The PenCraft Book Awards has announced the runner-up winners for its 2025 competition, recognizing literary excellence across numerous categories. The selection process was particularly challenging this year due to the high volume of outstanding submissions, reflecting the diversity and depth of contemporary storytelling. Among the recognized works are several titles in business and technology categories that directly address current challenges and opportunities in these fields.
In the Non Fiction - Business/Finance category, several runner-up titles stand out for their relevance to leaders in business and technology. Transcend: Unlocking Humanity in the Age of AI by Faisal Hoque explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and human potential, a critical topic as AI integration accelerates across industries. Non-Obvious Thinking by Rohit Bhargava and Ben duPont offers approaches to innovative problem-solving, while Layered Leadership: Drive Double-Digit Growth and Dominate Your Competition with Creative Strategies and Execution by Lawrence Armstrong provides strategic frameworks for competitive advantage. The Wealth Elevator: Real Estate Syndications, Accredited Investor Banking, and Tax Strategies for First-Gen Millionaires by Lane Kawaoka addresses financial growth strategies relevant to entrepreneurs and investors.
Another significant runner-up is Seeking Fairness at Work by Hanna Hasl-Kelchner, which examines workplace equity issues that have gained prominence in corporate discussions. In the education category, CYBERSECURITY - Safeguarding Our Digital World by Justin Kojok provides timely insights into digital protection as cyber threats continue to evolve. These works collectively offer practical knowledge for business leaders managing technological integration, workforce dynamics, and security concerns.
The technology theme extends to other categories as well. The Age of Decay by Shamil Ismail in the Non Fiction - General category and Our Global Crisis by Brian McLean may address systemic challenges in the digital era. Thinking at the Speed of Bias by Sara Taylor explores cognitive processes relevant to decision-making in fast-paced business environments. Additionally, Latina Madrina: Stories, Lessons, and Hard Truths From A Brown Latina In Tech by Julissa S. Germosen in the Non Fiction - Motivational category offers perspective on diversity in the technology sector.
David Hearne, Editor-In-Chief of the PenCraft Book Awards, stated that the awards help struggling authors gain recognition and reach readers. The competition aims to level the playing field by avoiding exclusions based on publisher status or high entry fees, allowing all authors equal opportunity. This inclusive approach has resulted in a broad range of recognized works that reflect current literary and professional discourse.
For business and technology leaders, these runner-up titles represent accessible resources on pressing industry topics. The recognition of works addressing AI, cybersecurity, leadership, and workplace dynamics indicates where literary attention aligns with professional concerns. As organizations continue to navigate digital transformation, economic uncertainty, and evolving workforce expectations, the insights from these award-recognized authors may provide valuable perspectives. The full list of runner-ups is available through the PenCraft Book Awards website at https://pencraftaward.com.
