Second Place Grand Prize in Nonfiction | 2025 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
DAHLONEGA, GA — May 21, 2025 — The UNG Press title Cherokee History and the Spirit Family, by James Barnes, has earned the Second Place Grand Prize in Nonfiction at the 2025 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the largest international awards program for independent authors and publishers.
This prestigious recognition underscores the book’s outstanding literary merit and historical value, placing it among the top independently published nonfiction books of the year.
A Powerful Cherokee History Book Honoring Family and Nation
A sweeping, yet personal view of one of America’s greatest historical tragedies, Cherokee History and the Spirit Family tells the moving true story of the Spirit family’s journey along the Trail of Tears. Blending personal family history with extensive research, author James Barnes, a direct descendant of the Spirit family, brings to life the broader narrative of Cherokee removal, resistance, and survival from 1826 to 1910.
Key historical themes include:
- The Trail of Tears and its generational impact
- Cherokee sovereignty and identity
- The effects of Allotment policy and the Civil War on Native families
- The enduring power of love, joy, and cultural resilience in the face of oppression
This book is ideal for readers of Indigenous history books, historical nonfiction, and educational materials on Native American history.
Recognition from the Largest Indie Book Awards Program
Now in its 18th year, the Next Generation Indie Book Awards highlight excellence across 80+ categories of independently published books. Winners were selected by a panel of industry professionals, including veteran editors and literary agents with experience at top publishing houses like HarperCollins and Penguin Random House.
In addition to a $750 prize, Barnes’s book will be reviewed for film, foreign rights, and broader distribution by Marilyn Allen, a high-profile New York literary agent who has represented bestselling authors including Stephen King and Barbara Kingsolver.
The awards gala will take place June 27, 2025, at The Notary Hotel in Philadelphia, and will be livestreamed via Next Generation Indie Book Awards on Facebook at 5:00 p.m. EST.
Why This Matters: Elevating Cherokee Voices and Independent Publishing
At a time when public interest in Native American history and Indigenous rights is growing, Cherokee History and the Spirit Family offers a compelling and emotionally rich account that bridges academic research and lived experience. Its national recognition by the Next Generation Indie Book Awards affirms both its literary excellence and cultural importance.
Where to Buy Cherokee History and the Spirit Family
This award-winning nonfiction book is available from:
- UNG Press
- Independent bookstores
- Major online retailers including Amazon and Barnes & Noble
Librarians, educators, and reviewers can request digital review copies or bulk discounts by contacting the UNG Press.
Media Coverage, Interview Requests, and Book Reviews Welcome
Interested in covering this story or speaking with author James Barnes? We welcome:
- Media inquiries
- Podcast and broadcast interviews
- Book club features
- Academic course adoptions
- Reviews by literary bloggers and influencers
Email ungpress@ung.edu to request a review copy or coordinate coverage.