Confidence and Deep Self-Love by Serena James
2nd Place (tie):
The Roll-Away Snowman by Junia Wonders, illustrated by Daniela Volpari
Sunflowers Rise in a Midnight Sky by Avery Davis, illustrated by Tang Wei
Honorable Mention:
When I RAWR Like A Dinosaur by Richie Bandoy, illustrated by Omayra Michael
The Way the Cookie Crumbled by Lizzy Judge
A Day to Play by Jennifer Butenas, illustrated by Shennen Bersani
Margot and the Wise Turtle by Brennan O’Dea, illustrated by Stefi Baum
Claiming Her Crown (Butterfly Princess Book 4) by Alisa Hope Wagner, illustrated by Albert Morales
Margot and the Wise Turtle by Brennan O’Dea, illustrated by Stefi Baum
Coffee Table & Gift Books
1st Place: 100 Objects from the Collections of the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research by Stefanie Halpern
2nd Place: Journey Through the Lens by J.S. Roppolo
Collection of Short Stories
1st Place: The Boy Who Cried Wolf! And Other Great Stories with Lessons by Uzma Farooq, Samir and Amani Ahmad
Comic Books
Honorable Mention:
Along Came Spider-The Making of a Superhero (The Web Society Book 1) by Michele L Sayre, illustrated by Alexander AP Perez
Cookbooks
1st Place: Japanese Cooking with Kids: 50 Kid-Tested Recipes to Make Together! by Debra Samuels and Mayumi Uejima-Carr
2nd Place: Cooking with Judith by Judith Briles
Cultural Diversity
1 st Place: Arabic Folktales for Children by Hadil Ghoneim, illustrated by Ayah Khamis
2 nd Place: Luka and Little Feather by Ashlee Alicea, illustrated by Nix Doxtater
Honorable Mention:
The Chinaberry Tree by Jerome Saintjones
Camila on Wheels! by Nayeli Perez, illustrated by Marco Perez
If Crows Could Talk by Debz Hobbs-Wyatt
Education
1st Place: Vademecum of English. A Complete Reference Guide for Teachers and Learners by Ana María López Jimeno
2nd Place: Japanese Cooking with Kids: 50 Kid-Tested Recipes to Make Together! by Debra Samuels and Mayumi Uejima-Carr
Honorable Mention:
Arabic Folktales for Children by Hadil Ghoneim, illustrated by Ayah Khamis
Fiesta de letras by Yudit González Pérez, illustrated by Alynor Díaz
Bella and Bird Explore Anger by Deana Plaskon
Doc’s Dog Days (A Hickory Doc’s Activity Book) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
Sea Star Cookies: Fearful Fergus Learns Water Safety by Sarah Chaires, illustrated by Elizabeth Tortora
Addison’s Delaware Discovery by Laura James
Fiction: Novel
1st Place: The Summer Knows by Sarah E. Pearsall
2nd Place: Born Posthumous by Fish Nealman
Honorable Mention:
Fox Creek: Book 1 of the Fox Creek Plantation Trilogy by M. E. Torrey
The Big Bad by Brad Huestis
Mud Season by Jeff Kramer
Pictures of My Desire by Caroline Igra
The Gourmet Club by Michael A. Kahn
The Last Patient by Tudor Alexander
The Way of Lucherium by Christopher Rziha
To Die Is Different Than Supposed: a Novel by Alissa Butterworth
Whisper: Book One by Alison Bellringer
Journey of Sea, Heart and Land by Jaime Gutierrez
Simpleman by Michael Scott Curnes
Toward the Stars by Seoyoung Chang
General
1st Place: Catching Waves: A Board, a Pig, and How a Little Girl Became a Wakesurf Champion by Dawn Hooks
2nd Place: Grandma’s Bucket of Mercy by Robin Carole
Graphic Novel
1st Place: Sparrow: A Poetry Comic by Dale Rogers
2nd Place: How to Defeat Bully Brain: Family Accommodations by Ella Kim, illustrated by Andi Andriansyah
