The Best of the Great Outdoors: National Outdoor Book Award Honors Authors Across All Adventure Genres
The National Outdoor Book Award is an annual award that recognizes outstanding literary works on nature, the outdoors, and adventure.
The National Outdoor Book Award is a prestigious recognition given to the best books in outdoor literature. For those who love nature, adventure, and exploration, this award is a must-know event. Each year, the award committee selects outstanding titles from a wide range of categories, including history, memoir, natural history, and guidebooks. The winners not only capture the essence of the outdoors but also inspire readers to explore and appreciate the world around them.
One of the most compelling aspects of the National Outdoor Book Award is the diversity of its winners. From mountaineering epics to sea kayaking adventures, from bird-watching guides to environmental activism, the award covers a broad spectrum of topics that appeal to different interests and perspectives. Whether you are a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a curious armchair traveler, there is always something that will catch your eye and spark your imagination.
Another fascinating aspect of the award is the quality of its authors. Many of the winners are well-known names in their respective fields, such as John Muir, Edward Abbey, David Quammen, and Jon Krakauer. Others are emerging talents who bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the genre. Regardless of their background, all the authors share a passion for the outdoors and a talent for storytelling that makes their books captivating and inspiring.
Perhaps the most valuable aspect of the National Outdoor Book Award is its contribution to the conservation and preservation of natural resources. Many of the winning titles shed light on environmental issues and challenges, and offer insights and solutions to protect and restore the natural world. By raising awareness and promoting stewardship, these books play a vital role in shaping public attitudes and policies towards the environment.
One of the recent winners of the National Outdoor Book Award is The Sun is a Compass by Caroline Van Hemert. This captivating memoir chronicles the author's journey through the Alaskan wilderness, where she and her husband traveled by rowboat, ski, and foot for six months, covering 4,000 miles of rugged terrain. Along the way, Van Hemert reflects on her own life and relationships, as well as the beauty and fragility of the natural world. Her prose is lyrical and poetic, and her observations are insightful and thought-provoking.
Another winner of the award is The Last Wild Men of Borneo by Carl Hoffman. This fascinating book tells the story of two adventurers, Bruno Manser and Michael Palmieri, who ventured into the heart of Borneo in the 1980s and 1990s, living among the indigenous tribes and documenting their culture and traditions. Hoffman weaves together their stories in a gripping narrative that explores the complexities of cultural exchange, environmental conservation, and personal identity.
Whether you are looking for inspiration, information, or entertainment, the National Outdoor Book Award has something for everyone. Its winners represent the best in outdoor literature, and its legacy is a testament to the enduring power of nature and the human spirit.
The National Outdoor Book Award: Celebrating the Best in Outdoor Literature
For over two decades, the National Outdoor Book Award (NOBA) has been recognizing and celebrating the best in outdoor literature. The award was established in 1997 by Ron Watters, a professor of outdoor education and author of several outdoor-related books. Over the years, NOBA has become one of the most prestigious awards in the outdoor literary world, with authors and publishers eagerly submitting their works for consideration.
What is the National Outdoor Book Award?
The National Outdoor Book Award is an annual award that recognizes the best in outdoor literature. The award is open to all types of outdoor-themed books, including guidebooks, memoirs, novels, and children's books. Each year, a panel of judges consisting of outdoor writers, educators, and enthusiasts review the submissions and select winners in several categories.
Categories of the Award
The National Outdoor Book Award has several categories, including outdoor literature, natural history literature, instructional literature, and design and artistry. The outdoor literature category includes books about outdoor adventures, travel, and exploration. The natural history literature category recognizes books that provide insight into the natural world, including wildlife, plants, and geology. The instructional literature category includes books that teach outdoor skills such as camping, hiking, and backpacking. Finally, the design and artistry category honors books that excel in book design, photography, and illustration.
Eligibility and Submissions
To be eligible for the National Outdoor Book Award, books must be written in English and published in the United States during the current calendar year. Submissions can be made by authors, publishers, or agents. The submission process involves filling out a form and mailing in copies of the book for consideration. The submission deadline is typically in June of each year, with winners announced in the fall.
Judging Process
The judging process for the National Outdoor Book Award is rigorous and thorough. Each book is reviewed by at least two judges, who evaluate the book based on several criteria, including writing quality, accuracy, relevance, and presentation. After the initial review, the judges meet to discuss the books and determine the winners in each category. The judges' decisions are final, and no appeals or protests are allowed.
Winners and Recognition
Winners of the National Outdoor Book Award receive a certificate of recognition and are featured on the NOBA website and in various outdoor publications. The award provides valuable recognition for authors and publishers and can lead to increased sales and exposure for the book. In addition, being recognized by NOBA is a significant achievement in the outdoor literary world and can help establish an author's reputation as an expert in their field.
