Criteria and SUBMISSion

To enter a published book or galley for review, send the completed REGISTRATION FORM and EIGHT (8) copies to:

Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence
c/o Baton Rouge Area Foundation
451 North St., Suite LL 100
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70801

Non-winning entries will be donated to an area nonprofit. Ineligible entries will not be returned.

The Literary Award, initiated by donors of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation to honor Mr. Gaines, is designed to inspire and recognize rising African-American writers of excellence as they work to achieve the literary heights for which Ernest J. Gaines is known. 

Entries will be accepted through October 31, 2026.

Submission Form
 

Criteria for the 19th Annual Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence:

  • A work of fiction (novel or collection of short stories) that is published between January 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026. Galleys for a 2026 publication are also accepted.

  • The nominee must be a rising author, not yet widely recognized for their work.

  • Author must be an African-American U.S. citizen.

  • Self-published books will not be accepted. Self-published defined as publishing one's work independently and at one's own expense.

  • Emailed entries will not be accepted. 

  • The winning author must be willing to attend the award ceremony in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 2027 and participate in media and educational outreach activities during that week.

TIMELINE:

April 1, 2026 – October 31, 2025  Eligible entries for the 19th Annual Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence will be accepted. See eligibility criteria and submission instructions above. All entries for the book award will receive written notification of receipt.

Spring 2027 – The winner will be selected by a national panel of judges. The judges reserve the right not to issue the award if they feel the selection pool lacks an acceptable candidate. Once the winner is selected, written notification will be sent to all eligible entries.

2027 – The 19th Annual Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence Ceremony will take place in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
 

For additional information, please email gainesaward@braf.org