BEWARE OF SCAMMERS IN THIS SEASON

Beware: Navigating Book Award Season—What Every Author Needs to KnowAs award season approaches, excitement buzzes in the air. We all want the recognition that comes with a shiny seal on our covers and our names on “winner” lists. After all, in the world of books, an award is more than a trophy: it’s a formal recognition of excellence, an accolade that can elevate your career, open doors, and grow your audience.In short, an award is an honor bestowed upon an author or their book as a mark of distinction in literature. From game-changing titles like the Pulitzer Prize and the Booker Prize to local or genre-specific honors, earning recognition can feel like a dream come true.But before you reach for your credit card, it’s wise to ask: How much is too much to pay for a book award—and is it really an award if you have to pay for it?
Don’t Let Award Fever Cloud Your Judgement


Most prestigious literary awards, such as the Pulitzer, National Book Award, or the Booker, do not charge high submission fees. If they do, fees are purely to cover administrative costs and are never tied to your chances of winning. Instead, the focus is on literary merit and peer recognition.But as any author will tell you, inboxes and Facebook feeds flood this time of year with offers for less-known contests and so-called “awards” charging hefty sums. These are often dubbed “pay-to-play” or “vanity” awards, and while some are above board, many exist more to make money from hopeful authors than to genuinely recognize literary excellence.
What’s a Normal Fee? What Should Raise Red Flags?

• Legitimate awards might charge a reasonable submission fee—typically $25–$100—to cover judges’ stipends and promotion.
• Red flags: Fees over $150-$200 with little transparency on judges or past winners.
• Be wary if you must shell out additionally for stickers, plaques, or event attendance to “claim” your prize.

Is It Really an “Award” if You Have to Pay?


Prestige is earned, not bought. Most reputable awards require a small entry fee, but true literary achievement is never “for sale.”Consider:

• If you pay and everyone wins… is that a real achievement?
• Are judges industry professionals, librarians, or respected authors? Or does the process feel secretive and automated?
• Do you see “winners” who all seem to have self-published books, with no media attention or bookstore recognition?

Vanity awards make their money by inflating your hopes and emptying your wallet. Their recognition is rarely meaningful in the eyes of reviewers, librarians, booksellers, or readers.
What’s the Real Value of a Book Award?


A credible, merit-based award can boost your sales, attract agents, and make reviewers and bookstores pay attention. But a “pay-for-trophy” distinction—especially one easily recognized as a vanity award—can even harm your reputation.
Author’s Checklist: Stay Smart This Award Season

• Research every award. Who won last year? Who are the judges? Is it quoted in the press or respected by bookstores?
• Watch fees: $25–$100 is standard. Over $150? Investigate thoroughly.
• Be wary of extras: If you have to pay for your trophy, plaque, or gala seat, ask why.
• Don’t buy prestige: The best accolades are earned, not purchased.
• Ask the hive mind: Check in with writer groups, author societies, or publishing professionals if you’re unsure.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, reach out! Connect with other writers who’ve submitted to the same award, or ask literary advocacy groups about its reputation.
Bottom line: Awards should honor your hard work—not anyone’s ability to pay. As you chase well-deserved recognition this season, let your heart (and your research) lead the way. Prestige cannot be bought—so don’t let vanity awards sell you short.Happ