The purpose of the Georgia Author of the Year Awards (GAYA) is similar to that of Georgia Writers Association, itself; to recognize and acknowledge Georgia's wealth of outstanding writers and to acquaint them with the public and one another, thus continuing our literary heritage.

GAYA is unique in that there is no discrimination between self-published authors and those whose books have been published by traditional publishers. The writing of a book, any book, requires not only a certain degree of talent but also requires commitment and focus. The thinking behind this is that every author's work deserves an opportunity to stand against the works of other authors.

The standards and the evaluation processes adhered to by judges are the same for all books, regardless of publisher:

Georgia Writers Association Rating System for Literary Judging

1 - 40 points - Distinctive voice/creativity/originality/style/content
2 - 30 points - Technical/craft/clarity/focused/enduring value/editing
3 - 30 points - Execution/imaginative/emotionally evocative/satisfactory resolution

It is hoped that this encourages self-published authors to give greater regard to both the art and the skill required to produce works of lasting value and to pay serious attention to the editing process. This is more important than ever in these days of deteriorating language skills and sloppily written materials.

Eligibility is based on the calendar year books were published. Any Georgia-resident author may enter the competition. Nominations officially open on September 1 each year and close December 31. The 2001 awards were presented on March 16, 2002 at Mercer University in Macon.

Anyone may attend the award ceremony but paid reservations are required for the dinner. To see the invitation for the 2001 awards, go to http://www.georgiawriters.org/GAYAinvite.htm.

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