6th Annual Royal Dragonfly Book Award Winners Announced

CHANDLER, AZ (November, 2015)—Winners of the 2015 Royal Dragonfly Book Awards have been announced by Five Star Publications, Inc. Slow Dancing with a Stranger by Meryl Comer has earned this year’s $300 Grand Prize as well as First Place designations in the Aging and General Nonfiction categories and Honorable Mention in the First-time Author category. An Emmy-award winning broadcast journalist and leading Alzheimer’s advocate, Comer has written a profoundly personal, unflinching account of her husband’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease that serves as a much-needed wake-up call to better understand and address a progressive and deadly affliction. When Comer’s husband Harvey Gralnick was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease in 1996, she watched as the man who headed hematology and oncology research at the National Institutes of Health started to misplace important documents and forget clinical details that had once been cataloged encyclopedically in his mind. With harrowing honesty, she brings readers face to face with this devastating condition and its effects on its victims and those who care for them. Detailing the daily realities and overwhelming responsibilities of caregiving, Comer sheds intensive light on this national health crisis, using her personal experiences—the mistakes and the breakthroughs—to put a face to a misunderstood disease, while revealing the facts everyone needs to know.

Additional first-place winners include The Tiny Portrait by Heidi Carla, illustrated by Karla Cinquanta, which was also the $100 drawing winner; Bee in the Sea by Adam Reed, illustrated by Izzy Bean; American Mojo Lost and Found: Restoring Our Middle Class Before the World Blows by Peter D. Kiernan;   Ballerina Detective and the Missing Jeweled Tiara by Karen Rita Rautenberg; Numbers!: Take the Dog Out by Lynne Dempsey, illustrated by Mandy Newham-Cobb; Nickerbacher, The Funniest Dragon by Terry John Barto, illustrated by Kim Sponaugle; Posie Pixie and the Pancakes by Sarah Hill, illustrated by Sarah Mauchline; Posie Pixie and the Snowstorm by Sarah Hill, illustrated by Sarah Mauchline; Hi My Name is Hanna and I'm Adopted by Angie Barton; Colors!: Take the Dog Out by Lynne Dempsey, illustrated by Mandy Newham-Cobb; Castle in Danger by Karen Rita Rautenberg; Simmer and Smoke: A Southern Tale of Grit and Spice by Peggy Lampman; Going to the Park by Elizabeth Gorcey, illustrated by Kajiah Jacobs; and Ashes and Asphalt by Trevor Halloway.

“We had a very tight competition this year and our judges definitely had their work cut out for them," says Linda F. Radke, president of Five Star Publications, Inc. “I want to extend my sincerest congratulations to all of our winners.”

For a complete list of winners, visit www.RoyalDragonflyBookAwards.com. The next Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway. The early bird deadline is August 1, 2016. Final deadline for submissions is October 1, 2016.

The early bird deadline for the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which recognizes outstanding children's literature, is March 1, 2016. The final deadline is May 1, 2016. For complete rules and submission forms for these contests, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com and click on the contest of choice.

The Story Monster Approved! program identifies quality children's books that have been kid-tested and judge-certified, making it easier for buyers to choose exceptional fiction and nonfiction books that parents will approve and youths will enthusiastically devour. Authors interested in having their books considered for the Story Monster Approved! designation should visit www.StoryMonsters.com to download an entry form. There is no deadline to enter and books are judged as they are received.

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Purple Dragonfly Book Award Winners Announced

CHANDLER, AZ (June, 2015)—Winners of the 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards have been announced by Five Star Publications, Inc. Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina by Michaela and Elaine DePrince has earned this year’s $300 Grand Prize as well as a First Place designation in the Biography/Autobiography/Memoir category. Michaela DePrince was known as girl Number 27 at the orphanage, where she was abandoned at a young age and tormented as a “devil child” for a skin condition that makes her skin appear spotted. But it was at the orphanage that Michaela would find a picture of a beautiful ballerina en pointe that would help change the course of her life. At the age of four, Michaela was adopted by an American family, who encouraged her love of dancing and enrolled her in classes. In this engaging, moving and unforgettable memoir, Michaela shares her dramatic journey from an orphan in West Africa to becoming one of ballet’s most exciting rising stars.

The winner of this year’s $100 drawing is Barbara Freeman, the author of Sugar: A Princess Pit Bull Finds Her Family and Super Smart Sugar. Freeman earned First Place awards in the Educational/Instructional and Family Matters categories and Honorable Mention in the Animals/Pets category.

