In this Alliance of Independent Authors post, Book Award Adviser Hannah Jacobson dispels the myth that awards are only for new releases, showing how older books can remain strong contenders for recognition.
Hannah Jacobson
This is the fourth post in our 6-part series addressing common misconceptions about book awards.
One of the most persistent myths in the book award world is that you've missed your chance if your book wasn't published this year. Many authors believe that awards are only available during a book's year of publication, but this couldn't be further from the truth. The reality is refreshingly different: award opportunities exist for books before publication, during their publication year, and for many years to come.
The Publication Timeline Myth
It's easy to understand why this misconception exists. Major literary awards like the National Book Awards and Pulitzer Prize focus on recently published works, creating the impression that all awards operate this way. However, the book award landscape is far more varied and accommodating than these high-profile competitions suggest.
The truth is that award opportunities change constantly throughout the year. While some contests close their doors to older publications, new ones regularly emerge with different eligibility requirements. This creates a dynamic environment where there's always something new to consider for your book, regardless of when it was published.
The Three-Phase Award Strategy
Successful authors think about awards in three distinct phases:
Pre-Publication Phase: Some awards actually seek unpublished manuscripts. Entering during this phase allows you to build award credentials before your book even launches, creating valuable marketing material for your publication announcement.
Publication Year Phase: This is the phase most authors focus on, and rightfully so. Many awards concentrate on recent publications, making your publication year a crucial time for submissions.
Post-Publication Phase: This is where the real opportunities lie for books with staying power. Numerous awards continue accepting older titles, understanding that great books don't expire. Some authors find their biggest award success comes years after publication, when they've had time to build readership and refine their marketing approach.
Why Older Books Can Actually Have Advantages
Books that have been available for several years often possess unique advantages in award competitions. They've had time to accumulate genuine reader reviews and testimonials. Authors have had opportunities to refine their book descriptions and understand their target audience better. Some awards even appreciate books that have demonstrated staying power in the marketplace.
Additionally, authors of older books often approach award submissions with more realistic expectations and better preparation. They've moved past the initial excitement of publication and can evaluate their work more objectively.
The Ever-Changing Award Landscape
Award opportunities shift throughout the year like seasons. A contest that closes in January might reopen with different guidelines in June. New awards launch regularly while others modify their requirements.
Some awards operate on rolling deadlines, accepting submissions throughout the year. Others may skip a year then return with updated criteria. Industry changes, new judging panels, and evolving definitions of “independent publishing” all contribute to this shifting environment.
This constant evolution means that even if you researched awards thoroughly two years ago, the landscape has changed enough to warrant a fresh look.
Making the Most of Multiple Opportunities
Rather than viewing your book's age as a limitation, consider it an asset that opens different doors. Your newest publication might be perfect for current-year awards, while your backlist could excel in competitions that value proven track records.
The key is maintaining awareness of new opportunities as they arise. Your book's potential for award recognition doesn't disappear with time.
Moving Forward
The book award world offers more opportunities than most authors realize, and those opportunities extend well beyond a book's publication year. Whether your book was published last month or several years ago, awards exist that welcome your submission.
Remember: award opportunities evolve constantly, creating new possibilities for books of all ages. Your publication date doesn't define your award potential; your book's quality and your submission strategy do.
About Hannah Jacobson, ALLi Awards & Story Marketing Adviser
Hannah Jacobson is the founder of Book Award Pro: the company that leads the industry in helping authors find the perfect reviews and awards for their books.
Book Award Pro is the industry expert on accolades, operating the world's largest database of legitimate reviews and awards. Every year, authors spanning 6 continents win thousands of new awards, receive valuable reviews, and market their books in one easy-to-use platform.
Book Award Pro has been a trusted ALLi Partner Member since 2020. Hannah is the ALLi advisor for awards and story marketing, and contributes to ALLi resources including the Book Award & Contest Ratings page, Book Prizes & Awards for Indie Authors guidebook, and the Ultimate Guide to Winning Book Awards.
Begin your award-winning journey for free or connect with Hannah and Book Award Pro on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
Find out more
For more information on applying for book awards that are open to indie authors, you can purchase our short guide, available in multiple formats on our bookstore: Book Prizes & Awards for Indie Authors.
Members enjoy free access to the ebook.
Thoughts or further questions on this post or any self-publishing issue?
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Non-members looking for more information can search our extensive archive of blog posts and podcast episodes packed with tips and advice at ALLi's Self-Publishing Advice Center.
Hi Hannah,
It’s always nice to read your articles! Thank you for letting everyone know that there are still award opportunities available for older books. This can really help to revitalize a book’s relevancy. I like to call it “staying in the game!”
– Steven