Every year, many await the arrival of great news. The long wait is over—the results for the 2025 Eric Hoffer Book Award have been released. Back to Somalia by Glenn A. Bell has been nominated for this prestigious honor.
The announcement of the 2025 Eric Hoffer Book Award winners marks a significant milestone in the literary world, spotlighting the exceptional achievements of authors and publishers who embody the spirit of independent thought and creativity. This esteemed award continues to honor the legacy of the great American philosopher Eric Hoffer by recognizing books of outstanding merit from small, academic, and independent presses—including self-published works.
The award encompasses a range of honors, including the Grand Prize, category winners, runners-up, and honorable mentions across various genres. Additionally, special distinctions—such as the Montaigne Medal for the most thought-provoking books, the da Vinci Eye for superior book cover art, the First Horizon Award for debut authors, and the Medal Provocateur for experimental poetry—further highlight the diversity and excellence within the independent publishing community.
While the Grand Prize is the pinnacle of the Eric Hoffer Book Award, the significance of a nomination cannot be overstated. The rigorous judging process ensures that only the most exceptional works rise to the top, with fewer than 10% of nominees becoming category finalists. This distinction not only validates the quality and impact of a book but also provides authors and publishers with increased visibility and credibility in the competitive literary market.
Moreover, the recognition associated with a nomination can lead to broader media exposure, opportunities for speaking engagements, and increased sales. For independent authors and publishers, such acknowledgment can be transformative—opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.
This year, Back to Somalia by Glenn A. Bell has been nominated for an award. This recognition honors the book’s exceptional literary merit and its contribution to independent publishing. Selected for its originality, depth, and thought-provoking content, the book exemplifies the spirit of the award by offering a unique and compelling voice that resonates beyond mainstream publishing. Whether through powerful storytelling, insightful analysis, or innovative ideas, the work reflects a dedication to intellectual exploration and artistic integrity. Its nomination highlights not only the quality of the writing but also its meaningful impact on readers—staying true to the legacy of Eric Hoffer by encouraging critical thinking and celebrating the independent spirit.
The book received acclaim from Mark Heisey of the US Review of Books, who wrote:
“Bell’s military adventure is a heist story at its heart. Having served as an Army helicopter pilot and air mission commander in real life, Bell fills his novel with his firsthand knowledge of the aircraft involved and the manner in which missions are conceived and executed. His writing is detailed and businesslike, and his sentences are clear. The protagonist speaks disparagingly of Muslims and Islam, which some might find offensive. There are also points where too much minute information is shared, but military enthusiasts will likely enjoy the additional particulars. The action scenes are engaging, feeling like a mix of The A-Team and Top Gun. Readers who are looking for an armed forces-inspired novel centered on mission planning and attack choppers will find all of that in this book.”
Back to Somalia by Glenn A. Bell is set to hit the big screen with the release of its Hollywood movie script, treatment, and screenplay, which explore themes of duty, sacrifice, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of justice. The story delves into the moral complexities of military operations and the personal toll they can take on soldiers. It is an intense and gripping military thriller that takes readers on a high-stakes journey into the heart of covert operations. The novel excels in several key areas, creating a compelling and memorable story. Watch the video trailer below:
Author Glenn Bell was born in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He grew up hunting in the woods of southwestern Louisiana and fishing in the lakes and rivers within Calcasieu Parish. Glenn loves the spicy Cajun cuisine of his native state, and word has it he makes one of the South’s best old-fashioned pecan pies.
Last year, in partnership with ARPress, Glenn Bell held a successful book signing event during the 2024 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books (LATFOB) at the University of Southern California. LATFOB is considered one of the world’s most significant literary gatherings. It has been held annually since 1996, with the goal of bringing together people who create books and those who love to read them. The 2024 event featured more than 550 authors, celebrities, storytellers, and hundreds of exhibitors.
Also, This Week in America featured an interview with Glenn A. Bell. The program combines entertainment with education and information. Experienced broadcaster Ric Bratton, who has a long history in the broadcast industry and has worked with icons such as Larry King, Hugh Downs, Chris Matthews, Jay Leno, George Clooney, and Katie Couric, serves as the host. Click here to listen to the full interview:
Judging for this year’s award has officially concluded, and we’re pleased to share the results. You can view the winners by visiting the Eric Hoffer Award page at: