We’re proud to celebrate a remarkable achievement for Evening Post Books: three of our titles have been recognized in the 2026 Independent Publisher Book Awards (IPPYs), honoring the powerful stories, dedicated authors, and meaningful conversations at the heart of our publishing program.
The IPPY Awards celebrate excellence in independent publishing and recognize books that make a lasting impact on readers. This year, Ahead of Her Time, Beacon of the Lowcountry, and Rising Waters each received national recognition in their respective categories.
Ahead of Her Time by Nancy Thode
Silver Medal Winner — Biography
Nancy Thode brings her mother, Ann Head, a pioneering voice of mid-century fiction, back into the spotlight. Drawing on journals, letters, archival research, and previously unpublished material—including letters from a young Pat Conroy—Ahead of Her Time offers an intimate portrait of a remarkable Southern writer and the lasting influence of her work.
Beacon of the Lowcountry by Tracey Booth Owens
Bronze Medal Winner — Southeast Nonfiction
Through her father’s paintings, recordings, letters, and photographs, Tracey Booth Owens tells the story of beloved Charleston artist Jim Booth. Beacon of the Lowcountry is a richly illustrated tribute to an artist who spent more than four decades capturing the landscapes and spirit of the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Rising Waters by Tony Bartelme
Bronze Medal Winner — Environment/Ecology
In Rising Waters, award-winning journalist Tony Bartelme explores the realities of climate change and rising seas, using Charleston as a lens for a much larger global story. Through compelling reporting and human stories, the book examines the challenges facing coastal communities and the choices that will shape our future.
We are honored to see these three books recognized and grateful to Nancy Thode, Tracey Booth Owens, and Tony Bartelme for trusting us to help share their work with readers.
Congratulations to our authors and everyone who helped bring these award-winning books to life!
Interested in sharing your own story? Evening Post Books is currently accepting manuscript submissions through August 31. Learn more about submitting your work HERE.