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. “Thoughts on Marriage: A Journey to Oneness” by Paul N. Munden 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, “Thoughts on Marriage: A Journey to Oneness” by Paul N. Munden 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.
“Thoughts on Marriage: A Journey to Oneness” by Paul N. Munden was acclaimed by Barbara Bamberger Scott of the US Review of Books, who highlighted that “This book serves partially as a testament of faith and works and also a historical document of sorts.”
The US Review of Books (USRB) recommends “Thoughts on Marriage: A Journey to Oneness” by Paul N. Munden. Here’s the review from the USRB that highlights:
“Munden, who had a career as a CPA and demonstrates that even within that profession can be seen the general trials and expectations of life, has arrayed his commentary on love, marriage, and the ideal of oneness in a logical fashion. He departs from the purely didactic stance in his poignant poetic offerings: “The flowers I give to thee / are arranged so carefully / a purple one here, a yellow one there / for your love’s a bouquet to me.” His marriage thesis is based on his own long and successful bonding and includes his insightful evaluation in a lengthy appendix of such difficult issues as pro-choice decisions. Extolling throughout a Christian-based, ever-changing, and expanding marriage bond, Munden’s work provides a fine focus for group discussion both for those enwrapped in a marital relationship and those contemplating that significant commitment.”
Paul N. Munden was born and raised in Norfolk, VA. He has been married for 47 years to Mary Elizabeth Nein. Their children are Laura, Catherine, and Robert. He graduated from Norview High School in 1972, Norfolk. He worked in forestry for 9 years, obtaining a BS in forest resource management and a 76 from VA Tech in Blacksburg, VA. He worked 33 years as a CPA, having obtained a post-baccalaureate certificate, 86, from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. He received a Master of Religion with a concentration in workplace theology in 2015 from Gordon Conwell Seminary in Beverly, MA. Now he’s retired.
Author Munden shares an expansive, spiritually based view of marriage and its links to the Holy Trinity. Through various cogent essays and tender, thought-evoking poetic pieces, he makes the case that God is both one and three: the trinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Similarly, marriage links two individuals who make the decision to meld both pragmatically and romantically and to add to their relationship by opening it to a “third quality”—children (and pets).
“Thoughts on Marriage: A Journey to Oneness” by Paul N. Munden is a profound exploration of marriage, blending poetic reflections with practical insights. The book celebrates the beauty of unity in relationships while addressing challenges like communication, shared growth, and enduring love. This work emphasizes the importance of seeing marriage as a partnership that continually evolves through mutual effort and intentional care.
The moral lesson of the book is that love, commitment, and mutual respect are the cornerstones of a successful marriage. Paul reminds readers that marriage is not about perfection but about two people working together to build a life rooted in understanding and faith.
He was also interviewed by Benjie Cole of CBS Radio. His book is the culmination of decades of observation, experience, and reflection. Inspired by his own marriage and the relationships he’s encountered throughout his life, Paul wrote the book to emphasize the positive aspects of marriage while also addressing common challenges. Listen to the full interview below:
Judging for this year’s award has officially concluded, and we’re pleased to share the final results. You can view the winners by visiting the Eric Hoffer Award page at: