Chyrel J. Jackson Wins 2026 POTY Book Award for "Unsung Canaan Ballads
News related to:Prolific Pulse Press LLC · 2 min read
Chicago-raised poet Chyrel J. Jackson has been honored with the 2026 POTY Book Award for her first solo collection, "Unsung Canaan Ballads." The award, given by the Poetry of the Year (POTY) Book Awards, recognizes outstanding work in poetry and highlights the quality and accomplishment of the year's entries.
Jackson, a member of the creative partnership Sisters Roc’N’Rhyme with her sister, poet Lyris D. Wallace, has been making waves in the literary world. Her first solo collection under the Sisters Roc’N’Rhyme banner, "Unsung Canaan Ballads," gathers poems rooted in the African American literary tradition, a genre that has shaped Jackson's voice since her childhood. The book, published by Prolific Pulse Press LLC, is available in paperback through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Bookshop.org, and Walmart.
Jackson's journey to this prestigious award began with her first literary nomination in 2021, when her poem "Love Unspoken," published in the Heart Beats Anthology, was nominated for a Pushcart Prize. In 2022, she contributed to the #1 bestselling anthology "Not Just Anybody Can Be Dad." Jackson is also a 2025 poet laureate of the Garden of Neuro and a #1-ranked Amazon bestselling author.
The award is a testament to Jackson's dedication to her craft and her ability to bring to light the stories of those who are often overlooked.
"Unsung Canaan Ballads" (ISBN 978-1-962374-68-2) is a collection that delves into the rich tapestry of African American experiences, offering a poignant and powerful voice to those whose stories are often overshadowed. Jackson's work continues to resonate with readers and critics alike, making her a significant voice in contemporary poetry.
Jackson's achievements extend beyond this award. She has been recognized for her contributions to literature and her community. Their work appears in numerous anthologies, literary journals, and international magazines.
Jackson's background is rooted in the South Suburbs of Chicago, where she has been influenced by the literary ancestors she admires. Her first literary nomination came in 2021, when her poem "Love Unspoken" was nominated for a Pushcart Prize. In 2022, she contributed to the #1 bestselling anthology "Not Just Anybody Can Be Dad." Jackson is also a 2025 poet laureate of the Garden of Neuro and a #1-ranked Amazon bestselling author.
Prolific Pulse Press LLC, an independent publisher of poetry and literary works, is proud to have published "Unsung Canaan Ballads." The book is available in paperback from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Bookshop.org, and Walmart.