Media Coverage
As my literary journey continues to grow, I am excited to share several new additions to my Media Coverage page. These appearances and discussions have provided wonderful opportunities to connect with readers, fellow authors, and members of the literary community while sharing the story behind Inheritance of Silence and my experiences as an emerging contemporary fiction author.
Featured Interview: Your BookTube Bestie with Koda
One of the highlights of this year has been my candid interview with Your BookTube Bestie, Koda. During our conversation, we explored the inspiration behind Inheritance of Silence, the challenges and triumphs of the publishing process, and the deeply personal experiences that influenced my writing. The interview offered viewers a behind-the-scenes look at my journey from aspiring author to award-nominated novelist and provided an opportunity to discuss the themes of resilience, identity, and self-discovery that are woven throughout my work.
Guest Host Appearances on Reading Sprints
In addition to traditional interviews, I have had the privilege of serving as a guest host during several reading sprint sessions. These interactive events brought together readers, authors, and book enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate literature and encourage dedicated reading time within a supportive community.
As a guest host, I had the opportunity to discuss books, connect with readers, share insights into my own work, and participate in engaging conversations about storytelling and the impact literature can have on our lives. These experiences have allowed me to build meaningful connections within the reading community while introducing new audiences to Inheritance of Silence and my journey as an author.
Participating in these reading sprints has reinforced my belief that books have the power to bring people together, spark important conversations, and create lasting connections among readers from all walks of life.
First Live Stream: From Silence to Recognition β My Author Journey
I am also proud to have hosted my very first YouTube live stream, "From Silence to Recognition: My Author Journey." During this special event, I reflected on the path that led to the publication of Inheritance of Silence, discussed the recognition the novel has received through various literary awards and nominations, and answered questions from viewers about writing, publishing, and perseverance.
The live stream represented an important milestone in my careerβnot only as an author but also as someone willing to openly share the challenges, setbacks, and victories that have shaped my story. It was an opportunity to celebrate how far this journey has come and to thank the readers, supporters, reviewers, and fellow writers who have been part of it.
2026 Literary Award Season
Award-winning author John Erik Dunnam and his debut novel, Inheritance of Silence, have earned multiple honors during the 2026 literary award season, receiving recognition across international and independent literary award programs.
2026 Shakespeare Global Prize Awards
Inheritance of Silence received two prestigious honors at the 2026 Shakespeare Global Prize Awards:
π Winner β Contemporary Fiction
π Winner β Best Independent Press Title
Presented by the Shakespeare Global Prize, these honors recognize literary achievement among authors whose work demonstrates excellence in storytelling, originality, emotional impact, and artistic merit.
2026 Storytrade Book Awards
Inheritance of Silence was officially named a:
π Finalist β Contemporary Fiction
The 2026 Storytrade Book Awards recognition adds another distinction to the novel's growing awards record and places Dunnam's debut among the contemporary fiction titles selected for recognition in Storytrade's international awards program.
2026 International Impact Book Awards
Dunnam has also received recognition from the International Impact Book Awards, earning:
π Finalist β Author of the Year, Contemporary Fiction
The Author of the Year recognition honors Dunnam's work and growing impact as a contemporary fiction author, adding an author-level distinction to the individual honors received by Inheritance of Silence.
Published by Austin Macauley Publishers, Inheritance of Silence has been recognized for its emotionally authentic exploration of grief, healing, identity, resilience, belonging, and the courage required to reclaim one's voice.
Through richly developed characters and compassionate storytelling, the novel examines the transformative power of human connection, chosen family, hope, and personal renewal.
Together, Dunnam's two Shakespeare Global Prize wins, Storytrade Book Awards finalist recognition, and International Impact Book Awards Author of the Year finalist recognition represent a significant milestone in his emerging literary career and an exceptional awards season for a debut novel.
These honors continue to expand the national and international recognition surrounding Inheritance of Silence while establishing John Erik Dunnam as an award-winning voice in contemporary fiction.
Looking Ahead
As media opportunities continue to expand, I look forward to participating in more interviews, podcasts, livestreams, literary discussions, and community events. Every conversation provides another chance to connect with readers and share the message at the heart of my work: that our stories matter, our voices deserve to be heard, and even the deepest silence can eventually give way to recognition.
Thank you for following along on this incredible journey. More appearances, interviews, and exciting announcements are on the horizon.