(IPNE — Independent Publishers of New England — is a sister organization of BAIPA.)
If you, or any of your authors, published a book in 2022, 2023, or early 2024 (or in our continuing legacy series, a work specifically of nonfiction anytime back to 2010), consider entering it in the 2024 Book Awards hosted by the Independent Publishers of New England.
This is a modest book awards program — though we’ve been gaining industry traction! — but we’re on the level, with a fine panel of judges. The mission is to highlight excellence and to help readers, all readers, find their way to books they will love. Though this program is hosted by a group in New England, it is not a regional award. Authors need not live in, or be writing about, New England.
How does it work?
There is no nomination process. Authors or publishers can directly enter any qualified book by filling out the registration form, paying the fee ($65) online, and then sending four print copies to the address listed in the confirmation email.
Why print? Well, in part because the judges look at the whole book, but even more to the point, because print offers a superior reading experience. Readers engage more with print on the page than on the screen, and they remember more. Better for our judges, better for your or your author’s book.
Each book is evaluated by three qualified judges. Books are hand-matched to judges, with the goal of finding a great fit for every judge, every book.
The evaluation and the tallying processes run through the summer and into the late fall. Winners and finalists are honored at an online awards ceremony in January. They receive a digital certificate, a digital seal for the ebook cover, and a quote-worthy paragraph (hello, book blurb) of judging praise. The winning and finalist books are showcased on the IPNE website. We’ll also be sending out press releases to select organizations and media.
The full details for the 2024 awards cycle are here. The friendly blue button opens the reg form. (But please do read through the details first.)
You can find last year’s winners and finalists here.
Questions? Get in touch through ipnebookawards@gmail.com.
Author
One of my favorite things about BAIPA is its culture of generosity, the willingness — even eagerness — to share what we have each learned in the process of bringing stories to life. We provide educational programs, networking, marketing opportunities, encouragement, and information on industry vendors and services. And lots of one-on-one advice and mentoring.
We welcome all who have an interest in making connections within the world of independent publishing and learning more about how to publish and sell their work successfully. Together we are raising the standard of independent publishing and helping our members thrive.
Do join us!
—Becky Parker Geist, BAIPA Board of Directors, President
Quick Resources
Current BAIPA members do not need to register for our monthly meetings. The night before the meetings, they will receive the Zoom info. For workshop registration, members can buy a member ticket and will receive the Zoom info the night before the meetings, as well as in the confirmation email.
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