Additional first-place winners include My Very Own Bucket Filling from A to Z Coloring Book by Carol McCloud and Caryn Butzke; illustrated by Glenn Zimmer; Nickerbacher, The Funniest Dragon by Terry John Barto, illustrated by Kim Sponaugle; CougaMongaMingaMan Meets Maggie by Nancy Scalabroni, illustrated by Terri Kelleher; When the Sun Goes Down by Nannette Nocon, illustrated by John Kastner; Gollywood Here I Come! by Terry John Barto, illustrated by Mattia Cerato; The Eel Hunt by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Margery Fern; A Colorful Journey Through the Land of Talking Letters by Mary Jo Nyssen, illustrated by Mike Motz; The Lucky Chipmunk by Sirui Li, illustrated by YingMing Zhao; Muddy Madeleine Meets an Arach-A-Doo by Amanda Stone Norton, illustrated by Veronica V. Jones; Wilson & Bella's Christmas Wish! by Susan Castriota; Hey, Baby, Look! by Kate Shannon, illustrated by Morgan Owens; It's This Monkey's Business by Debra Mares, illustrated by Taylor Christensen; Just Because by Chiquita Camille Payne, illustrated by Jerry Craft; That Mama is a Grouch by Sherry Ellis, illustrated by Don Berry; The Rain Forest Dance by Sandra Fernandez-Achenbach; Your Awesome Brain by Edwin Lee, M.D., F.A.C.E and Jim Huth, illustrated by Bryan Burright; Powder Monkey by Donna M. McDine, illustrated by K.C. Snider; A Place to Call Home: Toby's Tale by G.A. Whitmore; The Gift of Sunderland by J.E. Rogers, illustrated by Guy Atherfold; The Gift of Sunderland (ebook) by J.E. Rogers, illustrated by Guy Atherfold; Eden and Her Happy by Tracy Schlepphorst; If I Could Reach the Sky by Abbe Reichman, illustrated by Charles Berton; It's a Piece of Cake by Laurie Lunsford, illustrated by Brittani Gothard; Noisy Bird Sing-Along by John Himmelman; The Adventures of Paka The Lion Cub by Mary N. Keown, illustrated by Yvonne L. Martin; An Amazing Circus of Phonograms: Act 1 by Mary Jo Nyssen, illustrated by Mike Motz; Explorations of Commander Josh Book One: In Space by Donna LeBlanc, illustrated by Anton Servetnik; Queen Vernita Visits Baja Quail by Dawn Menge, illustrated by Pamela Snyder; Sashi: The Scared Little Sheltie by Linda Greiner, illustrated by Morgan Spicer; The Dandelion Seed's Big Dream by Joseph Anthony, illustrated by Chris Arbo; The Great Danbury State Fair by Theresa Buzaid, illustrated by Steve Dasgupta; Angels, Angels, Everywhere by Michelle Beber, illustrated by Susan Shorter; The Lonely Loon by Margaret Ball Ottman; The Visitor's Choice by Alexander Davidson; If Jesus Lived Inside My Heart by Jill Roman Lord, illustrated by Amy Wummer; Pancakes with Papa: Five Ways to Remember by Dena Albergo Jayson, illustrated by Rainer M. Osinger; and A Place to Call Home: Toby's Tale by G.A. Whitmore  

“We had a very tight competition this year and our judges definitely had their work cut out for them," says Linda F. Radke, president of Five Star Publications, Inc. “I want to extend my sincerest congratulations to all of our winners.”

For a complete list of winners, visit www.DragonflyBookAwards.com. The next Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway. The early bird deadline is March 1, 2016. Final deadline for submissions is May 1, 2016.

For complete rules and submission forms for these contests, visit www.DragonflyBookAwards.com and click on the contest of choice.

Story Monster Approved! identifies quality children's books that have been kid-tested and judge-certified, making it easier for buyers to choose exceptional fiction and nonfiction books that parents will approve and youths will enthusiastically devour. Authors interested in having their books considered for the Story Monster Approved! designation should visit www.StoryMonsters.com to download an entry form. There is no deadline to enter and books are judged as they are received.

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5th Annual Royal Dragonfly Book Award Winners Announced

2014 Royal Dragonfly Grand Prize Winner

2014 Royal Dragonfly First Place Drawing Winner

CHANDLER, AZ (November, 2014) – Winners of the 2014 Royal Dragonfly Book Awards have been announced by Five Star Publications, Inc. The Red Sun: Legends of Orkney by Alane Adams has earned this year’s $300 Grand Prize as well as First Place designations in the Children’s Chapter Books, Middle-Grade Fiction and Newbie/First Time Author categories. Drawing on Norse mythology, The Red Sun is the first book in The Legends of Orkney, a spellbinding series of adventure fantasy novels by Adams. Twelve-year-old Sam Baron is no hero. He's prone to losing his temper and believes his dad is the worst lout in the world for taking off and leaving him and his mom to fend for themselves in their home town of Pilot Rock, Oregon. But Sam's world turns upside down when a strange dwarf appears in his garage and Sam discovers his father has been trapped in a stone in some magical realm called Orkney. Worse, his substitute English teacher is a bona fide witch and seems to want him dead. With his friends gone missing and vicious Shun Kara wolves stalking him, Sam must travel through a stonefire to the far away realm of Orkney to save his friends from the dark powers that hold them and find a way to rescue his father. Thrust into this new world, Sam must unravel the secrets of his past while trying to stay alive as witches, wraiths, and other menacing creatures pose serious peril to the unsuspecting Sam.

The other noteworthy winner of the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards is the winner of the $100 drawing, Josh Mathe. Author of In the Footsteps of Greatness, Mathe also earned First Place designations in the Self-Help/Inspirational and Newbie/First Time Author categories and Second Place in the Sports/Exercise category.

