This past Friday (May 8), I was honored to receive the Independent Book Publisher’s Association Benjamin Franklin Gold Award for the top book title in the “Self Help” category. These prestigious awards recognize excellence in writing and design and are regarded as one of the highest national honors for independent book writers and publishers.
Hundreds of authors applied for this year’s Benjamin Franklin awards; to claim the top honor in their book category. My most recent book, Your Turn: Ways to Celebrate Life Through Storytelling, was a unique honor, especially with so many other deserving and accomplished nominees.
What is even more incredible is that this is the second time one of my books has IBPA Gold Award! In 2016, my first book, Where the Water Meets the Sand, received the top honor, as part of an in-person ceremony, in the “memoir” category. It was a tremendous honor then, and it is a tremendous honor now to receive two awards in less than five years.
Although this year’s awards program was virtual – a bit unconventional but expected during the coronavirus pandemic – it was still engaging and fun to watch the online announcements for all of this year’s winners! As you can see on the television behind me in the photo below, I was at home in Texas and wore my favorite cowboy hat. Those authors who were Everyone sent in their speeches for winning the awards, and it was fun to learn about all the other authors who had published great independent book titles this past year.
When my category was announced, and the committee said I had won the Gold Award, I almost fell out of my chair with excitement! Surrounded by family and friends made this experience even more special. And, I wore my black straw cowgirl hat because I am a born and bred Texan. How could I not?
I thank She Writes Press, IBPA, and all the great people who helped me make this special book a reality. Your Turn is a powerful celebration of storytelling and empowers others to tell their own personal narratives in a way that gives them encouragement, hope, and happiness.
Below is the award announcement video that includes my acceptance speech! For those who read Your Turn – what is your favorite part of the book? What lessons have been able to take away/share with others after reading Your Turn?
Please click on the words “Self-Help” in turquoise (in the photo above) to see and hear the video I presented at the Virtual Awards Ceremony for IBPA. I am over the moon!
© 2020 Tyra Manning
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