Festival of Words Author Award
Inaugurated in 2001, the American Indian Festival of Words Author Award recognizes literary contributions of outstanding American Indian authors. It is the first and only award given by a public library to honor an American Indian author. The award is given in odd-numbered years. Recipients receive a $5,000 cash prize and specially designed trophy.
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LeAnne Howe, an author, playwright, and scholar and a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma received the award in 2011. |
Carter Revard, a scholar, poet, author and member of the Osage Nation, received the 2007 award. |
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Leslie Marmon Silko, the 1st acclaimed American Indian woman novelist, received the award in 2005 |
Vine Deloria Jr., a scholar, political activist, author and member of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe, received the 2003 award. |
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Joy Harjo, a Muscogee (Creek) poet and native Tulsan, received the inaugural award in 2001. |