From Dream to Reality

It’s one thing for your friends, family, and colleagues to like your book. But it is another when the critics/experts select it for an award. I didn’t actually understand what I was applying for in April of 2020, just a few days after my book was published. I thought it was a local reviewing Award Organization. I was tickled to know that my book had moved from the slush batch, to the long list, to the shortlist, to the semi-finalists, and to the finalists. However, during the award ceremony I learned that the Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBA) is truly International. The reviewers/judges are from throughout the US, Canada and the UK with entries from all over the world. It was only at that moment that I understood what my competition was for my category of narrative non-fiction/memoir. The Journey Award seeks a true compelling story that weaves the tales of travel, adventure, and life experiences while overcoming trauma and adversity. I am honored and humbled to win FIRST PLACE (a blue ribbon) in my category. It was a dream to be acknowledged to a broader audience. That dream has become reality. Read the book review in Peace Corps Worldwide.

Thank you to all my supporters. Feel free to make comments below in this blog.

33 thoughts on “From Dream to Reality”

  1. Congratulations, Susan! The reviewers recognized what your friends, family and colleagues knew all along! A well deserved honor and recognition of your skill. Tricia

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    1. That is so kind of you. It’s really hard to judge being a first-time author. Thank you so much for your support and I look forward to doing an author talk at your independent bookstore when I visit you sometime in the future.

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  10. WOW! Who would have “thunk” it 50 years ago that one of our fellow volunteers down that “dirt road” would become an accomplished author, famous for her love of travel, new experiences and her love of all that is “life” that she has shared with so many.
    CONGRATS, Zorgowee Sue! What an honor! A lot of hard work became your dream reality!

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    1. Claire, so wonderful hearing from you. I heard you were circulating among our RPCV friends back home. Yes, I was just up that dirt road, barely into adulthood. And maybe because of that naiveté, I saw Liberia through that set of lenses that you seasoned volunteers saw in a different light. I was amazed how much I didn’t know. How I survived still amazes me. Thanks for being in touch and contact me through my website and we can exchange contact info. Best to you and Dave.
      Love, Gowee Sue

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    1. I am so excited for you! You deserve this accolade. Your hard work in this and other projects confirms my belief in your many talents! Congratulation on this well deserved honor.

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  14. Susan, your friends and readers are so proud of you, and now recognition spreads. How pleased I am for you. Deepest congratulations for this well deserved award!
    Yours, Leslie

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  18. Susan, One of the signs of a really great book is when a very personal story becomes a story so many readers can relate to. Your story is that and more. Your recognition is well deserved; Congratulations!!
    Glo

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