The object of the Awards is to encourage the writing, reading and publishing of books about the Isle of Wight; to draw attention to the beauty and glories and heritage of the Isle of Wight; to reward and praise authors, many of whom will perhaps never have produced a book before. Certificates are awarded in three categories: fiction, nonfiction and children's manuscripts, with one of those receiving the first prize overall. The books can be novels, non fiction, memoirs, poetry, guide books, picture books, children's books- anything really, as long as the contents are in some part connected with the Isle of Wight