The annual Nautilus Book Awards list has been revealed and one of the region's authors is among the medalists.
Bulkley Valley pianist-turned-writer Serge Mazerand picked up a silver award in the Personal Growth (Self Published & Small Press) category.
"It's an award that recognizes books that contribute to spiritual awakening and empowering self," said Mazerand.
To earn the accolade, Mazerand's book Seven Keys To Serenity: Creating Harmony Within (based on music as an illustrative force for directing positive changes in one's life) had to pass through an application and multi-jury judging process.
"The largest award, the most significant award, is the feedback I get from readers who tell me what a difference my book has helped them make within themselves," said Mazerand, after hearing the news of his trophy. "The biggest issue nowadays, and we keep seeing it all around us, is that we are in an age of superconnection but it has caused us to lose connection with ourselves. People have lost the sense of self love and self respect. When that is lost, you don't feel like taking care of yourself."
In addition to live piano performances and working on recordings of his music, as well as enjoying nature around his rural home near Smithers, Mazerand is also in the process of writing a sequel to his first book.
