Submitting your children’s storybook to an award competition in the USA can help boost your credibility as an author and increase your book’s visibility. Many competitions allow online submissions, while others require physical copies. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to successfully submit your book.
Research Children’s Book Awards in the USA
Look for awards that match your book’s genre, theme, and publication status. Here are some well-known U.S. children’s book competitions:
Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards (moonbeamawards.com)
American Writing Awards – Children’s Book International (americanwritingawards.com)
National Indie Excellence Awards (indieexcellence.com)
The Eric Hoffer Book Award (hofferaward.com)
Mom’s Choice Awards (momschoiceawards.com)
Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards (forewordreviews.com)
How to Submit Your Children’s Storybook to an Award Competition in the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide
Submitting your children’s storybook to an award competition in the USA can help boost your credibility as an author and increase your book’s visibility. Many competitions allow online submissions, while others require physical copies. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to successfully submit your book.
1. Research Children’s Book Awards in the USA
Look for awards that match your book’s genre, theme, and publication status. Here are some well-known U.S. children’s book competitions:
- Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards (moonbeamawards.com)
- American Writing Awards – Children’s Book International (americanwritingawards.com)
- National Indie Excellence Awards (indieexcellence.com)
- The Eric Hoffer Book Award (hofferaward.com)
- Mom’s Choice Awards (momschoiceawards.com)
- Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards (forewordreviews.com)
2. Check the Submission Guidelines
Each competition has different submission requirements. Common factors include:
- Eligibility (e.g., publication date, self-published vs. traditionally published)
- Format (physical book vs. eBook)
- Submission Fees (some competitions require an entry fee)
- Supporting Documents (e.g., author bio, book summary)
- Deadline (submit before the closing date)
How to Submit Your Storybook (Online vs. Mail-In Submissions)
A. Online Submissions
Most modern competitions allow online entry. Follow these steps:
1.Complete the entry form on the award’s official website.
2. Upload a digital copy (PDF, EPUB, or MOBI)
3. Pay the entry fee, if applicable.
4. Submit the form and receive confirmation via email.
B. Mail-In Submissions
Print the entry form and fill it out.
Prepare physical copies of your book (usually 2-5 copies).
Include required materials (author bio, book summary, payment proof).
Ship via a trackable method to the provided address.
Follow Up on Your Submission
Check for confirmation emails if you submitted online.
Monitor deadlines and results announcements.
Promote your entry on social media (if permitted).
What to Do If You Win or Get Recognized
Winning an award can significantly boost your book’s success. Make sure to:
Add the award logo to your book cover and marketing materials.
Announce your win on your website, social media, and press releases.
Leverage the award for more opportunities (e.g., book signings, speaking events).
Final Thoughts
Whether submitting online or by mail, carefully read the guidelines of each competition to avoid disqualification. Winning or even becoming a finalist in a children’s book competition can elevate your career as an author.