Jason Offutt, a senior instructor of mass media at Northwest Missouri State University, has been recognized by several publishing organizations for his first horror fiction book.

Offutt published his 16th book, “The Girl in the Corn,” in 2022. The book features a young man who must work alongside a fairy to distinguish good from evil and save the world.

Since its publication, the book has earned the Independent Book Publisher Association Benjamin Franklin Gold Award in 2022 and 2023. It also was a finalist for Killer Nashville’s Silver Falchion Award and is now nominated for the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences’ Voice Arts Award.

“Being recognized by peers – that really does mean a lot,” Offutt said. “I just want people to enjoy what I write.”

The Benjamin Franklin Gold Award recognizes excellence and innovation in independent publishing. Offutt’s book received the award last year for its audiobook version, and it received the award this year for writing.

The Silver Falchion Award honors the best books of the previous calendar year, recognizing “The Girl in the Corn” as one of the best supernatural books of 2022.

Additionally, the book has been nominated for best voiceover in the category of thriller audiobook narration by SOVAS. The winners will be announced at the Voice Arts Awards Dec. 10 in Beverly Hills, California.

Offutt wrote his first book and joined the Northwest faculty in 2005. As an instructor, he recognizes the impact his success in writing may have on his students.

“I like helping students be able to hopefully achieve their dreams,” Offutt said. “If I can be the example, I’ve done my job.”