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Brief History of The Georgia Author of the Year Awards (GAYA) The Georgia Author of the Year Awards were created in 1964 by the founders of the Dixie Council of Authors and Journalists. In 1984 that organization became the Council of Authors and Journalists (CAJ), and when Georgia Writers Association was born, the last remaining CAJ members voted to turn over the duties and responsibilities of the then thirty-year old event, to GWA. GAYA has thrived and remains the oldest literary award in the Southeastern region. The purpose of the Georgia Author of the Year Awards, (GAYA) is similar to that of Georgia Writers Association itself; to recognize and acknowledge Georgia's wealth of outstanding writers and to acquaint them with the public and one another, thus continuing our literary heritage. GAYA is unique in that independently-published authors and those whose books have been published by traditional publishers are both recognized. The thinking behind this is that every author's work deserves an opportunity to stand against the works of other authors.The writing of a book, any book, requires not only a certain degree of talent but also requires commitment and focus. In these days of deteriorating language skills and ease of independent publishing it is hoped that independently-published authors will give greater regard to both the art and the skill required to produce works of lasting value and to pay serious attention to the editing process. Eligible are all Georgia-resident authors whose books will have been published (publish date) during the current calendar year (2007). Anyone may submit a book for consideration or nomination. Questions? phone 770-420-4736 or email lmrussell@georgiawriters.org. BANQUET RESERVATIONS for the 44th GAYA - June 7, 2008 - KSU Center
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