It seems like only yesterday, but way back in April, we announced that we were tweaking some of our processes for the 2024 Awards cycle. At the top of the list:
Give judges more time for reading.
Having time to find, read, and discuss all the books is something judges ask for year in and year out. To accommodate their request, we are adjusting our awards cycle by two weeks. Whether you’ve been a judge in the past or this is your first time applying, please to take note of the new timeline.
Aug 1-Sep 7: The Call for Judges. This earlier and extended Application Phase ensures everyone has a chance to apply.
Sep 16-30: Public Nomination Period. Still two weeks, just earlier than year’s past.
Oct 1-15: Publisher/Author Submission Period. Earlier than years’ past and now a full two weeks.
It is our hope that the additional two weeks creates opportunities for jusdges to get in more reading before the busy holiday season begins. Publishers also have a better chance of getting books to judges who cannot access them by any other means.