Literary Nonfiction Award Guidelines

Criteria

The Sigurd F. Olson Nature Writing Award is given to a published book of literary nonfiction nature writing that captures the spirit of the human relationship with the natural world, and promotes the values that preserve or restore the land for future generations. The literary work must hold a 2011 copyright and be written by a single author. Coffee table books, children's books, guidebooks, or general references will not be considered.

Award recipient receives

$1,000 cash prize and an invitation to visit Northland College (all expenses paid) for an award ceremony and public reading.

Submission deadline

December 31, 2011

To enter

Submit eight copies of the nominated book to:
Northland College
Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute
SONWA
Attn: Paula Bonk
Northland College
1411 Ellis Avenue
Ashland, WI 54806

Click here to download the 2012 Submission Form (.pdf).

Children's Writing Award Guidelines

Criteria

The Sigurd F. Olson Nature Writing Award for Children's Literature is given to a published children's book of literary nature writing—nonfiction or fiction—that captures the spirit of the human relationship with nature, and promotes the awareness, preservation, appreciation, or restoration of the natural world for future generations. The literary work must be written for children in grades K-8 and hold a 2010 copyright.

Award recipient receives

$500 cash prize to be split equally between the author and illustrator, and the use of the Sigurd F. Olson Nature Writing Award name for promotional literature. Additional opportunities may be available to visit Northland College and give a book reading to regional youth.

Submission deadline

December 31, 2011

To enter

Click here to download the 2012 SONWA Children's Writing Submission Form (.pdf). 

Submit nine copies of the nominated book to:

Northland College
Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute
SONWA for Children's Literature
Attn: Katherine Jenkins
1411 Ellis Avenue
Ashland, WI 54806