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Education and academic book awards
Recognition for books about teaching and learning, and for scholarly work written for students and researchers. Every book is read in full and measured against our published Standard of Excellence.
What this category recognizes
This category holds two related kinds of book. The first is about education itself: pedagogy, classroom practice, curriculum, educational policy, homeschooling, and learning at any age. The second is scholarly and reference work written for students, educators, and researchers, including textbooks and monographs. Both are assessed against the same ten pillars, read through what each is trying to do. Books that teach children directly belong in Children’s Nonfiction.
What the standard looks like in education and academic
The ten pillars apply to every category. This is how each one is read when the book is an education or academic book.
The Writing
Voice, Tone and Style
Whether the writing is clear at the level of its intended reader, whether that is a first-year student or a fellow researcher.
Craft and Technical Execution
Whether complex material is structured for learning rather than merely presented.
Structure and Organization
Whether the book builds knowledge in a sequence, and whether it can be navigated for reference.
The Substance
Originality and Concept Strength
Whether the book contributes to its field or improves meaningfully on existing treatments.
Depth of Content and Insight
Whether the book engages with debate in its field rather than presenting one position as settled.
The Reader
Audience Impact and Purpose Fulfillment
Whether a reader finishes able to do or understand something they could not before.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Whether the book conveys why the subject is worth the reader’s attention.
Overall Impact and Distinction
Whether the book would be adopted, recommended, or returned to.
The Finished Book
Production Quality and Presentation
Trade-standard production, with accurate citation, and where relevant an index, glossary, and clear figures.
Category Relevance
Whether the book serves education or scholarship rather than a general reader’s interest.
Questions about entering an education and academic book
Are textbooks eligible?
Yes. Textbooks and academic monographs are assessed on the same ten pillars as any other book.
Where do children's educational books go?
Children's Nonfiction. This category is for books about education, and for scholarly work.
Is self-published academic work eligible?
Yes. The work is assessed, not the publisher.
Related categories
Submit your education and academic book
Entry is $79 for your first category. Your complete manuscript is read in full and measured against the ten pillars.