It’s National Book Award Week—a time to celebrate outstanding books and the authors who wrote them. While national award programs often recognize traditionally published works, self-published authors shouldn’t underestimate the power of book awards. Winning or even being nominated for the right awards can open doors, boost credibility and dramatically increase visibility.
At Outskirts Press, we know how valuable recognition can be, which is why we offer a wide range of Book Award Submission Services designed to give your work the best chance to shine.
Why Book Awards Are Important for Indie Authors
1. Boosts Credibility
An award sticker on your book cover instantly signals quality and professionalism to readers, booksellers and librarians. For self-published authors competing in a crowded marketplace, that extra level of trust can make all the difference.
2. Increases Discoverability
Many awards programs feature winners and finalists on their websites, newsletters and press releases—exposing your book to new readers, reviewers and industry professionals who may not have discovered it otherwise.
3. Drives Sales
Books with awards or nominations often see an uptick in sales, especially when marketed as an “award-winning” title. Parents, educators and gift-buyers in particular are more likely to purchase a book that has outside recognition.
4. Opens New Opportunities
Awards can lead to invitations for interviews, speaking engagements and even consideration for film or foreign rights deals. They position you as a serious author worthy of broader attention.
Outskirts Press Book Award Services
Submitting to awards can be time-consuming, with different categories, eligibility rules, deadlines, and submission requirements. Outskirts Press makes it easy by handling all the details for you.
Some of our popular award submission options include:
- Book Awards Submission Bundle – Enter multiple awards at once with one simple order.
- American Book Fest Best Book Awards – High visibility with broad categories for all genres.
- Foreword INDIES Book Awards – Recognizes excellence in independent publishing.
- Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards – A respected program that highlights self-published authors.
- Independent Press Book Awards – A well-regarded contest that supports indie voices across genres.
- National Indie Excellence Awards – Focuses on celebrating excellence in independent publishing.
- Next Generation Indie Book Awards – The largest nonprofit awards program for indie authors, offering strong credibility.
- Reader Views Literary Awards – Recognizes self-published authors and connects books with reviewers and readers.
- Readers’ Favorite Book Awards – Offers a mix of award recognition and professional review opportunities.
- Kirkus Guaranteed Book Review – While not an award, a positive Kirkus review can carry award-level weight in the industry.
Whether you want to focus on a single contest or cast a wider net, our services help position your book for maximum recognition.
Celebrate National Book Award Week with Confidence
As a self-published author, you’ve already achieved something extraordinary: you wrote and published a book. Now, give your book the recognition it deserves by entering it into award programs that celebrate independent voices.
With Outskirts Press, you don’t have to worry about the logistics—we’ll handle the submissions so you can focus on what matters most: writing your next book.
Explore Book Award Services Today and take the next step toward becoming an award-winning author.
When it’s time to share your story with the world, call and talk to an Outskirts Press Publishing Consultant who can help you on your journey to publication.
There are three convenient ways to connect:
- Call 1-888-672-6657
- Live chat at OutskirtsPress.com
- Schedule a free consultation with a Publishing Consultant