Your favorite Indiana author?

The deadline is March 26 to nominate your favorite book writers for the indiana Authors Awards, a program of the Indianapolis-Marion
County Public Library.

Nominations are being accepted in three categories, each coming with a cash prize.

There's a $10,000 prize for National Author, given to an author whose work is "known and read throughout the country."
These are judged based on body of work. Last year's winner was James Alexander Thom.

There's a $7,500 Regional Author award, given to a writer "well-known and respected throughout the state of Indiana."
This one is also judged on body of work. Last year's winner was Susan Neville.

And there's a $5,000 Emerging Author award, given to a writer with just one published book. Last year that was Christine
Montross.

Nominations are being accepted here.

While the public is offering up the nominees, a committee will determine the winners.

So who's on your list? And do you think such honors elevate the status of hometown writers?