The Chrysalis BREW Project

Books, Reviews, and Everything Written (BREW) for you

BREW Book Awards Judging Criteria

Our awards celebrate the best in books across a variety of genres and age groups, recognizing works that truly make an impact. There are at least three types of criteria that BREW Awards judges use: award type-specific criteria, general core judging criteria, and other criteria providing sources of additional points.

Award Type-Specific Basic Criteria

Books nominated for a BREW award need to meet the basic criteria for the specific award type it is nominated for. Please refer to the respective award pages for more details.

General Core Judging Criteria

Once the nominated books have been determined to have satisfied the basic criteria, they are then slated for screening based on general core judging criteria.

Each award may emphasize different qualities, but the following core criteria provide a foundation for evaluating nominated books. These criteria focus on both the creative and technical aspects that contribute to a book’s overall success, from the storytelling to the presentation.

For All Nominated Books:

  1. Content:
    • Quality and Organization: Is the content engaging, well-structured, and cohesive? Does it deliver on its purpose, whether to entertain, inform, or educate?
    • Relevance: Does the content align with its genre or theme, and meet the expectations of its intended readers?
    • Depth: Is the material explored in a way that feels thorough and satisfying for the audience?
  2. Writing Style or Visual Presentation (or Both, as Applicable):
    • Clarity and Readability: Is the language accessible and clear, fitting the intended audience’s needs? If illustrated, are visuals appealing and well-executed?
    • Voice and Tone: Does the author’s voice feel distinct and well-suited to the book’s genre or theme?
    • Creativity: Is there a unique or memorable quality to the writing or visual elements that enhances the book?
  3. Appeal to Target Audience:
    • Relevance to Audience Interests: Does the book address the interests, needs, or preferences of its intended audience?
    • Engagement: Does the book fascinate and resonate with readers, leaving a positive impression?
  4. Uniqueness:
    • Originality: Does the book bring a fresh perspective or concept within its genre?
    • Distinct Approach: Is there an innovative or distinct approach that sets it apart from other works in a similar category?
  5. Editing:
    • Quality of Language and Structure: Is the book polished, free from errors, and edited to ensure smooth flow and readability?
  6. Other Factors (Including Marketability):
    • Audience Appeal: Does the book have elements that make it attractive and relevant to its market?
    • Production Quality: Is the book professionally presented, with attention to details like cover design and layout?

Samples of Book Qualities Under the “Other Factors (Including Marketability)” Criteria

In addition to core content and presentation, the following factors are considered to capture unique qualities that may enhance a book’s broader appeal, impact, and connection with readers. This list is not exhaustive, as there may be other relevant factors not listed here that contribute to a book’s overall strength.

  • Reader Engagement Beyond the Book: Books that encourage interaction beyond the page—such as including discussion guides, access to online resources, or calls to action—create opportunities for readers to connect on a deeper level or as part of a community.
  • Innovative Storytelling Format: Books using creative structures, multimedia elements, or interactive features like QR codes or augmented reality stand out for their unique approach to storytelling, offering a distinctive experience.
  • Environmental and Ethical Standards: Works produced with eco-friendly practices, ethically sourced materials, or fair trade considerations appeal to environmentally conscious readers, adding to their appeal.
  • Cross-Market Potential: Books that effectively appeal to multiple audience segments or cross genres—such as young adult novels with crossover appeal for adults—demonstrate versatility and wider relevance.
  • Supplementary Educational Value: Books with additional learning tools like glossaries, historical notes, or recommended reading lists provide enhanced educational benefits, making them valuable resources, especially for non-fiction or educational categories.
  • Community Impact or Social Initiatives: Books that are part of broader initiatives or support social causes, charities, or community programs, especially when portions of sales or the author’s platform aim to give back, add a meaningful dimension to their appeal.
  • Collaborative Value: For books created with input from experts, illustrators, or cultural advisors, this criterion values the collaborative contributions that add authenticity, depth, or cultural sensitivity to the book.

The examples provided above illustrate qualities that may enhance a book’s unique marketability, appeal, or broader social impact, highlighting works that resonate with readers in meaningful ways. It’s important to note that there may be additional book qualities not yet mentioned that can also contribute to a book’s overall effectiveness and success.

Additional Considerations for Books Targeted at Younger Audiences:

  1. Positive Role Models:
    • Constructive Examples: Does the book feature characters who demonstrate positive qualities, making them relatable role models?
  2. Moral or Life Values:
    • Valuable Messages: Does the book share lessons or messages that can be beneficial, such as kindness, resilience, or respect?
  3. Age-Appropriate Language and Topics:
    • Suitability for Younger Readers: Are the language, themes, and topics appropriate and accessible for the intended age group?
  4. Visual Appeal and Appropriateness:
    • Supporting Imagery: For books with visuals, do illustrations or design elements add to the story without overwhelming it?
  5. Professional Endorsement:
    • Expert Approval: Has the book been reviewed by a relevant professional, such as an educator or industry expert, to confirm its suitability for the audience?
  6. Accuracy or Informed Perspective:
    • Credible Foundation: For books with factual content, are details based on reliable sources or expert knowledge to ensure accuracy and reliability?
  7. Author’s Relevant Expertise:
    • Insight from Experience: Does the author bring unique insight or expertise that enhances the book’s authenticity and quality?

Our goal with these criteria is to honor books that blend creativity, professionalism, and authentic connections with their readers. Each nominated work is evaluated holistically, with the aim of celebrating the unique strengths that make these books stand out in a crowded literary landscape.

Sources of Additional Points

In addition to the book award type-specific criteria and the above general core criteria for judging, there may also be instances where more judging criteria will be used, especially in case of a tie or determining the final list of the winners.

Minimum Number of Points

A book must receive an average score of 90 points to be considered for an award title.

The BREW Laureate Council

Distinguished members of our BREW Laureate Council serve as judges for the BREW awards. Click here for more details about the Council.

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