Additional first-place winners include Guardian of Dreams: A Bedtime Story by Wendy Torrel; What Lies Within by Libby J. Atwater; Storybranding 2.0: Creating Standout Brands Through the Purpose of Story by Jim Signorelli; The Cockroach Invasion by Dr. Sherry L. Meinberg; Addie B. Strong: I Am So Strong by Alyson Flippo; Deputy Dorkface: How Sugaropolis Got Dessert Back by Kevin D. Janison; The Case of the Missing Byte by Joseph Daluz and Julia Morton; The Red Sheet by Mia Kerick; The Azurite Encounter by Jane Frances Ruby; Marco the Little Chef: Makes Macaroni and Cheese by Joy Papini, Ph.D; Fibromyalgia and Other Chronic Painful Conditions: The Patient's Guide and Survival Manual for Obtaining Proper and Effective Medical Care, Second Edition by Jeffrey B. Loomer, M.D., FACP, FACR; The Old Cape House by Barbara Eppich Struna; 101 Awesome Things To Do for Someone Who's Sick by Elaine Wilkes, Ph.D.; Nature's Secret Messages: Hidden in Plain Sight by Elaine Wilkes, Ph.D.; A World of Words: Collected Poetry of Eath, Volume One by Rafael L. Lopez; Interplay: An Artist's Approach to Spirituality by Makram Abu-Shakra; Sanctuary by Alene Adele Roy; Avarom and the Secret of the White Mist by J.L. Stewart; Avoiding the Dodgeballs at Work: A Young Woman's Guide to Succeeding at a First Job by E. Marie; and Born to Run, Live to Be Free by Daris Howard.

"We had a very tight competition this year and our judges definitely had their work cut out for them," says Linda F. Radke, president of Five Star Publications, Inc. “I want to extend my sincerest congratulations to all of our winners.”

For a complete list of winners, visit www.dragonflybookawards.com and click on "Winners." The next Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway. The early bird deadline is August 1, 2015. Final deadline for submissions is October 1, 2015.

In addition to the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, Five Star Publications, Inc. also has two additional book contests: Purple Dragonfly Book Awards and eBook Dragonfly Book Awards. The early bird deadline for the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which recognizes outstanding children's literature, is March 1, 2014. The final deadline is May 1, 2014. The early bird deadline for the eBook Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which was conceived to honor published authors of all genres of digital literature, is January 1, 2015. The final deadline is March 1, 2015.

For complete rules and submission forms for these contests, visit www.dragonflybookawards.com and click on the contest of choice. Entrants who meet the early bird deadline are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show written by Linda F. Radke.

Story Monster Approved! is Five Star’s newest awards program. It identifies quality children's books that have been kid-tested and judge-certified, making it easier for buyers to choose exceptional fiction and nonfiction books that parents will approve and youths will enthusiastically devour. Authors interested in having their books considered for the Story Monster Approved! designation should visit www.storymonsters.com to download an entry form. There is no deadline to enter and books are judged as they are received.

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4th Annual Royal Dragonfly Book Award Winners Announced

CHANDLER, AZ (November, 2013) - Five Star Publications, Inc. has announced the winners of the 2013 Royal Dragonfly Book Awards. Diamond Fields by Randall Reneau has earned this year's $300 Grand Prize as well as a First Place designation for the Fiction: Novel category. The Knighting of Sir Kaye by Don M. Winn won First Place for Children's Chapter Books and the drawing for $100 in which each first-place winner is entered.

Other first-place winners included: Dear Little One by Christina L. Thomas for the Activity Books category; The Do's and Don'ts by Hayley Rose for the Best Photography/Illustrations category; Crypto-Punk by George Traikovich for the Children's Chapter Books category (tie); End of the Rainbow Fruit Salad by Eluka Moore, Larry Puzniak, and Marianne Welsh for the Children's Picture Books (5 & Younger) category; Bubblegum Princess by Julie Gribble for the Children's Picture Books (6 & Older); Sneezing Seasons: The Inside Story about Allergies and Immunology by Gail Galvan for the Health, Diet, Nutrition category; A Cruel Calm: Paris Between The Wars by Patricia Daly-Lipe for the Historical Fiction category; Danny Celebrates Advent by Dr. Jennifer Grenardo for the Newbie Award (first time author, fiction) category; Through Frankie's Eyes by Barbara Techel for the Pets, Animals category; Stellarella! It's Saturday! by Deborah W. Dykes for the Religion, Spirituality, Philosophy category; Firestar: Krisalys Chronicles of Feyree: Scroll 3 by Claudia Newcorn for the Science Fiction & Fantasy & Paranormal category; Magikal Molly Day by Amy Lloyd for the Self-Help, Inspirational category; Questions: Directions to Who You Are by Tim W. Turner for the Self-Help, Inspirational category; Pond Ghosts by Alene Adele Roy for the Young Adult Fiction category; TeenCoder: Java Programming by Homeschool Programming, Inc. for both the Education and Text Books categories: and TeenCoder: Android Programming by Homeschool Programming, Inc. for both the Science & Technology and How-To categories.

"We had a very tight competition this year and our judges definitely had their work cut out for them," says Linda F. Radke, president of Five Star Publications, Inc., which coordinates the contest. "I want to extend my sincerest congratulations to our winners."

