Previous Finalists

What Authors Say

'You are doing good work through the Wishing Shelf Book Awards. It is unparalleled. There is no other literary competition that is as open and approachable. There is no other more grounded. There is not one that watches more closely over both the simultaneous needs of its recipient readers, and its contributing authors. I cannot fully fathom the full weight of the time and commitment required to bring it to fruition, year after year, but I, as many others, am grateful for it, and for your commitment to it. If it did not exist, we would desperately need for it to be created.'

Stephen Wagner, author of Time Sheets

'The Wishing Shelf Book Awards Program is a well-run, credible book awards program. The organizer and founder, Edward, communicates with his contest entrants on a regular basis both through regular emails and on its Facebook page, The Wishing Shelf Independent Book Award. Where the program goes above and beyond other independent book award programs, is that the awards program is part of encouraging a community of independent authors in a collaborative and supportive spirit. Amidst a multitude of contests aimed at independent authors, the WSBA program is consistently ranked as credible, good value for the money, and ethical. I recommend the Wishing Shelf Book Awards Program without reservation, and am glad I was able to find out about it.'

Katrina Shawver, author of Henry: A Polish Swimmer’s True Story of Friendship from Auschwitz to America

'The Wishing Shelf Awards have everything I look for in an awards program. Their prizes are based on the evaluations of readers…and not just one or two. My 2017 entry received feedback from more than a dozen people. And all of these individuals worked from a set of specific criteria provided by the program. So, rather than a popularity contest, I received specific, actionable feedback that will help me improve my craft. I’ll be entering the Awards again, as soon as my next book is complete.'

Bruce M Perrin, author of In the Space of an Atom

'The Wishing Shelf Book Awards remains one of the last true award contests. Books are rated according to editing, theme, style, cover, and story and those that win should be very proud. It's refreshing to see a book contest, judged my actual readers who are in the target audience of each work. The critique and feedback proved helpful in refining my story, and I even saw some sales from the advertising that Billy Bob Buttons did on our behalf."

Thanks again for everything!'

Julie Hall, author of Huntress

'The Wishing Shelf competition is a unique awards process that provides helpful feedback that is real. It comes from readers who read a lot. They honed in on points that needed work, but also articulated the strengths of the novel. What they do is to create a constructive feedback and communication loop. When there are so many ways to get meaningless input and pointless response in the internet age, this award does much more than award. They make sure your book gets the traction of serious response. Very recommended.'

Michael Pronko, author of The Last Train