READ THE BEST BOOKS FROM THE NORTHLAND!
INVITATION FOR READING TEAM MEMBERS
2026 NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTA BOOK AWARDS
Join a NEMBA Reading Team and help choose a winning book that captures the
spirit of northeastern Minnesota!
Who can serve on a Reading Team? We’re looking for book-lovers to serve on one of the reading teams that will select the winning book in each of the six categories—Nonfiction/Memoir, Fiction, Children’s Literature/Middle Grade, and Poetry. We are not looking for professional literary critics, but rather a group of open-minded readers who represent the different backgrounds and lifestyles of the Northland.
How does a Reading Team work? Each of the six reading teams will be composed of up to 4 members with a designated leader. When you apply, you share your preference as to which team you would like to serve on, and we do our best to place you on the best team for you. After the book nominations window has closed, we will let you know to which reading team you have been assigned.
After receiving their bundles of books, teams will meet several times (meeting by Zoom can be an option) between August and October 2026 to discuss the nominated books. They will select a Winner and Honorable Mention and write a short synopsis of each book. The winners of the awards will be announced at a public ceremony in The St. Louis County Depot on on November 21 in the Great Hall.
If you would like to join a Reading Team, please complete the online application form. Applications will be accepted until June 30, and you will be notified in mid to late July. If you have served on a reading team in the past, please consider serving as a team leader. We would very much appreciate your willingness to lead a team.
Questions? Please contact writers@lakesuperiorwriters.org with any questions about joining a reading team.
What is NEMBA? The Northeastern Minnesota Book Awards recognize authors and books that represent northeastern Minnesota or close neighboring regions in the areas of history, culture, heritage and lifestyle. The Reading Teams will be looking at books published in 2025, with winners announced in fall of 2026.
Thank you for your interest in serving on a NEMBA Reading Team!
Team members will be notified in mid to late July 2026.
Lake Superior Writers 