For a complete list of winners that includes second-placers and honorable mentions, visit www.RoyalDragonflyBookAwards.com and click on "Winners." The next Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway. Submissions postmarked August 1, 2014 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show written by Radke. Final deadline for submissions is October 1, 2014.

The Early Bird deadline for the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards Contest, which recognizes outstanding children's literature, is March 1, 2014. The final deadline is May 1, 2014. For complete rules and submission forms for either contest, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com and click on the contest of choice.

Story Monster Approved, Five Star's newest awards program, identifies quality children's books that have been kid-tested and judge-certified, making it easier for buyers to choose exceptional fiction and nonfiction books that parents will approve and youths will enthusiastically devour. Authors interested in having their books considered for the Story Monster Approved designation should visit www.StoryMonsters.com and download an entry form. Story Monster Approved Books are announced quarterly. The deadline to be considered for the next announcement is January 14, 2014. Submissions postmarked by November 14, 2013 receive a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show.

To learn more about Five Star Publications, celebrating 28 years in business in Chandler, Ariz., access www.FiveStarPublications.com, email info@FiveStarPublications.com or call 480-940-8182.
 

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Record High of 17 Perfect Scores Achieved by Dragonfly Book Contest Entries

CHANDLER, AZ (June, 2013) - A children's book contest in which judges seldom give more than a few perfect scores recently concluded with 17 entries receiving 80 out of 80 possible points, awarding them and two others first-place designations in the 2013 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards.

"This year's competition was the stiffest ever, with an unprecedented number of entries from all over the world including England, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, Israel, France, Canada, Dubai, the United States and others," says Linda F. Radke, president of Five Star Publications, Inc., the sponsor of the Dragonfly Book Awards. "We pride ourselves on using a point system, which is the fairest way to judge. If five entries in one category share the same first-place score, for example, we award all five of them first-place certificates rather than draw straws and penalize the other four entries. Plus, a minimum score of 72 out of 80 is required to be considered for a first-place award, 64 out of 80 for a second place and 56 out of 80 for an honorable mention - even if there is only one book entered in a category - which means the scores are truly reflective of the quality of the books that win."

First-place perfect scores were given to: The Gift by Yolande Nicholson Spears in the Family Matters and Biography/Autobiography/Memoir categories, also the $300 grand-prize winner; The Puppy's Soul by Rochelle Monique Brandon, which tied with Who's in That Shell? by Anita Elco and Katherine Stelmach in the Animals/Pets category and won the $100 drawing of first-place winners; Quinn's Search for the Samurai, written by Eugene H. Rotberg and Iris C. Rotberg and illustrated by Bryn Barnard, in the Best Illustrations category; The Adventures of Detective Luke: The Disappearing Dog Bowl by Wilson Hickman for Chapter Books; Peaches! Peaches! by Jackie Ferrell for the eBook: Animals/Pets and eBook: Picture Books-5 & Younger categories; Eat It!: Food Adventures with Marco Polo by Gracie Cavnar for the Food-Related category; Coyote Winds by Helen Sedwick for Historical Fiction; Celia the Great - Tricks for Being a Happy Kid by Abby Jacobs, Mama's Purse by AJ Irving and Who Knows the Seasons? by Geoffrey Haas in a three-way tie for the Picture Books-5 & Younger category for printed books; Granny's Clan by Dr. Sally Hodson, Will You Fill My Bucket? by Carol McCloud and Karen Wells, and Dreamy Space Cadet by Summer Flier in a three-way tie for Picture Books-6 & Older; and Wee Three Kings by Brent L. Anderson for Spiritual/Religious.

The other two books that earned first-place awards but did not receive perfect scores were Island of the Invisible Being by Madelain Westermann for Cultural Diversity and Mama's Purse, which was illustrated by Rick Thomson, for Best Cover Design.

Also part of the Five Star Dragonfly Book Awards family of contests is the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, which honors all genres of books in 52 categories including a new Youth Author category for published writers ages 17 and younger. The deadline to enter is October 1, 2013; however, Royal Dragonfly submissions postmarked Aug. 1, 2013 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show.

The 2014 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway with a March 1, 2014 early bird deadline and May 1, 2014 final deadline. There is no publication date restriction as long as the titles entered are still in print.

For a complete list of winners including second placers and honorable mentions, rules and entry forms for either contest, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com. For more details on Five Star Publications, celebrating 27 years of publishing and marketing excellence, email info@FiveStarPublications.com or call 480-940-8182.

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Winter 2012 Royal Dragonfly Book Award Winners Announced

CHANDLER, AZ (November, 2012) - An unprecedented seven out of 15 first-place winners in the Winter 2012 Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest received perfect scores with 80 points out of a possible 80: Buried in the Sky by Peter Zuckerman and Amanda Padoan for the Cultural Diversity and Historical Nonfiction categories, Confessions of a Movie Addict by Betty Jo Tucker for Biography/Memoir, The Right Guard by Alexandra Hamlet for Fiction Novel, Nature's Notes by Judy Burris and Wayne Richards for Photography/Illustrations, Your Magnetic Mind by Aan D. Frazier for Self-Help/Inspirational, and The Soul's Mark: Found by Ashley Stoyanoff for Young Adult Fiction.

