So I have this weird dichotomy between wanting to be recognized for my work but being shy to publicly talk about my work. Which really limits as it’s not being shared and exposed to as many ppl as it could possible be. So I decided to shoot my shot and I submitted by book for two awards. I skimmed over the rules- apologies to any lawyers I keep on retainer, I’ll let you handle the fine print in the future lol. I will share the details of one of them since the winners have been announced.
And one of those winners is me!!!! Benji’s Berry Berry Pie took home Third Place for Children’s book in the Diversity & Multicultural category in the The Bookfest Awards Spring 2023. To step back a little, I found out about this award when I was scrolling Facebook, yes I’m going to keep calling it that and I still have it so I can keep in touch with the grown folks in my life. I’m still not familiar with all the awards that are available to Authors let alone those designed for Indie Authors. I was happy to find out that my book still qualified so figured this is a good start to understand requirements when applying for awards and encourage me to research others. The form was fairly straightforward as it asked for a book summary, book details, book cover image and I submitted a couple copies of my book to be reviewed by judges which aren’t resold but donated.
The BookFest honors authors who create outstanding works of fiction and nonfiction. The BookFest's dedication to honoring authors is rooted in a belief in the transformative power of literature and a desire to support and celebrate those who create it.
Desireé Duffy, Founder of The BookFest, says, “It is important to recognize authors for the role they play in creating and sharing stories that entertain, educate, and inspire readers. Books transport us to new worlds, broaden perspectives, and foster empathy. As the Founder of The BookFest, I believe that by saluting authors and their literary achievements we elevate the importance of literature in our society.”
I’m thrilled to be recognized by this organization and enjoyed seeing the other works that I’ll be adding to my TBR. It was a great way to find other Indie Authors and connect with them. Now let me stop procrastinating and order my award and stickers before the deadline! Another reminder for me that sometimes moving in silence only hurts yourself so let me know what you’re shooting your shot?
]]>So if you’re looking for in-depth reviews on these books you’ll be disappointed as that’s not my ministry but I do love sharing my reads and welcome conversation in the comments or my instagram page! Let me know what your fave books were from the first three months of the year.
January: All the books I read were audiobooks and I don't see myself slowing down. I can read sooo many books but I set a goal for myself to read a a physical book in February. My fave was a tie between Black Girls Must Die Exhausted and the David R Slaydon series.
Black Girls Must Die Exhausted by Jayne Allen
The Dispatcher by John Scalzi
The Scholar by Dervla McTiernan
White Trash Warlock, Trailer Park Trickster, Deadbeat Druid by David R Slayton
Dark Wolf's Awakening & Dark Wolf Forsaken by Ryan Evans
February: I did start reading a physical book, "Before I Let Go" but I ran out of time and finished via audiobook lol. A for effort right…everything else was audio only! Before I Let go was my fave!!
Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan
Murder by Other Means by John Scalzi
Witches Get Stuff Done by Molly Harper
March: Finally I read a physical copy of a book in its entirety and it was a spooky one! "White Smoke" had me questioning every creak and sound during and after a reading session. I'm going to try to read one physical book a month but if that doesn't happen it’s ok- Audiobooks got my back & However you like to read is all that matters! White Smoke was the favorite this month!
White Smoke by Tiffany D. Jackson
Travel By Bullet by John Scalzi
The Comeback by Lily Chu
]]>How did I get here? Last year the world flipped on its axis and I had to learn how to shift with it. I went from country hopping to hopping between my couch and desk. I needed an outlet and I was determined to work on my dessert game. Pies are a universal favorite, so I challenged myself to make one pie a month. I had a short list of pies that I wanted to perfect, a classic Apple, delectable Berry and Strawberry Rhubarb. I'm proud to say that I lasted several months, however, my waistline was screaming that she needed a break and I was happy to oblige. The process was fun, frustrating but most importantly fulfilling- I enjoyed seeing my progress. With my first pie the dough stuck to my hands, the pin, and the board; I needed to use more flour, but I don’t like how it feels on my hands which is another struggle. The second one I decided to step out and try a lattice top as a stretch goal and your girl was thoroughly stretched. The pieces kept falling apart as I tried laying them down which was annoying, so I didn’t try to weave it but place it gingerly on top. After this I decided to focus on a regular non lattice top and the dough was the hardest part to "get right". One thing that is true for me is that you’ll get a different pie every time. I was able to get to a place where the dough is good. I’m happy to report that my pies tasted great except for the Strawberry Rhubarb which still needs some work. From my experiences the idea for a book bloomed..."Benji’s Berry Berry Pie" which follows a young boy and his escapades in making his first pie. I want to create worlds that resonate with Black and Brown kids that encourages them to be creative and open to new experiences. I'm excited to share this universe with you and happy to have you along for the ride.
Stay Curious!
Deborah]]>