Category information
The Rubery Book Award celebrates excellence in independent publishing across a wide range of genres and styles.
The Rubery Book Award celebrates excellence in independent publishing across a wide range of genres and styles. Open to self-published authors and independent presses worldwide, the award welcomes literary and genre fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children’s and illustrated books. Each entry is judged on its execution, originality and overall impact.
Fiction &
Short Fiction
We welcome literary fiction alongside compelling genre fiction, including thrillers, crime, fantasy, science fiction, romance, historical fiction and contemporary fiction.
Non Fiction
We welcome literary fiction alongside compelling genre fiction, including thrillers, crime, fantasy, science fiction, romance, historical fiction and contemporary fiction.
Poetry
Poetry collections and works exploring language, voice and form are welcomed from both emerging and established independent authors.
Children’s & Young Adult Books
The Rubery Book Award welcomes children’s books and YA fiction ranging from picture books and middle grade fiction to young adult novels.
Illustrated & Visual Books
Illustrated books, graphic works, art-led publications and visually driven storytelling are welcomed where originality, presentation and overall impact form part of the reading experience.
The headings above represent the broad genres and types of books welcomed by the award. Final category groupings may vary from year to year depending on entries received and judging considerations.
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All eligible entries are considered within their appropriate category.