Impact of the National Outdoor Book Award
The National Outdoor Book Award has had a significant impact on the outdoor literary world. The award has helped to raise the profile of outdoor literature and has encouraged more authors to write about their experiences in the outdoors. In addition, the award has helped to promote environmental awareness and conservation efforts by recognizing books that provide insight into the natural world and the importance of protecting it.
Notable Winners
Over the years, the National Outdoor Book Award has recognized many notable books and authors. Some of the most memorable winners include Jon Krakauer's Into Thin Air, Cheryl Strayed's Wild, and David Quammen's The Song of the Dodo. These books have become classics in the outdoor literary world and have inspired countless readers to explore the outdoors and connect with nature.
Conclusion
The National Outdoor Book Award is a valuable recognition for authors and publishers in the outdoor literary world. The award has helped to promote environmental awareness, encourage outdoor adventure, and establish the reputation of many talented authors. Whether you are an aspiring writer or an avid reader, the National Outdoor Book Award is an excellent way to discover new outdoor-themed books and connect with other outdoor enthusiasts.
The National Outdoor Book Award: Celebrating the Best in Outdoor Literature
For lovers of the great outdoors, there is no better way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life than by immersing oneself in a good book that explores the wonders and challenges of nature. From memoirs and travelogues to field guides and scientific studies, outdoor literature comes in many forms and offers something for everyone who shares a passion for the natural world. Every year, the National Outdoor Book Award (NOBA) recognizes and honors the most outstanding works of outdoor writing and publishing, providing a platform for authors, publishers, and readers to celebrate the richness and diversity of this genre.
The History of the National Outdoor Book Award
The National Outdoor Book Award was established in 1997 by Ron Watters, a professor of outdoor education at Idaho State University who saw the need for a prestigious literary award that would recognize excellence in outdoor writing and publishing. As an avid outdoor enthusiast and writer himself, Watters believed that outdoor literature had the power to inspire, educate, and connect people of all ages and backgrounds with the natural world, and he wanted to promote and honor the best works in this field.
Since its inception, the NOBA has grown in popularity and influence, attracting hundreds of submissions each year from publishers, authors, and editors around the world. The award has become a symbol of excellence in outdoor literature and a mark of distinction for writers and publishers who seek to share their passion and knowledge with a wider audience.
How the Award Promotes Outdoor Literature
The National Outdoor Book Award plays a crucial role in promoting and advancing the field of outdoor literature by recognizing the best works in various categories such as history, adventure, nature guidebook, children's literature, and more. This recognition not only helps to boost the sales and visibility of the winning books but also raises awareness about the importance and value of outdoor literature as a means of engaging with and learning from nature.
Furthermore, the NOBA provides a platform for authors, publishers, and readers to connect with each other and share their perspectives on the latest trends and topics in outdoor writing and publishing. The award ceremony, held annually in November, brings together writers, editors, book reviewers, and outdoor enthusiasts from around the country to celebrate the best works in the field and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The Criteria Used to Judge Entries
To ensure that only the most exceptional works of outdoor writing and publishing are selected for the National Outdoor Book Award, the judges use a rigorous set of criteria to evaluate each entry. These criteria include:
- Overall literary merit, including style, voice, tone, and structure
- Accuracy and depth of research, including the use of primary sources, interviews, and scientific data
- Originality and innovation in exploring new ideas or presenting old ones in a fresh way
- Relevance and significance to the field of outdoor literature, including its potential to inspire and educate readers
- Appeal to a broad audience, including both experts and non-experts in the field of outdoor literature
By using these criteria, the judges ensure that the winning books represent the highest standards of excellence in writing and publishing and contribute to the ongoing development and growth of the field.
The Different Categories of the National Outdoor Book Award
The National Outdoor Book Award recognizes outstanding works of outdoor literature in several categories, including:
- Outdoor Literature - General
- History/Biography
- Nature Guidebooks
- Instructional/How-to
- Natural History Literature
- Design and Artistic Merit
- Children's Books
- Classic
- Outdoor Adventure Literature
Each category reflects a different aspect of outdoor writing and publishing, from memoirs and travelogues to field guides and scientific studies. By recognizing works in these categories, the NOBA celebrates the diversity and richness of outdoor literature and encourages writers and publishers to explore new themes and topics.
The Role of the Judges in the Selection Process
The selection of winners for the National Outdoor Book Award is a thorough and deliberative process that involves a team of judges who are experts in the field of outdoor literature. These judges come from various backgrounds and include writers, editors, reviewers, and educators who have a deep understanding and appreciation of the genre.