Green Books/Environmental
1st Place: Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
2nd Place: What We Can Do: A Climate Optimist’s Guide to Sustainable Living by Charlie Sellars
Honorable Mention:
The Adventures of Wally the Wrapper by Ryan Hartford, illustrated by Nadzir Studios
Whisper: Book One by Alison Bellringer
The Perfectly Beautiful Day by Dora Dillistone
Health, Diet, Nutrition
1st Place: The Biology of Trauma: How the Body Holds Fear, Pain, and Overwhelm, and How to Heal It by Aimie Apigian MD
2nd Place: Japanese Cooking with Kids: 50 Kid-Tested Recipes to Make Together! by Debra Samuels and Mayumi Uejima-Carr
Historical Fiction
1st Place: Asa James by Jodi Lew-Smith
2nd Place: Ghost Train by Natalie Jacobsen
Honorable Mention:
Fox Creek: Book 1 of the Fox Creek Plantation Trilogy by M. E. Torrey
Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky by Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis
The Secret Rise, book 3 by Judith Briles
Paradigm Shift by Anthony Muss
History Nonfiction
1st Place: 100 Objects from the Collections of the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research by Stefanie Halpern
2nd Place: Kings of Stone: The Hittite Enigma by R Jay Driskill
Honorable Mention:
Mrs. Orcutt’s Driveway: A Legendary Road - An Unstoppable Woman by C. V. Wooster
Auke-wingeke-tawso, or, ‘Defender of His Country’: The Circumstances & Services of Charles Michel de Langlade (1729 – 1800) by Cody Cole
Holiday
1st Place: Russell’s First Christmas by Javier Mayol, illustrated by Natalia Elina
2nd Place: Eleven Pennies, A Christmas Story by Diane Green
Honorable Mention:
The Valentine Lines by TK Sheffield
Witch’s Dinner by Lindsay Ann Fink, illustrated by Anna Ishchenko
How-To
1st Place: The Non-Obvious Guide to Drawing Your Future: Solve Problems, Explain Ideas, Sell Anything by Patti Dobrowolski
Humor
1st Place: The Valentine Lines by TK Sheffield
2nd Place: Spooks and Growls by Daniel Green, illustrated by Mark Nino Balita
LGBTQ+
1st Place: Simpleman by Michael Scott Curnes
2nd Place: Journey of Sea, Heart and Land by Jaime Gutierrez
Honorable Mention:
Blood on the Icehouse Wall by Jessica Meats
Middle Grade Fiction
1st Place (tie):
Carter Knox and the Lost Legacy by Michael Hockwater
The Golden Girl-Destined To Be A Star: Soccer Books For Kids 8-12 by Terrence Armstrong
The Quarterback Who Became A Legend: Football Books For Kids 8-12 by Terrence Armstrong
2nd Place: A Nose Apart: The Fourth Adventure by Deborah Edmisten
Honorable Mention:
Eliza Jane Finds Her Dog Squad by Debra Whiting Alexander and Eliza Kelley
The Idea Miners: The Lost Lake Dig by P. W. Cross
The Idea Miners: The Twisted Tree Dig by P. W. Cross
Buried Secrets of the Copper Locket: A Hannah Hallie Hawkins History Mystery by D.L. Bush
Daniel the Different and the Unfinished Prophecy by Vaughn Thompson and Ty Thompson
Seventeen Missions to Save the World by Leyth Sharaf
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest: Dr. K’s Portal Through Time by Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis
The Language of Fragments by Lynne Goldsmith
The Tale of the Orphan Magician by Dr. Bill Senyard
Obesseus World War Food by D.T. Tucker
The Forgotten Town of Wash Woods by Danielle Simone, illustrated by David Pfendler
