Author Deborah Burggraaf Receives Recognition

Author Deborah Burggraaf with Chuck Fasilis, the photographer/illustrator she collaborated with on the book.

The annual 2021 Florida Authors and Publishers Association President’s Book Awards recently recognized BHANTE: The Corgi of O’side by Deborah Burggraaf in the categories of Children’s-General and Inspirational, as both bronze medal awards.

Hosted by the Florida Authors and Publishers Association, this prestigious national award is open to books published between 2019 and 2021. The judges for this national competition are librarians, educators and publishing professionals.

“The FAPA President’s Book Award exists to promote excellence in the publishing industry by recognizing talented contemporary authors who put both heart and soul into their work. FAPA is proud to be a champion of authors and publishers going the extra mile to produce books of excellence in every aspect,” said Pat Stanford, past president of FAPA.

BHANTE: The Corgi of O’side is a nonfiction photo book, published by Protective Hands Communications, which takes place in scenic, Oceanside, California. It is about Bhante, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi who enjoys his coastal life as he meets locals and tourists alike, sharing his friendly, “loving kindness” with all.

“We are proud to announce this year’s winners who truly embody the excellence this award was created to celebrate. Their works are representative of creative storytelling, bold concepts, and innovative ideas which make the President’s Book Awards so well respected by librarians and those in the publishing industry. We salute all of our winners for their fine work,” FAPA President Renee Garrison said.

The Florida Authors and Publishers Association is an organization for authors, publishers, illustrators, editors, printers and other professionals involved in the publishing industry. It focuses on providing the highest quality of information, resources and professional development to members and others interested in the writing and publishing profession.