Each judge reads and evaluates every entry based on the criteria mentioned earlier, and then meets with other judges to discuss the merits of each work. The judges must reach a consensus on the winners in each category, which can be a challenging task given the high quality and diversity of the submissions.
Once the winners are selected, the judges provide feedback and comments on each work, which is then shared with the authors and publishers. This feedback not only helps the winners to improve their craft but also serves as a valuable resource for aspiring writers and publishers who seek to learn from the best in the field.
The Impact of Winning the National Outdoor Book Award
Winning the National Outdoor Book Award is a significant achievement that can have a profound impact on the careers of authors and publishers. The award provides a seal of approval that signals to readers, booksellers, and reviewers that the winning book is of the highest quality and deserves attention and recognition.
The award can also boost the sales and visibility of the book, leading to increased opportunities for the author to speak at events, give interviews, and connect with readers. Additionally, the award can serve as a valuable credential for authors who seek to publish future works or secure funding and support for their writing projects.
Notable Winners and Their Works
Over the years, the National Outdoor Book Award has recognized many outstanding works of outdoor literature, from classic memoirs and field guides to cutting-edge scientific studies and innovative how-to manuals. Some notable winners and their works include:
- John Muir and His Legacy: A Naturalist's Life and Work by Stephen J. Holmes (History/Biography, 1999)
- The Arctic Grail: The Quest for the Northwest Passage and the North Pole, 1818-1909 by Pierre Berton (History/Biography, 2000)
- The Sibley Guide to Birds by David Allen Sibley (Nature Guidebooks, 2001)
- The Complete Walker IV by Colin Fletcher (Instructional/How-to, 2002)
- A Sand County Almanac and Sketches Here and There by Aldo Leopold (Natural History Literature, 2005)
- Birds of North America by Kenn Kaufman (Design and Artistic Merit, 2017)
- The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer (Children's Books, 2010)
- The Emerald Mile: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon by Kevin Fedarko (Outdoor Adventure Literature, 2014)
These works and many others have helped to shape and define the field of outdoor literature and have inspired countless readers to explore and appreciate the natural world.
How the Award Helps to Preserve and Celebrate Nature
One of the key goals of the National Outdoor Book Award is to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of nature and the environment. By recognizing outstanding works of outdoor literature, the award helps to raise awareness about the beauty and complexity of the natural world and the urgent need to protect it for future generations.
Many of the winning books explore themes such as conservation, ecology, climate change, and sustainability, providing readers with insights and perspectives that can inform and inspire their own actions and attitudes towards the environment. Furthermore, the award helps to foster a sense of community and shared purpose among readers, writers, and publishers who are passionate about the outdoors and committed to preserving and celebrating its wonders.
The Importance of Outdoor Literature in Today's World
In an age of rapid technological change and urbanization, outdoor literature plays a crucial role in helping people connect with the natural world and understand its importance and value. Outdoor literature provides a window into the wonders and challenges of nature, from the majesty of mountains and oceans to the intricacies of ecosystems and wildlife.
Moreover, outdoor literature can help to foster a sense of empathy and connection with the environment, encouraging readers to see themselves as part of a larger ecological system and to take responsibility for preserving and protecting it. In this way, outdoor literature can serve as a powerful tool for environmental education and advocacy, inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds to take action and make a difference.
The Future of the National Outdoor Book Award
As the field of outdoor literature continues to evolve and grow, the National Outdoor Book Award will play an increasingly important role in recognizing and honoring excellence in writing and publishing. With the support of its judges, sponsors, and readers, the award will continue to promote and celebrate the best works in outdoor literature and inspire new generations of writers and publishers to explore the wonders and challenges of the natural world.
Whether you are an avid reader, a writer, a publisher, or simply someone who loves the outdoors, the National Outdoor Book Award is a valuable resource and a source of inspiration and celebration. By recognizing and honoring outstanding works of outdoor literature, the award helps to connect people with nature and inspires us all to appreciate and protect the wonders of the natural world.
National Outdoor Book Award: A Point of View
What is the National Outdoor Book Award?
The National Outdoor Book Award (NOBA) is an annual award that recognizes outstanding books about nature, outdoor activities, and the environment. The organization behind NOBA is composed of educators, librarians, book reviewers, and other professionals in the outdoor industry.