Emily Swan and the Dream Pillow by Mary L. Peers
Peter Little Wing by Regan W. H. Macaulay, illustrated by Gordon Bagshaw
Rolo on the Planet of the Cats by Hans Ness, illustrated by Sofia Komarenko
The Wall Between The Woods by Arthur Wharton, illustrated by Emilie Maino
Military
1 st Place: Steel Soldier: Guadalcanal Odyssey by James J. Messina and Charles Messina
Mystery
1st Place: Last of the Autumn Rain by Diana Webb
2nd Place: Doctor Witch by Frank Edwards
Honorable Mention:
The Miniature Murder by Deborah Edmisten
Faery Academy of QuillSnap: Night of the Purple Moon by Jacqueline Reinig
Reprisal Road by Lynn-Steven Johanson
Known But Unknown by A. Eveline
New Author: Fiction
1st Place (tie):
The Gift by Laura-Lee Blackmore, illustrated by Paul Schultz
At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak, illustrated by Anastasiya Halionka
2nd Place: Brave Buddy’s Big Mission by Gianna Scipione, illustrated by Michelle Mayhall
Honorable Mention:
Ghost Train by Natalie Jacobsen
Amora Fedora and the Great Hat Trick by Pauline Ho, illustrated by Mark Beech
Buried Secrets of the Copper Locket: A Hannah Hallie Hawkins History Mystery by D.L. Bush
Christopher Finds a Castle by Caleb Lee, illustrated by Anastasia Shakh
Flash of Fire by A.L. Wyss
Mud Season by Jeff Kramer
Turning Toward Eden by Cate Touryan
Seventeen Missions to Save the World by Leyth Sharaf
Creed of Legends by A.K. Kubica, illustrated by Serge Victor
Lucy’s Fantastic Flying Adventure by Pauline Chan, illustrated by D. Thomas
Margot and the Wise Turtle by Brennan O’Dea, illustrated by Stefi Baum
The Son of Poetry by P.M. Gill
Sleep Like A Polar Bear by Kyle Richard Olson
Chris Kringle and the Jingle Squad by Sheryl Hilton, illustrated by Nia Quin
The Assays of Ata by K.I. S.
New Author: Nonfiction
1 st Place (tie):
WARNING: Short Stories for Middle School Boys Only, Because Girls Have Cooties! by Gene Miller
Forever Fly Free: One Woman’s Story of Resilience and the Power of Hope and Love by Jenny Brandemuehl
2nd Place: The Parlor Room by Lauren Naomi
Honorable Mention:
What We Can Do: A Climate Optimist’s Guide to Sustainable Living by Charlie Sellars
Bella and Bird Explore Anger by Deana Plaskon
Ralphie and the Trash Bash by Tammy Brighton-Craig, illustrated by Emily Watson
9 Wonder Words: A Language for Living Well—Even When All Hell Breaks Loose by Lucy Turner
Other Nonfiction
1st Place: Empathic Evolution: An Invitation from the Council of We by Jennifer Elizabeth Moore
2nd Place: Blue Bubble Gum by Martha Goldner
Parenting
1st Place: Bringing Up The World: How To Finally Focus On What Matters & Watch The Child Bloom by Danielle C Baker
2nd Place: Hope For Moms by Anna McArthur
Honorable Mention:
Bella and Bird Explore Anger by Deana Plaskon
Mommy is Here! After a Long Day at the Hospital by Nathalie Suarez Moscoso, illustrated by Edison Cano Cevallos
The 7 Days: The Daily Flow by Deborah Burns
Whisper: Book One by Alison Bellringer
Picture Books 5 & Younger
1st Place (tie):
Brave Buddy’s Big Mission by Gianna Scipione, illustrated by Michelle Mayhall
No Books For Benjamin? by R.G. de Rouen, illustrated by Uliana Barabash
The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors by Nielle P. Marques
The Roll-Away Snowman by Junia Wonders, illustrated by Daniela Volpari
2nd place (tie):
