Margaret Hastings-James

Upon further research I now know what this award means…

It means a weekend in New York and complicated cocktails all around!

No seriously, this is what I found out…

The Independent Publisher Book Awards, launched in 1996, were designed to bring increased recognition to the deserving but often unsung titles published by independent authors and publishers. Established as the first awards program open exclusively to independents, the “IPPYs” recognize hundreds of the year’s best books, bringing them to the attention of booksellers, buyers, librarians, and book lovers around the world.   

Each year we see continued emergence of quality publishing from independents around the world. Over 1,500 publishers participated in the 2007 Awards, from all 50 United States, eight Canadian provinces, and 18 other countries around the world. We define “independent” as 1) independently owned and operated; 2) operated by a foundation or university; or 3) long-time independents that became incorporated but operate autonomously and publish fewer than 50 titles a year.

Awards Results Announcement and Ceremony:  three to seven semifinalists per category will be named on about May 1st; final results to be announced May 29th during a gala awards ceremony at BookExpo America in New York. 

All announced finalists in the National categories, Regional categories, and Ten Outstanding Books of the Year will receive medals and personalized certificates. A gold medal will be awarded to the winner of each category; runners-up receive silver medals, and remaining finalists in each category will receive bronze medals. Gold, silver and bronze seals will be available to all medalists in their appropriate award levels. Awards packets are presented at the BookExpo America ceremony or mailed to those unable to attend. Publicity includes the awards event, a media blitz, and year-long exposure at IndependentPublisher.com and various publishing and bookselling websites.

So there we have it. I’m thinking maybe I should  go to the Book Expo in NY at the end of the month. If nothing else, I can finally wear the boots!