Grandma’s Sandals Named a Finalist in the 20th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards
- Jodie Barton
- Aug 16
- 2 min read
11 June, 2026
Another wonderful milestone for Grandma’s Sandals! 🏆
I’m very proud to share that Grandma’s Sandals has been named a Finalist in the 20th Annual National Indie Excellence® Awards (NIEA). in the category of Picture Books - All Ages.
Celebrating its 20th year in 2026, the National Indie Excellence Awards recognise outstanding independently published books from self-published authors, independent and small-to-mid-sized presses, and university presses. Entries are evaluated by publishing industry professionals, including publishers, authors, editors and book designers, with consideration given not only to literary merit, but also to the quality of a book’s design, presentation and production. That makes this recognition especially meaningful to me.
Grandma’s Sandals was published through my own independent imprint, Winterpaw Books, and creating it involved so much more than writing the words. From developing Long’s story and working alongside the wonderful Ana Rodic on the illustrations, to countless decisions about design, production and the finished book, it has been an enormous labour of love.
At the heart of it all, however, has always been Long.
Inspired by my experiences teaching migrant and refugee children, his story explores culture, identity, memory and belonging, and the idea that finding your place in a new country doesn’t mean leaving behind the people, places and traditions that helped make you who you are.
To have Grandma’s Sandals recognised by the National Indie Excellence Awards in its 20th anniversary year is another very special moment in this little book’s journey. A huge thank you to the NIEA judges for this recognition, to Ana for bringing Long’s world so beautifully to life, and to everyone who continues to read, share and support Grandma’s Sandals. ❤️
Written by Jodie Barton | Illustrated by Ana Rodic | Winterpaw Books
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