The Northeastern Minnesota Book Awards celebrated another year of recognizing local writers and their creative work in a lively ceremony held in Duluth. The event, which began in 1988, continues to honor outstanding authors from across the region, showcasing the diversity and talent of Minnesota’s literary community. Since 2021, the awards have been organized by Lake Superior Writers, a volunteer-based group dedicated to supporting and promoting writers throughout the Northland.
This year, 21 authors were nominated across four categories: Nonfiction/Memoir, Poetry, Fiction, and Youth Literature. The ceremony provided a warm and welcoming space for authors to gather, share their work, and celebrate one another’s accomplishments. Many writers said the event was more than just an award show—it was a rare chance to connect with peers who understand the often solitary life of writing.
For many authors, writing can be a deeply personal and sometimes lonely process. Nominated author Rowan Eira described how moments like these help restore motivation and belonging. “It’s challenging to stay focused and feel like you’re an author—you feel a little bit of imposter syndrome,” Eira said. “But then again, that makes the community and these events that much more important.” The ceremony’s atmosphere reflected that sentiment, as writers and readers mingled, shared stories, and found encouragement in one another’s creative journeys.
Along with the award presentations, the event featured book sales and merchandise tables, giving attendees a chance to support local authors directly. Many visitors stopped to chat with writers, purchase signed copies, and learn more about the inspirations behind their stories. It was a meaningful exchange between the creators and their readers, strengthening the connection between Minnesota’s literary voices and their community.
This year’s winners represented a wide range of storytelling styles and themes. In the Nonfiction/Memoir category, Carl Gawboy took home the top honor for Fur Trade Nation: An Ojibwe’s Graphic History, a vivid exploration of Indigenous heritage and history. Cary J. Griffith received an honorable mention for Gunflint Falling: Blowdown in the Boundary, a gripping account of natural disaster and resilience in the Boundary Waters region.
In Poetry, Patrick Stevens won for Natural Wonders, a collection that captures the beauty and spirit of northern landscapes. Bart Sutter received an honorable mention for Cotton Grass: New and Selected Poems of the North, highlighting his continued contributions to the poetry of place.
The Fiction award went to Candace Simar for Sister Lumberjack, a compelling story that blends history and imagination, while Kristina Shuey earned an honorable mention for The Day the World Burned, a moving novel exploring loss and renewal.
In the Youth Literature category, Erin Soderberg Downing’s Just Keep Walking claimed the top spot, praised for its inspiring message and emotional depth. Katharine Johnson’s Belzi’s Blizzard received an honorable mention for its adventurous storytelling and heartfelt characters.
The Northeastern Minnesota Book Awards once again highlighted the strong creative spirit that defines the region. Through the work of local authors, readers are reminded of the power of storytelling to bring people together, celebrate culture, and preserve the unique identity of northern Minnesota.
