About Us

Celebrating Exceptional Digital Creation in the Book World
Since 2009

Launched in 2009, the eLit Awards have adapted to a rapidly changing landscape in how books are consumed and discussed worldwide. Today, ebooks are created and appreciated alongside printed books, with even our sister program, the Independent Publisher Book Awards, including ebooks in all categories and adding special ones just for digital formats. Reflecting this shift, the eLits have grown to celebrate the full spectrum of digital storytelling.

 

Beyond ebooks, readers now experience books through social media, websites, podcasts, and audiobooks, transforming how stories are shared and enjoyed. The eLit Awards embrace this evolution in digital readership, bringing decades of book awards expertise and a team of judges who follow everything from #BookTok to literary podcasts. Join us as we celebrate this new era in the world of books.

Our Mission

The eLit Book Awards spotlight excellence in digital publishing, honoring the creators who shape the evolving world of electronic reading. Our mission is to celebrate works that push the boundaries of storytelling, engage diverse audiences, and redefine the e-reading experience. By recognizing the achievements of authors, designers, and publishers, we acknowledge their commitment to enriching digital literature and expanding its reach. Each award underscores the transformative impact of digital media and the essential role these innovators play in the future of publishing.

Sarah Townsend

Our Entrants

Each year, the eLit Book Awards recognize outstanding achievements in electronic publishing, with submissions spanning a variety of digital categories. Judging is based on content, originality, and production quality, honoring publishers, authors, and creators who set new standards in digital storytelling. Entries come from both independent presses and major publishers, showcasing a wide range of creative and technical talent.

Awards are presented in gold, silver, and bronze, celebrating excellence in storytelling, design, and the impact of each work on digital readers. Past recipients have included Rich Shapero, Rick Porrello, and Ray Kurzweil whose works enhance and redefine the digital reading experience. The eLit Awards proudly continue to spotlight and celebrate the remarkable contributions shaping the future of electronic publishing.

Our Staff

Amy Shamroe

Amy Shamroe

Book Awards Director
231.933.2934

Amy has been with Jenkins Group for more than 15 years now. Books have always been a huge part of her life, and her favorite thing about her job is connecting with authors and hearing their stories! Contact her for questions about book award categories, deadlines, the process, or other awards opportunities.

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Emily Slater

Emily Slater

Book Awards Director
231.360.2954

Emily has been with Jenkins Group since 2021, working in both Book Awards and Book Distribution. Her degree in communications, coupled with a lifelong love of books, drives her passion for connecting people and their stories to a broader audience.

She enjoys spending time with family and friends and connecting with her local community through volunteer work. She and her husband are co-circus wranglers of four kids and three pony-sized dogs.

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Jerry Jenkins

Jerrold Jenkins

Founder & CEO
231.883.5365 

In 1988, Jerrold founded Jenkins Group, a leading publishing services firm that assists individuals and corporations with custom solutions tailored to fit a variety of budgets and timelines.

Driven by a passion for honoring the year’s best books, Jerrold launched a series of book awards programs in 1996. Today, Jenkins Group proudly presents six prestigious book award contests: the Independent Publisher (IPPY) Book Awards, Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards, Axiom Book Awards, Axiom Business Book Awards, eLit Book Awards, and Axiom Christian Book Awards.

A graduate of Alma College, Jenkins worked as a financial and investment management group account executive before his publishing career.

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Jim Kalajian

Jim Kalajian

President & COO
231.933.0445 ext. 1006

Jim oversees the daily operations at Jenkins Group, ensuring seamless workflows across both customer-facing and back-office functions, with a focus on the custom book publishing and book awards divisions.

He joined the company in 1999, bringing over a decade of operational and organizational change experience from his time at the leading consulting firm, Accenture. Jim applies his expertise in finance, IT, process management, human resources, and communication across all teams within Jenkins Group. His skills in problem-solving, project planning, change management, and quantitative analysis drive continuous improvement for both clients and employees. 

Jim holds a B.S. in Engineering Arts from Michigan State University.

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