The PenCraft Book Awards has announced the runner-up winners of its 2025 competition, highlighting a diverse array of literary talent from authors worldwide. The awards, now in their ninth year, received numerous submissions across more than 100 genres, making the selection process particularly challenging for the judging panel.
David Hearne, Editor-In-Chief of the PenCraft Book Awards, emphasized the significance of these honors. "We are incredibly proud to celebrate these talented authors and the remarkable achievements they have accomplished in their literary journeys. Their work is a testament to their craft," Hearne said in a statement.
Among the runner-up winners are books spanning children's literature, fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and young adult genres. Notable titles include Treasure of the North by Minda Gomez (Children - 4th-6th), The Dryad's Crown by David Hopkins (Fiction - Fantasy), Non-Obvious Thinking by Rohit Bhargava and Ben duPont (Non Fiction - Business/Finance), and Becoming HER by Monica Yates (Non Fiction - Self Help). The complete list of winners is available on the PenCraft Book Awards website.
The PenCraft Book Awards were founded to level the playing field for authors, regardless of their publisher or budget. Unlike many literary contests that charge high entry fees or restrict participation based on publishing house, PenCraft offers an inclusive platform where all authors can compete equally. "Our awards help struggling authors get noticed and sold. Our goal is to showcase talented new authors and their extraordinary stories," Hearne explained.
This year's runner-up list reflects the organization's commitment to promoting excellence in the literary arts. The winning books represent remarkable craftsmanship and offer readers new perspectives on the human experience. From historical fiction like No Leaves in Autumn by Terri Wangard to science fiction such as Galacticide by Bert-Oliver Boehmer, the selection underscores the depth of storytelling in contemporary literature.
The announcement comes as the publishing industry continues to evolve, with independent authors gaining greater recognition. The PenCraft Book Awards have become a significant milestone for many writers, providing validation and exposure. For authors like Lisa Ferland, whose Ruby and the Off-Road Rally won in Children - K-3rd - General, the award can be a career boost.
As the literary world becomes increasingly competitive, awards like PenCraft help authors stand out. The runner-up designation itself carries weight, signaling to readers and booksellers that these books have been vetted for quality. The full list of winners and more information about the awards can be found at pencraftaward.com.
The PenCraft Book Awards remain dedicated to supporting authors worldwide. With hundreds of nominations each year, only the best receive the PenCraft Book Award, making it a coveted recognition in the literary community.
