Barnacle Editions, in partnership with Chatwin Books, will be awarding a $1,000 book prize in memory of the late Mary Camezon, a beloved educator, arts leader and volunteer. 

The 2025 Mary Camezon Prize for Books That Inspire Young Readers will be awarded to the author of the best submission received by Barnacle Editions during their 2024 open submission window. 

More about Mary Camezon

Mary attended Western Washington University, Washington State University, and the University of Washington. She began her teaching career in Washington State, and then after moving to California in the late 60's, taught English at San Lorenzo High School, then Arroyo High School in San Lorenzo until 1998, including being named Teacher of the Year. Inspiring students to learn was her gift and passion.

Mary didn't retire from teaching, she transitioned into working with schools, teachers, principals and administrators to improve student learning, first with the non-profit WestEd and later Napa-Solano-Contra Costa Counties Offices of Education. She worked with teachers and districts across California, and built many treasured friendships. She was known for being student-centered in her approach and courageous enough to challenge school districts and boards of education to make the necessary changes that large organizations often find difficult. She was compelling in her urgency and never let anyone lose sight of the necessity for reform. She was noted for her mentorship of teachers and administrators, a part of the job she loved. Mary always had the right words that inspired people to see the needs of students without shaming or blaming. She always supported people engaged in worthwhile work, and was gifted in helping people in challenging circumstances to focus on the things they had power to change.

Outside the education field, many people knew Mary because of her volunteer work with arts organizations such as the Eugene O'Neill Foundation, where she served for many years as a board member, Secretary, and Treasurer, and also at Role Players Ensemble, where she served as President. She was also active in her education sororities Alpha Delta Kappa and Delta Kappa Gamma.

The Nuts and Bolts:

Due to the volume of submissions, we will only be responding to manuscripts we are interested in pursuing. One work that is selected for publication will be awarded the Mary Camezon Prize for Books that Inspire Young Readers. A short list will be announced in early 2025 and the award winner will be announced in spring of 2025.

Please review our submission guidelines here.