2024 Females of Fiction Contest – Finalist and Winner
I am honored to have two of my books chosen as Finalists and Winners in the 2024 Females of Fiction Annual Literary Awards sponsored by Hindi’s Libraries.
The Ghost of Morgan Gulch was selected as a finalist in the Top 3 Chapter/Middle-Grade Book category and in the Top 2 Chapter/Middle-Grade Book Covers. It was ultimately selected as a Best Overall Chapter or Middle-Grade Book category Winner. It was also chosen as the Winner in the Best Interior Illustrations: Chapter/Middle-Grade Book category.
The Adventures of Darby – Darby’s Polka Dots and Pretties was selected as a finalist in the Top 3 Interior Illustrations: Picture Book category.
I am honored to be selected as a Finalist and a Winner. I am ecstatic about these awards.







Reader’s House Magazine – Cover Interview April 2024
Journey into the Heart of Children’s Literature with Vickie L. Gardner
Whispers of Courage
April 4, 2024 – London, United Kingdom: Reader’s House, a prestigious literary magazine renowned for featuring bestselling, award-winning, and exceptional authors, proudly presents Vickie L. Gardner on the cover of its 43rd issue. Not only has Gardner graced the cover, but she has also been honored with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence, a testament to her remarkable contributions to the world of children’s literature.
Gardner’s journey into the literary world is nothing short of inspiring. Hailing from Littleton, Colorado, her passion for storytelling blossomed from her childhood fascination with mystery adventures like Nancy Drew. Drawing from her rich imagination cultivated in her family’s basement, Gardner crafted tales that captivated readers of all ages. Her commitment to storytelling was further refined through her studies at the Institute of Children’s Literature and her active participation in esteemed writers’ circles.
Throughout her illustrious career, Gardner has garnered accolades such as an Honorable Mention from the Writers’ Journal and a second-place finish in a Sportsman’s News contest. However, it is her ability to infuse her personal experiences and family escapades into heartwarming narratives that truly sets her apart.
In her exclusive interview with Reader’s House, Gardner delves into the inspirations behind her beloved characters and shares insights into her upcoming bilingual editions, which aim to bridge cultural gaps and empower young Spanish-speaking readers. Her dedication to instilling values of courage, friendship, and family shines through in her acclaimed series, “The Adventures of Darby,” promising not only thrills but also invaluable life lessons for young readers.
Gardner’s impact extends far beyond the pages of her books. Through her donations to elementary schools and support for literacy organizations like Literacy Connects and Hindi’s Libraries, she ensures that her stories reach and inspire children across the globe.
As Gardner continues to captivate audiences with her imaginative storytelling, readers can eagerly anticipate the expansion of “The Adventures of Darby” series, along with new projects exploring diverse genres such as romance and westerns.
Join us as we celebrate Vickie L. Gardner—a visionary storyteller whose tales resonate with readers of all ages, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of children’s literature.

Author Award 2023 – “Editor’s Choice, Award of Excellence”
…presented by Reader’s House Magazine for my author interview “Empowering Young Minds: Messages of Resilience and Self-Belief in Children’s Literature.” The article is published online and will be in print on January 24, 2024.
Read the article here https://readershouse.co.uk/
Children often face challenges as they are growing up. Stories provide a way to escape from those challenges or find a way to work through them. Read Vickie’s interview about her life and writing experiences that led her to advocate for children and help them face their struggles and find peace within themselves.

2022 Females of Fiction Contest – Finalist in the Chapter Book Category
The Ghost of Morgan Gulch was a finalist in the 2022 Females of Fiction Contest sponsored by Hindi’s Libraries. I am honored to be selected as one of three finalists in the Chapter Books category. I am over the moon about this award and selection. I didn’t go on to be one of the winners but I am proud to have been selected as a finalist.



Hindi’s Libraries is a non-profit organization that collects books in support of their passion for reading and love of literature for children, partnering with more than 700 organizations worldwide spanning all 50 states and internationally.
@Hindislibraries
http://www.facebook.com/hindislibraries
The Ghost of Morgan Gulch by Vickie L. Gardner – Article written for @ReadersMagnet Authors’ Lounge
I was recently invited by @ReadersMagnet Authors’ Lounge to write an article telling the tale about how The Ghost of Morgan Gulch came to be. It was not only a delight to be invited to write the article, but was a delight to tell the tale. I hope you enjoy the article. It was such a pleasure to write it for you. Click on the link and enjoy! The Ghost of Morgan Gulch by Vickie L. Gardner (readersmagnet.club))
A Hunter’s Dream – Second Place Winner in the Sportsman’s News Writing Contest (January 2015)
My son, Chris, has a love for the mountains, camping, and hunting. After his successful bow elk hunt in the fall of 2014, and after reading about the contest in the Sportman’s News, I decided to write about my son’s hunt. Sadly, I didn’t win the grand prize of a phenomenal fishing trip to Canada (I love to fish!), but I had the distinct pleasure of spending time with my son hearing more about his successful and grand adventure, as well as was honored with second prize for which I received a fantastic knife set that my son often uses when he goes hunting or camping.



To read the article, click on the link below, or copy this url into your browser. http://sportsmansnews.com/2015/01/writers-contest-a-hunters-dream/
Enjoy!
Love on the Wild Frontier – Honorable Mention in the Writers’ Journal (January/February 2011)
I am a sucker for writing about romance, and love entering contests. One of my first short story pieces ‘Love on the Wild Frontier’ brought my love for the old west together with the new romance of a young woman and a handsome town sheriff. The story won Honorable Mention by the Writers’ Journal. I continue to refine my writing and enter contests as often as I can.