Pros of the National Outdoor Book Award
- Recognition for authors and publishers who contribute to the outdoor literary world
- Promotes environmental awareness and encourages people to explore the outdoors
- Helps readers find high-quality books about nature, outdoor activities, and the environment
- Encourages writers to produce better content and inspires them to write more about the outdoors
Cons of the National Outdoor Book Award
- Only considers books that are published in the United States
- May overlook excellent books that are not widely known or marketed
- Some critics argue that the award tends to favor books that are written by established authors or published by major publishing companies
Comparison of National Outdoor Book Award to Other Literary Awards
| National Outdoor Book Award | Pulitzer Prize | Man Booker Prize | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criteria | Books about nature, outdoor activities, and the environment | Journalism, literature, and musical composition | Fiction written in English and published in the UK |
| Eligibility | Books published in the United States | Books written by American authors or published in the United States | Books written in English and published in the UK |
| Judging Panel | Educators, librarians, book reviewers, and outdoor professionals | Awarded by Columbia University | Panel of judges that changes every year |
| Number of Awards | Multiple categories with several winners each | 21 categories with one winner each | One winner and five shortlisted books |
In conclusion, the National Outdoor Book Award is a commendable effort to highlight and promote literature about nature, outdoor activities, and the environment. While it has its limitations, such as its focus on books published in the US and the possibility of bias towards established authors, the award serves an important purpose in recognizing and encouraging writers who contribute to the outdoor literary world.
Closing Message for National Outdoor Book Award Visitors
As we come to the end of this article about the National Outdoor Book Award, we hope that you have gained valuable insights into the world of outdoor literature. We have explored the importance of preserving our natural environment, the wonders of adventure and exploration, and the power of storytelling to inspire and educate readers of all ages.
Throughout this article, we have highlighted some of the most exceptional books that have won the National Outdoor Book Award in various categories. From memoirs and biographies to nature guides and photo collections, these books offer a diverse range of perspectives on the great outdoors.
We hope that our recommendations have inspired you to seek out these books and explore the stories they contain. Whether you are an avid hiker, a passionate environmentalist, or simply someone who loves to read, there is something for everyone in the world of outdoor literature.
One of the key themes that emerged from our exploration of the National Outdoor Book Award is the need to protect our natural environment. Many of the books that have won this prestigious award have focused on the importance of conservation, and the urgent need to take action to preserve our planet for future generations.
We hope that this message resonates with you, and that you will be inspired to take steps to protect our natural world. Whether it is by reducing your carbon footprint, volunteering with environmental organizations, or simply taking the time to appreciate the beauty of nature, every action you take can make a difference.
Another theme that emerged from our exploration of the National Outdoor Book Award is the power of adventure and exploration to transform our lives. Many of the books that have won this award have chronicled incredible journeys and expeditions, and the profound impact they have had on the people who undertook them.
We hope that these stories will inspire you to seek out your own adventures and explore the world around you. Whether it is by hiking a local trail, taking a road trip to a new destination, or embarking on a more ambitious expedition, there are endless opportunities for adventure and exploration in our world.
Finally, we would like to emphasize the importance of storytelling in the world of outdoor literature. The books that have won the National Outdoor Book Award are not just informative and inspiring; they are also beautifully written and engagingly told.
We hope that this article has given you a taste of the rich storytelling tradition that exists in the world of outdoor literature. We encourage you to seek out these books and experience the joy of reading about the great outdoors.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the world of the National Outdoor Book Award. We hope that you have found this article informative, inspiring, and thought-provoking, and that it has enriched your understanding of the power and beauty of the natural world.
Remember, the key to preserving our planet and exploring its wonders is to take action and to keep learning. We encourage you to continue reading, exploring, and advocating for the environment and all the creatures that call it home.
Thank you for your time, and happy reading!
People Also Ask About National Outdoor Book Award
What is the National Outdoor Book Award?
The National Outdoor Book Award is an annual literary award that recognizes the best in outdoor writing and publishing. It was established in 1997 to recognize authors and publishers who produce outstanding books on outdoor topics.
Who is eligible for the National Outdoor Book Award?
Any author or publisher, regardless of nationality or citizenship, may submit a book for consideration. The book must be published in English and focus on outdoor topics, such as hiking, climbing, camping, fishing, hunting, nature, or environmental issues.
How are the winners of the National Outdoor Book Award chosen?
The winners of the National Outdoor Book Award are chosen by a panel of judges who are experts in the field of outdoor writing and publishing. The judges evaluate each book based on its content, writing style, and overall contribution to the outdoor literature genre.
What are the categories for the National Outdoor Book Award?
The National Outdoor Book Award recognizes books in the following categories:
- Nature and Environment
- History/Biography
- Instructional/How-to
- Literature
- Children's
What are the benefits of winning the National Outdoor Book Award?
Winning the National Outdoor Book Award can provide authors and publishers with increased visibility, credibility, and exposure to new audiences. The award also comes with a cash prize and a certificate of recognition.
How can I submit a book for the National Outdoor Book Award?
To submit a book for the National Outdoor Book Award, visit the award's official website and follow the submission guidelines. The deadline for submissions is usually in August of each year.