Have you noticed that certain books in the book store have stickers on them to signify that the book has won an award? Book stores also prominently display books that have won awards. The purpose of this placement is that book stores know that readers are more likely to purchase a book that has won an award. Many times it doesn’t matter what award the book has won, but that it has won something.

If you are publishing a book then you should consider submitting your book to award competitions. There are plenty of book contests that can give your book the recognition it deserves. Award competitions occur through writing magazines, publishing companies, universities, and trade associations.

How do you find out about these award competitions? You can search the internet for award competitions, but this may take hours. An exceptional resource for this information is www.writersmarket.com. For a minimal fee the website will provide an organized listing of award competitions. The listing will specify whether an award competition is free to enter or if there is a fee. Writersmarket.com is run by Writer’s Digest Books.

If you are in the self publishing industry then definitely submit your book to the Self-Published Competition through Writer’s Digest. Writer’s Digest is a well respected magazine that is read by writers and publishing professionals all over the world. Winning a self-published award can not only bring in prize money, but give you massive exposure. If you win, your author profile, book information, and an excerpt from your book will run in an issue of Writer’s Digest. This exposure can lead to increased book sales and interest.

If you are a publishing a book then your budget may be tight. Therefore, enter free award competitions and limit the number of fee-based award competitions. Also check out the validity of the competition. Make sure that you are entering a competition by a well known magazine, college, or association. Unfortunately there are award scams out there so don’t be a victim.

The Self-Published awards competition is a great place to start. Check out www.writersdigest.com/contests/self_published_winners05.asp today to learn about past winners and how you can enter next year.