A single book submission qualifies an author for a Longlist and Finalist prize as well as the grand prize of being named the winner of the 2025 Luminary Prize in Fiction or Non-Fiction.
$49 per title
*AWARD TIMELINE*
NOMINATION DEADLINE: 10/12/2025
ANNOUNCEMENT OF LONGLIST: 10/19/2025
ANNOUNCEMENT OF FINALISTS: 10/26/2025
ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE 2025 LUMINARY PRIZE WINNER: 11/1/2025 *National Authors Day*
SUBMISSION CHECKLIST
• Submit your entry fee online.
• Email a copy of your completed entry form, along with a PDF copy of your book (including the cover), to "admin@personsoftheyear.com."
• Attach an author bio and any previous press releases or marketing materials for each title (if available).
The Luminary Prize, presented by personsoftheyear.com, is a prestigious literary contest celebrating excellence in storytelling across fiction and nonfiction. Unlike many competitions that categorize entries by genre, the Luminary Prize takes a unique approach by simplifying its awards into just two powerful categories: Best in Fiction and Best in Nonfiction. Each year, this competition seeks to recognize the most illuminating works in literature, regardless of specific genre boundaries.
The selection process is rigorous and thorough, beginning with a longlist of standout works submitted by authors from diverse backgrounds and styles. From this longlist, a panel of esteemed judges narrows the field to a select group of finalists, carefully chosen for their artistry, originality, and depth. Finally, one work from each category is awarded the Luminary Prize in Fiction and the Luminary Prize in Nonfiction—two titles that will stand as hallmarks of literary achievement for the year.
The Luminary Prize honors not only the craft of writing but also the impact that powerful narratives can have on readers and society. It is a celebration of authors who push the boundaries of expression and inspire readers through compelling storytelling.
Winning a Luminary Prize medal offers numerous benefits that extend well beyond mere recognition. This prestigious literary award provides authors with lifelong promotion on their book covers and websites, ensuring that their achievement is prominently displayed and easily accessible to potential readers. The medal itself serves as a powerful visual endorsement of quality, signaling to readers, publishers, and booksellers alike that the winning book represents excellence in storytelling.
Moreover, the Luminary Prize brings honor and recognition on the personsoftheyear.com site, where winners are celebrated and highlighted among a distinguished group of literary standouts. This exposure allows winning authors to connect with a broad audience and elevate their visibility in the literary world. The recognition also serves as a valuable credential that can be parlayed to publishers, literary agents, and even film and television producers who are seeking the next great story.
Additionally, being a Luminary Prize winner can significantly enhance an author’s credibility and career trajectory. The medal’s prestige not only boosts an author’s pride in their work but also opens doors for opportunities such as speaking engagements, interviews, and promotional events. It’s a platform that allows authors to share their creative vision with a larger community and build connections that can lead to new projects, collaborations, and growth in their literary careers.
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