In this Alliance of Independent Authors post, Book Award Adviser Hannah Jacobson explores the wide world of global book awards and how independent authors everywhere can find recognition, no matter where or how they publish.
Hannah Jacobson
This is the fifth post in our six-part series on common misunderstandings about book awards.
Picture this: You've just finished writing and publishing the book of your dreams. You're excited about finding recognition for your work, but then doubt creeps in. Maybe you worry that you're not published in New York or London, or you assume there probably aren't any meaningful awards for books like yours. This belief stops many talented authors from pursuing the recognition they deserve.
Here's the truth that might surprise you: Book awards are truly global, and there are excellent opportunities for every book, regardless of where you live or how you publish.
The Reality of Today's Global Literary World
The literary world has expanded far beyond traditional publishing centers. While prestigious awards like the Booker Prize initially focused on Commonwealth writers, many have evolved to welcome authors worldwide. The Booker Prize, for example, now spans the globe and is open to anyone regardless of origin, as long as their work is written in English and published in the UK and Ireland.
But the Booker is just one example. Countries around the world have developed their own respected literary awards that celebrate local and international voices. Canada's Governor General's Literary Awards recognize the best French and English books in seven categories, while Australia offers multiple awards including the CBCA Children's Book of the Year and the Inky Awards, which give young adults across Australia a chance to vote for their favorite releases.
Awards Welcome Independent and Self-Published Authors
Awards are becoming particularly welcoming to independent publishers and self-published authors. Many international awards have embraced this inclusive approach, recognizing that excellent writing comes from all publishing paths. This shows how the industry has evolved to embrace all forms of publishing, from traditional houses to self-published authors.
The Dynamic Nature of Award Opportunities
One of the most exciting aspects of today's award ecosystem is how dynamic it has become. New awards launch regularly, existing ones evolve their criteria, and opportunities constantly emerge for authors in every category and location.
The key is staying informed about opportunities that align with your work. Some awards focus on specific themes, others on particular demographics or publishing methods.
Finding Your Perfect (Global) Award Match
The abundance of global opportunities means there really is an award that fits your book, regardless of your location or publishing path. Whether you're a Canadian author writing historical fiction, an Australian poet, a British mystery writer, or an American self-published memoirist, awards exist that celebrate exactly what you do.
The modern literary award ecosystem recognizes that great writing comes from everywhere and takes many forms. Publishers large and small, traditional and independent, are creating work that deserves recognition. The challenge isn't finding awards that accept your type of book – it's choosing which ones align best with your goals and timeline.
As we continue to see the democratization of publishing through new technologies and platforms, literary awards have evolved to keep pace. They've become more inclusive, more global, and more accessible to authors regardless of their publishing journey.
Your geographic location, publisher size, or path to publication doesn't limit your award opportunities. It simply helps you identify which of the many excellent options might be the best fit for your particular book and career goals.
About Hannah Jacobson, ALLi Awards & Story Marketing Advisor
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?
If you’re an ALLi member, head over to the SelfPubConnect forum for support from our experienced community of indie authors, advisors, and our own ALLi team. Simply create an account (if you haven’t already) to request to join the forum and get going.
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.