When I RAWR Like A Dinosaur by Richie Bandoy, illustrated by Omayra Michael
Monsters Don’t Say Meep: Even the tiniest roar can make the biggest difference by Bridgetta Tomarchio and Lucian Merk
Honorable Mention:
Camila on Wheels! by Nayeli Perez, illustrated by Marco Perez
Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to School by A.M. Berkowitz, illustrated by Nifty Illustration
I Love You More by Hannah Bates, illustrated by Spahic Danira
The Adventures of Mrs. Crockess and Ivy: No Pockets? No Problem! by Julia Kolouch, illustrated by Petros Bouloubasis
The Tale of Tondra by Janet Tlachac-Toonen
Annie and the Cabbage Chicken by Deonie Finkbeiner, illustrated by Ellen Rahner
Just Enough Room for Christmas by Robin Currie, illustrated by Estelle Corke
Bajette’s Balloon by Claudia Colonna, illustrated by Ed Hose
Cal Has Three Legs by Sasha Milena Filipovich, illustrated by Dalia Vukmirovich
Ooops! by Jennifer Kurani
A Day To Play by Jennifer Butenas, illustrated by Shennen Bersani
A Day on the Brine by Susea Spray, illustrated by Emma Stuart
Clea’s Rescue Squad by Linda Rae Schaal
Minnie’s Science Spectacular! by Jessica Azenberg, illustrated by Li Liu
The Adventures of Marie and LeeLee by Lisa Cortez, illustrated by Laura Watson
Athena’s Special Valentine by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Daisy, Minnie, and the Sugar Plum Kitty by Jessica Azenberg, illustrated by Li Liu
Athena the Anxious Shepherd by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Joey’s Preschool Jitters by Susan Cueto, illustrated by Thomas Brooks
Margot and the Wise Turtle by Brennan O’Dea, illustrated by Stefi Baum
SwimBee by Barbara Lynn Greif
Where are you, Hugh MacCoo? by Ruth Amanda
Logan and the Missing Masterpiece by Christine Ricci-McNamee, illustrated by Amy Avery-Smith
Witch’s Dinner by Lindsay Ann Fink, illustrated by Anna Ishchenko
Because of My Teacher by Carly Hanson, illustrated by Doha Koma
Guess What Gus Wants by Fairey S. Newbern
Hemi Bunny Finds a Mommy by Nicole Metas, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Inside Day: Take the Dog Out by Lynne Dempsey, illustrated by Mandy Newham-Cobb
Let’s Think Silly by Angel Micarelli
Mikey’s Place by Steve Giddings
Raphael Raccoon Does Not Like Change by Chris Stuart, illustrated by Kiran Akram
Sometimes the Earth Shakes by Jeff Pelton
The Enchanted Kingdom of Cats by Karen Katz, illustrated by Franci Duperron
Picture Books 6 & Older
1st Place (tie):
Brave Buddy’s Big Mission by Gianna Scipione, illustrated by Michelle Mayhall
No Books For Benjamin? by R.G. de Rouen, illustrated by Uliana Barabash
The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors by Nielle P. Marques
The Roll-Away Snowman by Junia Wonders, illustrated by Daniela Volpari
2nd place (tie):
When I RAWR Like A Dinosaur by Richie Bandoy, illustrated by Omayra Michael
Monsters Don’t Say Meep: Even the tiniest roar can make the biggest difference by Bridgetta Tomarchio and Lucian Merk
Honorable Mention:
Camila on Wheels! by Nayeli Perez, illustrated by Marco Perez
Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to School by A.M. Berkowitz, illustrated by Nifty
Illustration
I Love You More by Hannah Bates, illustrated by Spahic Danira
The Adventures of Mrs. Crockess and Ivy: No Pockets? No Problem! by Julia Kolouch,
illustrated by Petros Bouloubasis
