Florida State University Libraries welcomed authors, scholars and literary enthusiasts to the Abitz Family Dinner, an annual event celebrating the winners of the 2024 Florida Book Awards.
Now in its 19th year, the Florida Book Awards (FBA) remains one of the nation’s most comprehensive statewide book awards program. This year’s competition saw more than 190 eligible publications submitted across 11 categories, showcasing the depth of Florida’s literary talent.
“Year after year, the sheer turnout of submissions amazes me,” said Keith Simmons, director and host of the Florida Book Awards. “It goes to show how many passionate storytellers and creatives that are out there. It will always be a pleasure to recognize the winners for the Florida Book Awards.”
At the event, Gale Estchmaier, dean of FSU Libraries, addressed attendees, congratulating the winners and emphasized the vital role of storytelling and the humanities.
“The hard work and dedication of these authors enrich our culture and inspire us all,” she said.
Among the evening’s highlights were the presentations of prestigious awards, including:
Phillip and Dana Zimmerman Gold Medal for Florida Nonfiction: “Florida Springs: From Geography to Politics and Restoration,” by Christopher Meindl.
Jean E. Lowrie Gold Medal for Older Children’s Literature: “The Lost Forest: An Unexpected Discovery Beneath the Waves,” by Jennifer Swanson.
Gwen P. Reichert Gold Medal for Young Children’s Literature: “Mango Memories,” by Sita Singh.
“The FBA celebrates these scribes who take time to research, ponder and present to the reader finished thoughtful works that help us enhance our knowledge base and to escape and foster our imagination,” said Sally Karioth, a longtime faculty member in the College of Nursing. “I’ve been honored to be part of FBA these last few years and to honor one of the great Tallahassee wordsmiths, Gerald Ensley, and to watch young writers write about the complexity of the world and the people who live here.”
Profiles of the 2024 winners will be featured in the summer edition of FORUM Magazine, published by Florida Humanities.
For a complete list of this year’s recipients, visit news.fsu.edu. Details about the 2025 Florida Book Awards will be announced later this summer.