Geralyn Hesslau Magrady, the 2016 winner of the Soon to Be Famous Illinois Author Project, recently took to Facebook to celebrate the tenth anniversary of her victory for her novel, Lines.
Reflecting on the impact of the Illinois library contest, Magrady shared: “Winning this award was an incredibly positive experience for me.” She highlighted the joy of engaging with book clubs, speaking at libraries, and appearing on various podcasts, noting that the recognition served as a vital inspiration to continue her writing journey. Geralyn's Facebook post.
As the project celebrates these success stories, the current committee—Eva Baggili, Jeffrey Fisher, Gretchen Murphy, Denise Raleigh, Lucy Tarabour, and Nicole Zimmermann—is thrilled to announce a major evolution. Leadership of the Soon to Be Famous project is moving to the next level under the guidance of Jennifer Lizak, Coordinator of Special Projects at the Chicago Public Library.
At a recent transition meeting that also included Nash Steele of supporter Lyrasis, organizers agreed that moving this over 12-year-old, library-run contest to the Chicago Public Library system—with its expansive network of 80 branches—will significantly amplify its visibility. This move is designed to further bridge the gap between Illinois’ talented self-published authors and a growing community of local readers.
“Chicago Public Library is thrilled to be able to build upon the important work of the Soon to Be Famous Illinois Author Project committee and continue the Project's legacy of uplifting indie authors and showcasing the vibrant, diverse voices of Illinois. We are looking forward to growing this program and continuing to encourage Illinois authors in their writing careers!” said Jennifer Lizak.
This Year's Winner
The selection committee is excited to announce the winner for the 2025 Soon to Be Famous Illinois Author Project: Breathe by Sara Fujimura (Schaumburg Township District Library). The other two finalists were The Bag Ladies of Ebondale by Michelle Davis-Newell (University Park Public Library District) and Mandrake Manor by JP Rindfleisch IX (Rockford Public Library). Congratulations! They were among 82 authors who submitted their work for consideration in 2025.
2026 Contest Is Open - Call to Authors
Authors can submit their self-published books for next year’s contest at soontobefamous.info.
We’re looking for the best adult and YA fiction and memoirs by Illinois self- and indie-published authors for a chance to win a cash prize and statewide recognition. Through our annual contest, we’re helping Illinois libraries connect local authors with readers. Beyond prizes and perks, a nod from the library community provides essential credibility and helps authors stand out in an increasingly crowded digital marketplace.
Many of these self-published books are then available via libraries through an online, easy-to-use BiblioBoard collection.
Judged exclusively by Illinois library staff members, the Soon to Be Famous Illinois Author Project contest is a powerful way for authors to elevate their careers and writing goals, powered by the library community. In addition to prizes and perks, being recognized by librarians creates credibility and visibility for authors, setting them apart in a growing marketplace of digital content and self- and indie-published books.