The Tale of Tondra by Janet Tlachac-Toonen
Annie and the Cabbage Chicken by Deonie Finkbeiner, illustrated by Ellen Rahner
Just Enough Room for Christmas by Robin Currie, illustrated by Estelle Corke
Bajette’s Balloon by Claudia Colonna, illustrated by Ed Hose
Cal Has Three Legs by Sasha Milena Filipovich, illustrated by Dalia Vukmirovich
Ooops! by Jennifer Kurani
A Day To Play by Jennifer Butenas, illustrated by Shennen Bersani
A Day on the Brine by Susea Spray, illustrated by Emma Stuart
Clea’s Rescue Squad by Linda Rae Schaal
Minnie’s Science Spectacular! by Jessica Azenberg, illustrated by Li Liu
The Adventures of Marie and LeeLee by Lisa Cortez, illustrated by Laura Watson
Athena’s Special Valentine by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Daisy, Minnie, and the Sugar Plum Kitty by Jessica Azenberg, illustrated by Li Liu
Athena the Anxious Shepherd by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Joey’s Preschool Jitters by Susan Cueto, illustrated by Thomas Brooks
Margot and the Wise Turtle by Brennan O’Dea, illustrated by Stefi Baum
SwimBee by Barbara Lynn Greif
Where are you, Hugh MacCoo? by Ruth Amanda
Logan and the Missing Masterpiece by Christine Ricci-McNamee, illustrated by Amy Avery-
Smith
Witch’s Dinner by Lindsay Ann Fink, illustrated by Anna Ishchenko
Because of My Teacher by Carly Hanson, illustrated by Doha Koma
Guess What Gus Wants by Fairey S. Newbern
Hemi Bunny Finds a Mommy by Nicole Metas, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Inside Day: Take the Dog Out by Lynne Dempsey, illustrated by Mandy Newham-Cobb
Let’s Think Silly by Angel Micarelli
Mikey’s Place by Steve Giddings
Raphael Raccoon Does Not Like Change by Chris Stuart, illustrated by Kiran Akram
Sometimes the Earth Shakes by Jeff Pelton
The Enchanted Kingdom of Cats by Karen Katz, illustrated by Franci Duperron
Poetry
1st Place: Exits by Stephen Pollock
2nd Place: Stories We Didn’t Tell by Anna Citrino
Honorable Mention:
Navigation by Linda Neal Reising
Tomorrow’s Rain by Andrew Daniels
Small Earthly Space by Marjorie Maddox, illustrated by Karen Elias
Psychology
1st Place (tie):
9 Wonder Words: A Language for Living Well—Even When All Hell Breaks Loose by Lucy Turner
Springboard: Transform Stress to Work for You by Dr. Rebecca Heiss
2nd Place: Deeply Human by Dr James P. Manning
Honorable Mention:
Bella and Bird Explore Anger by Deana Plaskon
How to Defeat Bully Brain: Family Accommodations by Ella Kim, illustrated by Andi Andriansyah
Relationships
Honorable Mention:
Whisper: Book One by Alison Bellringer
Sam’s Birthday Present by Lucie Z. Rotundo, illustrated by Michelle Simspon
Grandma’s Bucket of Mercy by Robin Carole
Religion/Spirituality
1st Place: Empathic Evolution: An Invitation from the Council of We by Jennifer ElizabethMoore
2nd Place: Faith in the Unseen by Vanessa Smith
Honorable Mention:
Glow Up! Self-Love and Spirituality for Teens by Charlotte Swift
Two Stitches and a Patch by Dr. Terry Megli and Robert Lofthouse
The Infinity Within: Break Through Fear, Trust Your Inner Power, and Create a Life That
Reflects Who You Truly Are by Kris Land
The Perfect Little Angel by Liz T. Beaton, illustrated by Andrea Brasier
The Extraordinary Journey of an Ordinary Dragonfly by John Fuller, illustrated by Aletha Heyman
