Tellwell’s own Ben St. James has been named a finalist in the 2026 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards.
Here at Tellwell, Ben St. James spends his days helping authors get their books in front of the right readers. He’s one of our book-marketing consultants. This fall, the tables turned and Ben’s own book got some attention of its own.
Ben’s children’s book, Cowboy Cooper and the Ghost Town, has been named a finalist in the 2026 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards. Judging took place in September, and we couldn’t be prouder to share the news.
The Moonbeam recognition is especially meaningful because Cowboy Cooper hasn’t followed a typical path. It started as a children’s book, and Ben has kept building on it in other formats.
“What started as a children’s book has continued to grow,” Ben says, “and I’ve been able to explore the story in other formats as well.”
Those formats have done well too. Here’s what Cowboy Cooper and the Ghost Town has earned so far:
- Finalist, 2026 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards
- First Place, Royal Dragonfly Book Competition
- Semi-finalist, Chanticleer Book Awards
- Official Selection at numerous film festivals in 2026 for the screenplay adaptation, including the California International Children’s Film Festival, where it was named a finalist
“It’s been really interesting to watch this story find its way into different creative spaces,” Ben says, “and reach audiences in ways I didn’t originally expect.”
When Ben talks with Tellwell authors about award submissions, festival entries, and reaching new audiences, he’s speaking from experience. Cowboy Cooper shows that a book’s life doesn’t end on launch day. With persistence and some creativity, one story can keep finding new readers, new formats, and new recognition for years.
“I’m grateful to everyone who has supported Cowboy Cooper and the Ghost Town,” Ben says, “and to the judges and festivals that have recognized the story along the way.”
Congratulations, Ben, from all of us at Tellwell!