Buried in the Sky also earned the $300 Grand Prize, while Confessions of a Movie Addict won the drawing for $100 in which each first-place winner is entered.

Other first-place winners who did not receive perfect scores, but had to earn no less than 72 out of 80 points to be eligible for first place included: Marie's Nine Lives by Shana Gammon for the Animals/Pets category; The Adventures of the Little Prince and The Little Princesses Magical Party by Rosemary R. Evans tied for Children's Picture Book 5 and Younger; Teeny Tiny Tina and Her Teeny Tiny Pet and Teeny Tiny Tina and the Teeny Tiny Tooth Fairy, also by Rosemary R. Evans, tied for Children's Picture Book 6 and Older; Romancing the Stove by Amy Reiley, author, and Deborah Daly, designer, for Cover Design; Buried in the Sky by Peter Zuckerman and Amanda Padoan for Nonfiction and The Soul's Mark: Found by Ashley Stoyanoff for eBook Newbie Fiction.

"In analyzing the contest data, it was really exciting to see the Dragonfly Book Awards giving new wings to some of the older, but very worthy publications that might not have gotten due recognition when first released," says Linda F. Radke, president of Five Star Publications, Inc., which coordinates the contest. "For example, out of our first-place winners, Rosemary Evans' books were published between 2008 and 2010, Confessions of a Movie Addict came out in 2001, and Maria's Nine Lives had a 2011 release date."

For a complete list of winners that includes second-placers and honorable mentions, visit www.RoyalDragonflyBookAwards.com and click on "Winners." The next Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway. Submissions postmarked August 1, 2013 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show written by Radke. Final deadline for submissions is October 1, 2013.

The Early Bird deadline for the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards Contest, which recognizes outstanding children's literature, is March 1, 2013. The final deadline is May 1, 2013. For complete rules and submission forms for either contest, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com and click on the contest of choice. To learn more about Five Star Publications, celebrating 27 years in business in Chandler, Ariz., access www.FiveStarPublications.com, email info@FiveStarPublications.com or call 480-940-8182.

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Seven Books Receive Perfect Scores in Purple Dragonfly Contest

CHANDLER, AZ (June, 2012) - In a contest where judges rarely give even one book a perfect score, it is astounding to note that seven entries in the third annual Purple Dragonfly Book Awards competition earned a perfect 80 out of 80 possible points.

Perfect scores were given to these first-place winners: Nate Rocks the World by Karen Pokras Toz for the Chapter Book category, also the $300 Grand Prize winner; Wilson Learns Manners! by Susan Castriota for Charity/Making a Difference; Our Salt Water Aquarium by Tom and Gretchen Stuckey for Picture Book Ages 6 and Older; and a four-way tie in the Picture Book Ages 5 & Younger category between Chippy Chipmunk: Babies in the Garden by Kathy M. Miller, Over in the Forest: Come Take a Peek by Marianne Berkes, Jo MacDonald Saw a Pond by Mary Quattlebaum, also the $100 drawing winner, and Jo MacDonald Had a Garden, also by Quattlebaum.

"Our judges really had their work cut out for them this year," says Linda F. Radke, president of Five Star Publications, Inc., the sponsor of the Dragonfly Book Awards. "We had an unprecedented number of high quality, deserving entries."

The other first-place winners are: I Am Stumped by Lisa Rivard in the School Issues Category, Chippy Chipmunk: Babies in the Garden for the Animals/Pets category, Moon Over Bioko: Sea Turtles of Bioko Island by author Heidi Rader and illustrator Holly Smith for Best Illustrations, Twisted: Tales to Rot Your Brain Vol. 1 by Nora Thompson for Fiction Collection of Short Stories, Would You Still Love Me IF... by Danielle Leibovici for the General category, Queen Vernita Visits the Islands of Enchantment by Dawn Menge for Outdoor Recreation, Chippy Chipmunk: Babies in the Garden for Photography.

"Judging a book contest by the point rating system is the fairest way to run things because if five entries in one category share the same first-place score, we award all five of them first-place certificates rather than drawing straws and penalizing the other four entries," explains Radke. �Plus, a minimum score of 72 out of 80 is required for a first-place award, 64 out of 80 for a second place and 56 out of 80 for an honorable mention - even if there is only one book entered in a category � which means the scores are truly reflective of the quality of the books that win."

The Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, which honors all genres of books in 50 categories, is currently in progress with an October 1, 2012 deadline. However, Royal Dragonfly submissions postmarked August 1, 2012 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show. The fourth annual Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway with a March 1, 2013 early bird deadline and May 1, 2013 final deadline. There is no publication date restriction as long as the titles entered are still in print. For complete winners' lists including second placers and honorable mention, rules and entry forms for the contests, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com. For more details on Five Star Publications, email info@FiveStarPublications.com or call 480-940-8182.

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“Familiar Origins” Wins Two Coveted Royal Dragonfly Book Awards

CHANDLER, AZ (March, 2012) - The judges of the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which recognizes excellence in literature, have spoken, and Familiar Origins by B. Pine, won 1st place in the Science Fiction & Fantasy and Newbie Fiction categories.