Margot and the Wise Turtle by Brennan O’Dea, illustrated by Stefi Baum
Romance
1st Place: Wrecked By You (Wilder Horizons): A Spicy Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Contemporary Romantic Comedy by Kate Sweden
2nd Place: The Game by Eve M Riley
Honorable Mention:
A Bollywood Romance by Anu Koduri
The Valentine Lines by TK Sheffield
When Dreams Float by Dorothy Elizabeth Love
Journey of Sea, Heart and Land by Jaime Gutierrez
Science & Technology
1st Place: Transcend: Unlocking Humanity in the Age of AI by Faisal Hoque
2nd Place: Tech Confidential: The Insider’s Playbook for Daring Entrepreneurs by Denise and Kathryn Koessler Gosnell and Erickson
Honorable Mention:
Race to Innovation: Unleashing the Power of Entrepreneurship For Everyone by John and Roy Bamforth and Zwahlen
Science Fiction/Fantasy
1st Place (tie):
Eldryan Elders by S.G. Blaise
The Poe Consequence by Keith Steinbaum
2nd Place: Imber by Deborah Mistina
Honorable Mention:
Poisoned Pawn by K. L. Vincent
The Quest For Freedom by Matthew Devitt, illustrated by Alejandro Colucci
In Liew of Flowers by Keith Steinbaum
The Book of Chaos by Ray Strong
The Song of Hadariah by Alisse Lee Goldenberg
Blood and Water by MJE Clubb
Creed of Legends by A.K. Kubica, illustrated by Serge Victor
Blood on the Icehouse Wall by Jessica Meats
Silken Dragons: Book Three of the Seafourthe Saga by Daniel McKenzie
The Neurodiversiverse: Alien Encounters by Anthony Francis and Liza Olmsted
The Pentacle, The Madigan Chronicles book 6 by Marieke Lexmond
The Seekers: Perrin Peters by Anton Anderson
The Son of Poetry by P.M. Gill
Emily Swan and the Dream Pillow by Mary L. Peers
Stolen Planet by Ian E Slatter
Balthazar An End-Times Story by Diane Green
Darke Realms: One Tough Temporary She Alpha (Arcana 2) by Christina Cartwright
Journey of a Forsaken Rose by Kenneth Kelly
The Assays of Ata by K.I. S.
The Butterfly Tales: Jaelyn by Nadja Losbohm
The Man Who Rode Dragons by TJ Boyer
Self-Help/Inspirational
1 st Place (tie):
9 Wonder Words: A Language for Living Well—Even When All Hell Breaks Loose by Lucy Turner
Cultivating Audacity: Dismantle Doubt and Let Yourself Win by Anne Marie Anderson
2nd Place: 10 Little Rules for a Double-Butted Adventure by Teri M Brown
Honorable Mention:
Empathic Evolution: An Invitation from the Council of We by Jennifer Elizabeth Moore
The Gift by Laura-Lee Blackmore, illustrated by Paul Schultz
The Obstacle Course by Neal R. Voron
The Manifestation Frequency: Hidden Ancient Secrets Revealed to Awaken the Power
Within by Roy Waugh
The Power of the Only: Own Your Voice, Thrive in Any Environment by Angela Chee
Jaxon’s Magic Eyes: Color Blindness from My View by Jaxon Corey Heidi Rodis
Whisper: Book One by Alison Bellringer
Ralphie’s First Ripple by Tammy Brighton-Craig, illustrated by Emily Watson
A Boy with a Torn Shirt by Diane Green
The Power to Rise Above by Sandy Davies, illustrated by Sheryl J Burchill
Special Needs/Disability Awareness
1st Place: Elephants DO Forget: How Emory Found His Memory by P.E. Shadrick, illustrated by Amanda Letcher
2nd Place: Eliza Jane Finds Her Dog Squad by Debra Whiting Alexander and Eliza Kelley
Honorable Mention:
Pixie the Pig Is a Super Unique Beast: A Heartfelt Social-Emotional Learning Book About
Autism, Sensory Differences, and Friendship by Beth Davis
