As the awards shows season draws to a close, we are left looking back on the best movies, actors and actresses, songs, designers, and directors of this past year.  It is always interesting to find out who or what won, but I can’t help but wonder what it would be like if a new awards ceremony were introduced, dealing not with films, but with books.  So, without further ado here are some potential winners…

Best plot development:  Inferno by Dan Brown

If you’re looking for a book that will keep you glued to the page, look no further. Inferno is a thrilling series of twists and turns including art history, science, coded messages, and constant excitement.

Best character development: America from The Elite by Kiera Cass

In the second book of the Selection series, 17-year-old America continues to be a thrilling character to follow.  In the beginning of her story she was a reluctant lovesick teenager, but in The Elite we see her grow and find strength, aspirations, and kindness in the most uncommon of places.

Best supporting character: Reagan from Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Reagan in Fangirl embodies a realistic image of a college roommate.  Her friendship is mature and inspiring, and she continuously sticks up for what she believes in throughout the book.  Overall, she is a strong feminist character who breaks the pushy and obnoxious stereotype, but also knows what is right and how to defend it.

Best villain:  Vaughn from The Chemical Garden series by Lauren DeStefano

This guy takes mad scientist to a whole new level.  Everything about him, from his appearance to his words to his actions gives the sole impression of being creepy and unsettling.  He terrorizes main character Rhine, as well as his own son and even possibly wife throughout the series while reaching new levels of insane and evil.

Best poetry collection:  Egghead by Bo Burnham

In this illustrated book Burnham has created a collection similar to that of Shel Silverstein.  Each poem is amusing and quirky, addressing real life issues from unique and interesting points of view.

Best female lead:  Tris from Allegiant by Veronica Roth

Throughout the whole Divergent series, Tris is an admirable female lead.  While she fits into the category of a strong woman, she is also human and flawed.  She makes mistakes and sometimes isn’t nearly kind enough, but that is what makes her such an appealing character.

Best male lead:  Graham Larkin from This is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith

Based on his name it is a pretty safe bet to say Graham Larkin is a pop star.  Spoiler alert: he is, but erase any preconceived notions you may have, because Graham goes against all of them. Despite his fame he proves to be a kind, lovable character who will surprise you and keep you guessing.

Best love story:  Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

This is not your typical teenage love story, and this is not a love story only for teenagers.  This love story is beautiful and truthful, depicting two misfits who know that their first love won’t last, but dare to try regardless, all while facing real life problems that are both heartbreaking and admirable.  It will make you laugh, it will make you cry, and it will definitely make you fall in love.