"Winning any place in the Royal Dragonfly Contest is a huge honor because in order to maintain the integrity of the Dragonfly Book Awards, a minimum score is required before a 1st or 2nd place or Honorable Mention will be awarded to the entrant - even if it is the sole entry in a category," explains Linda Radke, president of Five Star Publications, the sponsor of the Dragonfly Book Awards. "Competition is steep, too, because there is no publication date limit as long as the book is still in print."

Familiar Origins is a refreshing fantasy tale of five children growing up under the ominous scrutiny of a group of mystical dragons. Despite its genre, the story is a coming-of-age tale, where the main characters begin the story as young children and grow up as best they can under the extraordinary circumstances they are in. It retails for $19.95 ($9.99 in e-book format), and can be purchased at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, or ordered through local bookstores.

For a complete list of winners including all first and second place and honorable mention recipients, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com and click on "Winners."

The Fall 2012 annual Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway. Submissions postmarked August 1, 2012 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show, written by Radke. Final deadline for submissions is October 1, 2012. The Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which offers 30 categories in children's literature, has also launched. The deadline for the Purple Dragonfly contest is June 15, 2012. For complete rules and submission forms, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com and click on contest of choice.

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Coveted Dragonfly eBook Award Winners Announced

CHANDLER, AZ (December 7, 2011) - Judges of the 2011 Dragonfly eBook Awards, a division of the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest that recognizes excellence in literature published in eBook format, have spoken, and Farsighted by Emlyn Chand took first place for both the Young Adult Fiction and Newbie Fiction categories, as well as earning $300 and the Grand Prize designation. Of Farsighted, judges said, "It conjures up a world that entices the reader along for the ride" and "A powerful statement about love and forgiveness from the perspective of a typical teenager, who is anything but purely typical. The book has elements of magic and mystery which serve to broaden the vision of this visually impaired boy while bringing the reader to a place of new awakening."

Other winners include: Singing Her Alive by Diana K. Perkins, who took first place for Cultural Diversity and Fiction Novel categories, as well as winning the $100 drawing in which all first-placers are entered, and Last Stop Freedom by Ann Nolder Heinz with a first-place win for Historical Fiction. For a complete list of winners, visit www.DragonflyBookAwards.com and click on "Winners."

The Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest for traditionally printed books is already underway, with a February 1, 2012 deadline. There are 50 categories in which to enter. Additionally, the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards, which gives recognition to exceptionally published children's books, is in progress. Submissions postmarked March 1, 2012 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Linda F. Radke's Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show. Final deadline for submissions for Purple Dragonfly Awards is May 1, 2012.

The Royal and Purple Dragonfly Book Awards are part of the family of Dragonfly Book contests. For complete rules and submission forms for either, visit www.DragonflyBookAwards.com.

Outstanding Children's Books Awarded Purple Dragonfly Awards in 2nd Annual Contest

CHANDLER, AZ (June, 2011)—Growing Up With a Bucket Full of Happiness by Carol McCloud is the Grand Prize winner of the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which recognizes excellence in children's literature. McCloud's book earned a 1st Place win in the Charity/Making a Difference category with a perfect score and 1st Place in School Issues with a near perfect score, awarding her $300 and the Grand Prize designation. Judges' comments were: "Excellent message! Incredible analogies. Adults should read this book, too!" and "This book is a great addition to the series, expounding on the principles introduced in the author's previous works. Very nice!"

Other 1st Place winners include: Danny the Dragonfly Meets Jimmy by Tina Turbin with illustrations by Aija Jasuna for Best Illustrations; The Blacksmith's Tale or Once Upon a Flower by Dana Phillips, Best Interior Design; Rockin' Babies by Jenn Berman and Cynthia Weil, Board Book; Doodles Alphabet Coloring Fun by Setria James, Children's Activity Book; Stealing the Wild by Beth Hodder for Children's Chapter Book, Nico and Lola: Kindness Shared Between a Boy and a Dog by Meggan Hill and Over in Australia: Amazing Animals Down Under by Marianne Berkes, who tied for 1st Place in Children's Picture Book 5 & Younger; Fifo "50 States" by Hayley Rose, Children's Picture Book 6 & Older; My Nana's Remedies/Los Remedios de mi Nana by Roni C. Ashford, Cultural Diversity and again for Family Matters; Heaven Sent by Nicole Christine Kosch for Religion, Spirituality, Philosophy; Lodestone Book One & Two by Mark Whiteway, Science Fiction/Fantasy and again for Young Adult Fiction. Ashford also won the $100 prize drawing in which all 1st Place winners were entered.

"Winning any place in the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards is a huge honor because in order to maintain the integrity of the contest, a minimum score is required before a 1st or 2nd Place or Honorable Mention will be awarded, even if it is the only entry in a category," explains Linda Radke, president of Five Star Publications, the sponsor of the Dragonfly Book Awards. "Competition is steep, too, because there is no publication date limit as long as the book is still in print."

The Chocolate Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which is open to any and all books about or relating in some way to food, is already underway with an August 1 deadline for entries; as is the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, which honors all genres of books in 50 categories, with a February 1, 2012 deadline. However, Royal Dragonfly submissions postmarked December 1, 2011 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Linda F. Radke's Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show. The 3rd Annual Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest will launch following notification of the Chocolate Dragonfly winners.

