Understanding Rubery Award Judging Criteria

If you’ve ever wondered how the Rubery Book Award picks its winners, you’re in the right place. Judging a book competition might seem straightforward at first glance - you read a book, decide if it’s good, and move on. But the reality? It’s a bit more nuanced, a bit more thoughtful, and yes, a bit more fun than you might expect. Let’s dive into the world of Rubery Award judging criteria and uncover what really goes on behind the scenes.

What Makes the Rubery Award Judging Criteria Unique?

The Rubery Book Award is not your average literary prize. It’s designed specifically to champion independent and self-published authors, as well as small presses. This means the judging criteria have to be fair, inclusive, and tailored to recognise talent that might otherwise be overlooked.

At its core, the Rubery Award judging criteria focus on quality, originality, and the ability to engage readers. But it’s not just about slick writing or a catchy plot. The judges look for books that bring something fresh to the table, that show passion and craft, and that resonate on a deeper level.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key elements judges consider, depending on the category entered:

• Writing quality: Is the prose clear, engaging, and well-crafted? Are grammar and punctuation on point?

• Originality: Does the book offer a unique perspective or story? Does it avoid clichés?

• Structure and pacing: Does the narrative flow smoothly? Are chapters well-organised?

• Character development: Are the characters believable and well-rounded?

• Emotional impact: Does the book evoke feelings or provoke thought?

• Presentation: Is the book professionally presented, including cover design and formatting?

  
  

These criteria ensure that every book is judged fairly, regardless of the author’s background or publishing route. However, they serve only as general guidelines, since they may not all be suitable for assessing certain categories, such as poetry.

How Rubery Award Judges Approach Their Task

You might be curious about who these judges are and how they manage to stay objective. The rubery book award judges come from diverse backgrounds - authors, editors, literary agents, and publishing professionals. This mix brings a wealth of experience and perspectives to the table.

Judging is a multi-stage process. Initially, submissions are read by readers and then by the judges. When a book gets to the judges it is read independently. They make notes, then they come together to discuss their thoughts, debate merits, and sometimes defend their opinions. It’s a bit like a book club with a mission.

One interesting aspect is how judges balance personal taste with the award’s standards. After all, not every judge will love every book, but they must assess it fairly. This is where the structured criteria help keep things on track.

If you’re an author, understanding this process can help you tailor your submission. For example, paying attention to presentation and proofreading can make a big difference, as judges notice these details.

Tips to Align Your Book with Rubery Award Judging Criteria

So, how can you make your book stand out in the Rubery Book Award? Here are some practical tips based on the judging criteria:

1. Invest in professional editing

   Typos and awkward phrasing can distract readers and judges. A polished manuscript shows respect for your readers and the judges’ time.

   
   

2. Structure your book thoughtfully

   Ensure chapters flow logically and keep the reader engaged. Avoid unnecessary tangents.

   
   

3. Develop your characters fully

   Even in non-fiction, your ‘characters’ or subjects should feel real and relatable.

   
   

4. Create a professional cover and layout

   First impressions count. A well-designed cover and clean formatting can tip the scales in your favour.

   
   

Remember, the Rubery Award aims to celebrate indie authors and small presses, so don’t be discouraged if you’re new to publishing. The judges appreciate passion and effort as much as polish.

Why Judging Independent Books Requires a Special Touch

Independent and self-published books come with their own set of challenges and opportunities. Unlike traditional publishing, where there’s a team of professionals polishing the final product, indie authors often wear many hats. This means the Rubery Award judges have to be especially attentive and empathetic.

They look beyond minor flaws to find the heart of the book. They understand that a self-published author might not have a big marketing budget or a famous name, but that doesn’t mean the book lacks merit.

This approach makes the Rubery Award a beacon for indie authors who want their work to be taken seriously. It’s a reminder that quality and creativity can shine through, no matter the publishing path.

What Happens After Judging? The Impact of the Rubery Award

Winning or even being shortlisted for the Rubery Book Award can be a game-changer. It’s not just about the trophy or the certificate. It’s about visibility, credibility, and validation.

The award helps indie authors and small presses stand out in a crowded market. It opens doors to new readers, media coverage, and sometimes even traditional publishing opportunities.

For judges, the process is rewarding too. They get to discover fresh voices and support the indie community. It’s a win-win situation.

If you’re considering entering the Rubery Book Award, keep in mind that the judging process is designed to be thorough, fair, and encouraging. Your book will be read by people who genuinely care about independent publishing.

Entering a book award can feel daunting, but remember - every great author started somewhere. The Rubery Book Award is here to help you shine.

Understanding the Rubery Award judging criteria is your first step towards making your book stand out. With a bit of preparation and a lot of passion, you can join the ranks of talented indie authors who have been recognised for their hard work and creativity. So, why not take the plunge? Your book

deserves to be heard.