DEADLINE APPROACHING for the J.M. Abraham Atlantic Poetry Award! $2,000 prize for a book of poetry that was written by a full-time resident of Atlantic Canada. Administered by the Writers’ Federation of Nova Scotia In 2025 Douglas Walbourne-Gough won the J. M. Abraham Atlantic Poetry Award for his book, Island, published by Goose Lane Editions.  Douglas Walbourne-Gough is a poet and mixed/adopted status member of Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation from Elmastukwek (the Bay of Islands), Ktaqmkuk (Newfoundland). His work has appeared in journals throughout Canada.  Of Island, the J. M. Abraham jury said, “Island is a poetry collection that does community work on and off the page, as it addresses the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation and its place, or perceived non-place, within Newfoundland and across Canada. Island is a nod toward Ktaqmkuk being an island, but also the misconception of the self being an island.” Link in Bio for more information and how to apply. In the meantime, grab a copy of Island and get reading! (fb)

DEADLINE APPROACHING for the Ann Connor Brimer Award for Atlantic Canadian Children’s Literature! $5,000 prize for a book of fiction or non-fiction that was written for young readers by a full-time resident of Atlantic Canada. This year we are accepting picture books and middle grade books. Administered by the Writers’ Federation of Nova Scotia In 2025 Valerie Sherrard won the Ann Connor Brimer Award for Atlantic Canadian Children’s Literature for her book, Standing on Neptune, published by DCB Young Readers. The award was presented by Gavin Brimer, son of the late Ann Connor Brimer, who was an educator and Atlantic Officer for the Canadian Children’s Book Centre.  Valerie Sherrard is a celebrated author of children’s and young adults’ literature. She was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Of the book, the Brimer jury said, “Standing on Neptune is a beautifully written, tender story that explores the inner world of Brooke, a teenager who she thinks she might be pregnant. The book is engaging, easy to read, and deals honestly with a situation all-too-familiar to many young women.” Link in Bio for more information and how to apply. In the meantime, grab a copy of Standing on Neptune and get reading! (fb)