For complete winners' lists including 2nd Place and Honorable Mention wins, rules and entry forms for any of the Dragonfly Book Awards contests, visit www.dragonflybookawards.com.

Royal Dragonfly Awards Launched to Give Wings to Extraordinary Books

CHANDLER, AZ – While a book contest is nothing new, it is extremely rare to come across one like the recently launched Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, which does not restrict the publication date of entries as long they are still in print. Sponsored by Five Star Publications, a multi award-winning company with close to 25 years of publishing expertise, the Royal Dragonfly Awards were created to honor published authors of all types of literature – fiction and nonfiction – in 50 categories, appealing to a wide range of ages and comprehensive list of genres.

"Five Star realizes the avalanche of books released each year causes many wonderful reads to get overlooked," says Linda Radke, Five Star Publications' president. "Therefore, we do not impose a limit on the year of publication for entries, which means winning a Royal Dragonfly Book Award can breathe new life into an author's book marketing strategies and give the publication renewed attention and appreciation by the book industry and readers alike. There are some very deserving books out there that haven't won awards only because they were published before the deadline, and we wanted to remedy that with our contest."

One grand-prize winner is selected from all first-place winners to receive $300, and all first-place winners of each category go into a drawing for a $100 prize. In addition, each first-place winner in each category receives a certificate commemorating their accomplishment, foil award seals to place on book covers and mention on Five Star Publications' websites. A publicity campaign announces all winners and first-place recipients are placed in the Five Star Dragonfly Book Awards virtual bookstore. In addition to the aforementioned, the grand prize winner receives one hour of marketing consultation from Five Star Publications and $100 worth of Five Star Publications' titles. Second-place titles are recognized. Although the deadline to enter is February 1, 2012, entries postmarked December 1, 2011 or earlier qualify for the Early Bird Special and receive their choice of award-winning e-book: "The Economical to Guide to Self-Publishing" or "Promote like a Pro."

The Royal Dragonfly Book Awards are part of the family of Five Star Dragonfly Book contests, which includes the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards, a competition currently being judged that recognizes excellence in children's literature; the Chocolate Dragonfly Book Awards, which honors food-related publications; and the Green Dragonfly Book Awards, which salutes books that create awareness of the environment and eco-friendly living. To learn more about the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, visit www.royaldragonflybookawards.com.

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Winners of Purple Dragonfly Book Awards Announced

CHANDLER, AZ (November 6, 2010) – The judges of the first annual Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which recognizes excellence in children's literature, have spoken, and the surprising results are in. Though God’s Promise by Maureen Moss, a beautifully illustrated children’s book that, according to judges, instills spiritual faith, security and love in the hearts of young and old readers alike, ran away with the $300 Grand Prize with a perfect score, Travel with Gannon & Wyatt: Botswana by Patti Wheeler and Keith Hemstreet swept four first-place “Best” categories: Charity, Outdoor Recreation, Cover Design, and Educational/Instructional; and a second-place award for the General category.

“One judge commented that the book was so well-written and exciting for young readers that its lessons ‘go down like smooth, melting chocolate,’” says Linda Radke, president of Five Star Publications, the sponsor of the Dragonfly Book Awards.

Additional first-place winners, who all received $75, are: Chippy Chipmunk Parties in the Garden by Kathy M. Miller for Best Animal/Pet book, Little Rockin’ Roger and the Magic Glass Guitar by Benjamin Moores for Best Arts/Music, Hey Dad! Let’s Have a Catch by Harold Theurer, Jr. for Family Matters, Roonie B. Mooney: Lost and Alone by Janan Cain for Family Matters, Living on Sisu: The 1913 Union Copper Strike Tragedy by Deborah K. Frontiera for Historical Fiction, Morning Rain by Sheila Cayolle for Interior Design. A complete list of winners including all second-place and honorable mention recipients can be found at www.FiveStarBookAwards.com.

The second annual Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway. Submissions postmarked March 1, 2011 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show. Final deadline for submissions is May 1, 2011. The Royal Dragonfly Book Awards Contest has also launched with Submissions postmarked December 1, 2010 or earlier eligible for the Early Bird reward and the final deadline for submissions on February 1, 2011. In order to maintain the integrity of the Dragonfly Book Awards, a minimum score of 55 out of 80 must be earned for a place to be awarded to the entrant – even if it is the sole entry in a category. For complete rules and submission forms, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com.

The Purple and Royal Dragonfly Book Awards are part of the family of Five Star Dragonfly Book contests, which include the Chocolate Dragonfly Book Awards, honoring food-related publications; the Green Dragonfly Book Awards, saluting books that create awareness of the environment and eco-friendly living; and Dragonfly eBook Awards, which celebrate eBooks. For more on Five Star Dragonfly contests, access www.FiveStarBookAwards.com. Five Star Publications can be reached at info@FiveStarPublications.com or by calling 480-940-8182.

