An author from Ocala has received a Florida Book Award for a short collection of poems that she wrote about her life experiences.
Asa Drake was selected as a gold medalist for the 2023 Florida Book Awards for a poetry chapbook published in January 2023 entitled “One Way to Listen.”
Drake’s work was among 30 others that were selected out of over 170 entries submitted for consideration across 11 categories.
In addition to working as an associate editor for the Beloit Poetry Journal, Drake teaches classes on poetry and writing to teens and adults through various organizations.
A Filipina American poet and teaching artist living in Central Florida, Drake has received multiple fellowships and awards for her writing. Drake’s chapbook was published by Gold Line Press.
The Florida Book Awards was established in 2006 to recognize and honor the best literature produced on a yearly basis. The ceremony is coordinated by Florida State University Libraries.
“Florida continues to produce internationally recognized books, and we are thrilled to share that many of the books we love come from our state,” said Keith Simmons, executive director of the Florida Book Awards.
Drake and the other winners will be honored during an awards banquet in Tallahassee on Thursday, April 25.
Drake will next host a free workshop for writers of all levels on April 30 at the Marion County Public Library System’s headquarters, which is located at 2720 E Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala.
For more information on her works, visit Asa Drake online, or follow the author on Instagram or X.