Previous Finalists

Comments from Authors/Publishers

'The Wishing Shelf Book Awards is a dream award and feedback venue for writers. Not only do we get to build community among other writers, the award contest becomes like a liaison, connecting writers to readers who love to read! We receive an amazing critique according to our chosen genre; plus, we get genuine feedback from our readers. The comments are both encouraging and constructive, motivating us to become more excellent at our craft. The founder of The Wishing Shelf Book Awards, Edward Trayer, is an award-winning writer himself, and he is very hands-on and involved in all aspects of the book contest, communicating effectively with both readers and writers. I highly recommend The Wishing Shelf Book Award contest as a genuine and valuable aspect of book writing, publishing, marketing and reading.'

Alisa Hope Wagner, author of Spreading Her Wings

“I had never entered my books into a competition before and so I was unsure as to what to expect. I was thrilled when I received the feedback from the judges; it was more than I expected. All the comments were so helpful and positive, it has spurred me on to consider writing more. Highly recommended.”

Daisy Burton, author of Barefoot

'I appreciate Wishing Shelf Awards and its unique reader-evaluation format. Who better to judge books than the audience they are intended for? Organizers made sure to keep entrants apprised of the contest status throughout the process.'

R. Jones Smith, author Tru Untrue

'Entering into an award or competition is a daunting task. Getting feedback for a book that has been your be-all-and-end-all is twice as daunting. Terrifying, even!
When I received the email with the feedback, I admit I left it unread for a few days while I plucked up the courage to read it. In fact, I only read it after being pushed and shoved by my friendly sisters. When I did, I was thrilled with the comments. It was clear what I could work on, but I was delighted that people seemed to have enjoyed it!
I think it's a brilliant idea for a book award to be judged by the target audience. There is no better way of finding out if you're on the right track. I know from my job as a teacher that children do not lie when it comes to giving feedback. A comment from a kid, therefore, is ranked higher than any other review, in my opinion!
Thanks Billy Bob Buttons for organising this super award. My book will wear the Red Ribbon with pride!'

Taking Wing, Clemency Crow

'I just want to thank Edward for the Wishing Shelf Awards. Why? Because I was selected as a finalist and received nothing but heartwarming approval of my work? Well, no - actually I wasn't selected as a finalist. The point is, entering your book for the Awards enters it for something more valuable (in my opinion) - an exposure of your book to the appropriate readership (in my case 9-12 year-olds), who then provide frank and honest feedback. This information is like gold dust, and allows improvements to be made for the future to further the appeal of your books. Believe me, I have gained a lot - even without "winning". I can recommend these Awards to all authors.'

T J Rogers, authors of Which Way Switch