We are pleased to share that the Midwest Book Awards are now open for submission!
The window opened today, January 15, and runs through Sunday, March 15. Our gala and awards are still planned for June.
Although the timing of submissions has changed, we’re still focused on books published by small presses and independent authors in the period 12/1/2024 through 12/31/2025.
What’s New and Different
A few things are different about this year’s awards:
- Condensed categories. We’ve reduced the number of categories based on our historical submission trends. This new structure reduces the risk of some categories proceeding without a winner because no title met the minimum standards for becoming a finalist.
- Special distinctions. We’ve added several “distinctions” — awards that go beyond book categories to celebrate authors and presses. See the Categories and Distinctions page on our website for details.
- Streamlined submission process. Gone are Google Forms and PayPal links and paper checks! The information we need for your submission is now contained in a simple shopping cart item. Just complete the information in the cart and check out with your credit card. Then, mail the requisite number of books to our Midwest Book Awards coordinator in Michigan for distribution to the judges.
- Updated judging procedures. And speaking of judges, we’ve modified the criteria to be a judge and also how we evaluate books. In particular, the design categories are being carefully reviewed to ensure that books meet modern standards of excellent design.
| If you have questions about the process, please reach out to our Midwest Book Awards team of Jennifer Baum, chair, and Allison Hawkins, administrative coordinator. The best way is to reach out by email to bookawards@mipa.org. |
Thank you for being independent together with MiPA. We look forward to seeing you at a virtual member meeting soon!