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Finalists of Purple Dragonfly Book Awards Announced

CHANDLER, AZ (September 21, 2010) – Judging for the first annual Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which recognizes excellence in children's literature, has concluded, and a list of finalists revealed. The finalists will learn the details of which category they placed in and whether they will receive first, second or third place, or an honorable mention at or after the Arizona Authors Association Awards Banquet, which begins at 5 p.m. on Sat. Nov. 6, 2010. The event is held at the Glendale Civic Center at 5750 W. Glenn Drive in Glendale, Ariz.

One exceptional entry will win the $300 Grand Prize, while all first place entries receive $75 each.

“Winning any place in the Purple Dragonfly Contest is a huge honor because in order to maintain the integrity of the Dragonfly Book Awards, a minimum score of 55 out of 80 must be earned for a place to be awarded to the entrant – even if it is the sole entry in a category,” explains Linda Radke, president of Five Star Publications, the sponsor of the Dragonfly Book Awards. “Competition is steep, too, because there is no publication date limit as long as the book is still in print.”

The list of finalists include: God’s Promise by Maureen Moss of Ashland, OR; Chippy Chipmunk Parties in the Garden by Kathy M. Miller of New Ringgold, PA; Ramdas: The One-Eyed Turtle by Robert Goerman & Dinesh Patel of New Kensington, PA; Little Rockin’ Roger and the Magic Glass Guitar by Benjamin Moores of Manchester, England; Travels with Gannon and Wyatt: Botswana by Patti Wheeler & Keith Hemstreet of Rochester Hills, MI; Danny the Dragon by Tina Turbin of Dunedin, FL; Hey Dad! Let’s Have a Catch by Harold Theurer, Jr., Brooklyn, NY; Where Do We Go? By James F. Weinsier of Fernandina Beach, FL; Princess Sally and Prince Tommy in the Kingdom Always by Jennifer L. Gray, Ph.D. of Federal Way, WA; Roonie B. Mooney: Lost and Alone by Janan Cain of Riverside, IL; Hip Hip Hooray, It’s Monsoon Day! By Roni Capin Rivera-Ashford of Tucson, AZ; Living on Sisu: The 1913 Union Copper Strike Tragedy by Deborah K. Frontiera of Houston, TX; Morning Rain by Sheila Cayolle of Slpharetta, GA; Your Preteen Apostolate by Nicholas J. Bottesi and Michele E. Bondi of Rochester Hills, MI. Several of the finalists placed in multiple categories.

The second annual Purple Dragonfly Book Awards contest is already underway. Submissions postmarked March 1, 2011 or earlier are eligible for the Early Bird reward: a free e-copy of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing or Promote Like a Pro: Small Budget, Big Show. Final deadline for submissions is May 1, 2011. The Royal Dragonfly Book Awards Contest has also launched with Submissions postmarked December 1, 2010 or earlier eligible for the Early Bird reward and the final deadline for submissions on February 1, 2011. For complete rules and submission forms, visit www.FiveStarBookAwards.com.

The Purple and Royal Dragonfly Book Awards are part of the family of Five Star Dragonfly Book contests, which include the Chocolate Dragonfly Book Awards, honoring food-related publications; the Green Dragonfly Book Awards, saluting books that create awareness of the environment and eco-friendly living; and Dragonfly eBook Awards, which celebrate eBooks. For more on Five Star Dragonfly contests, access www.FiveStarBookAwards.com. Five Star Publications can be reached at info@FiveStarPublications.com or by calling 480-940-8182.

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Five Star Publications Unveils New Literary Contest: Purple Dragonfly Book Awards Take Flight

CHANDLER, AZ (December, 2009)—With nearly 25 years of experience under its belt, Five Star Publications knows award-winning books. Its own titles recognized in numerous national writing contests, the Arizona-based publisher is taking its industry expertise to new heights by honoring the work of others. Preparing for its first annual Purple Dragonfly Book Awards competition, Five Star Publications is raising the bar for children's books in 19 categories-from stories about families, hobbies and pets to tales about the environment, religion and health. Five Star will begin receiving submissions for its 2010 contest this month, with all submissions due by June 14, 2010. Winners will be announced at the Arizona Literary Awards Banquet on November 6, 2010 in conjunction with Arizona Authors Association Literary Contest and Book Awards.

"Five Star Publications is proud to announce the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards," said Linda F. Radke, Five Star founder and president, "because we want to help parents give their children only the best in reading excellence. Geared toward stories for children between the ages of four and 10, the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards are designed to bring families together with great children's literature, and a Purple Dragonfly seal on a book's cover lets parents choose new titles for their bookshelves with confidence."

The Purple Dragonfly Book Awards are currently open to children's books published between the 2006-2010 calendar years. Exceptions include titles by Five Star's employees and their immediate family members; contributing editors and writers; affiliated authors; and close acquaintances and relatives of contest judges. Participation is open to authors of both traditionally published and self-published books from any press except Five Star Publications. A Grand Prize winner and First and Second Place Winners in each category will be selected based on content, originality and overall readability, with emphasis on innovation and creativity. The Five Star judging panel will include experts from the fields of editing, reviewing, bookselling and publishing. "Being honored with a Purple Dragonfly Award will confer credibility upon each winner, as well as provide extra positive publicity to further their success," said Radke.

For more information, visit www.PurpleDragonflyBookAwards.com.