The Bounce Out the Stigma Buddies Present: Never Give Up! by Mike Simmel
The Neurodiversiverse: Alien Encounters by Anthony Francis and Liza Olmsted
Sleep Like A Polar Bear by Kyle Richard Olson
How to Defeat Bully Brain: Family Accommodations by Ella Kim, illustrated by Andi
Andriansyah
Dinosaurs for Dylan by Tracy Gulovsen, illustrated by Renate Potter
Rue the Rainbow Raccoon: A Tale of Friendship and Neurodiversity by Katie Reed
Super allergy Boy by Louiza Amouri
The Right Now! Kid: I Can Help by Robin Korejko
Sports
1st Place: Game Changers: Inspirational Sports Stories by Dan Gold
STEM
1st Place: Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
2nd Place: Lost in Bone Cave by Danielle Simone, illustrated by David Pfendler
Honorable Mention:
The Adventrues of Syd: The Forgotten Town of Wash Woods by Danielle Simone
Glitter the Unicorn Loves to Color on the Moon by Callie Chapman, illustrated by Bronwyne Chapman
Miko and the Thinking Machine by Annie Nova
Travel
1st Place: Milko by Samuel Narh, illustrated by Alisa Knatko
Website
1st Place: Eldryan Elders by S.G. Blaise
2nd Place: The Quest For Freedom by Matthew Devitt, illustrated by Alejandro Colucci
Honorable Mention:
Exits by Stephen Pollock
Witch’s Dinner by Lindsay Ann Fink, illustrated by Anna Ishchenko
Westerns
1st Place: Will Rogers and His Great Inspiration by Bart Taylor
2nd Place: Home of the Spirit Animals by Cyd Raschke
Young Adult Fiction
1st Place (tie):
Tailspin by Joan Buchanan
Losing Austin by Michael J. Bowler
Ghost Train by Natalie Jacobsen
2nd Place: The Hopeling by Maggie Master
Honorable Mention:
100 Years to Extinction: The Tyranny of Technology and the Fight for a Better Future by Peter Solomon
Bad Love Medicine (The Bad Love Series Book 4) by Kevin Schewe
The Book of Chaos by Ray Strong
The Song of Hadariah by Alisse Lee Goldenberg
Home of the Spirit Animals by Cyd Raschke
Heightened: Project Evolve by Kevin Morris
The Language of Fragments by Lynne Goldsmith
The Other Road by Carlos Perez
Whisper: Book One by Alison Bellringer
Mission: Red Scythe: A James Vagus Teen Espionage Thriller (James Vagus Thrillers) by C.W. James
Blood on the Icehouse Wall by Jessica Meats
Journey of Sea, Heart and Land by Jaime Gutierrez
The Son of Poetry by P.M. Gill
Young Adult Nonfiction
1st Place (tie):
WARNING: Short Stories for Middle School Boys Only, Because Girls Have Cooties! by Gene Miller
Japanese Cooking with Kids: 50 Kid-Tested Recipes to Make Together! by Debra Samuels and Mayumi Uejima-Carr
2nd Place: Game Changers: Inspirational Sports Stories by Dan Gold
Honorable Mention:
Glow Up! Self-Love and Spirituality for Teens by Charlotte Swift
Youth Author Fiction
1st Place: Seventeen Missions to Save the World by Leyth Sharaf
2nd Place: How to Defeat Bully Brain: Family Accomodations by Ella Kim, illustrated by Andi Andriansyah
Honorable Mention:
Christopher Finds a Castle by Caleb Lee, illustrated by Anastasia Shakh
Glitter the Unicorn Loves to Color on the Moon by Callie Chapman, illustrated by Bronwyne
Chapman
Let’s Create a Kindness Chain by Ashley Nevison
Cloud Jail: A story about OCD by Chaeyoon Lee
Granny’s Journey by Jiwon Hwang and Riwon Hwang
Toward the Stars by Seoyoung Chang
Youth Author Nonfiction
1st Place: Faith in the Unseen by Vanessa Smith
2nd Place: My New Kentucky Home by Ashley Nevison