QLA: Finalists in the Children’s Book Awards
Congratulations to the five finalists in the Queensland Literary Awards Children’s Book Awards
Leaf-light
Trace Balla (Allen & Unwin)
Judges’ comments:
Leaf-light is a delightful, child-centred celebration of family and community. Balla weaves a tale of springtime in Djaara Country with humour and compassion. The detail of the gentle imagery blends perfectly with simple, effective language choices to create a life-affirming world. Read StoryLinks review.
Leo and Ralph
Peter Carnavas (University of Queensland Press)
Judges’ comments:
Carnavas handles the sensitive topic of belonging with empathy and kindness in his heart-warming novel. When Leo needs a friend, Ralph is there, but only for as long as required. The author captures Leo’s fear of being different with tenderness and grace, and honours the power of imagination. Read StoryLinks review.
Sunshine on Vinegar Street
Karen Comer (Allen & Unwin)
Judges’ comments:
Comer’s story demonstrates a precise understanding of that difficult crossover period in a child’s life – being twelve years old. This heartfelt verse novel utilises a unique lexicon of poetic and everyday language as we follow Freya on her quest for acceptance and friendship. It is tightly plotted, lively and always engaging.
The Impossible Secret of Lillian Velvet
Jaclyn Moriarty, illustrated by Kelly Canby (Allen & Unwin)
Judges’ comments:
This unique fantasy champions the bravery of taking action, with intricate plotting and joyful imagination. Moriarty weaves a tale of surprising secrets and different perspectives as Lillian Velvet is thrust into magical lands and times. The novel reminds us of the limitless possibilities of storytelling. Read StoryLinks review
When You’re a Boy
Blake Nuto (Affirm Press)
Judges’ comments:
This picture book is a gentle and uplifting exploration of the challenges faced, and expectations created, by male stereotypes. Against a backdrop of shifting landscapes, Nuto employs a powerful combination of beautiful, emotive words and images to evoke feelings of acceptance and understanding about the different ways of ‘being’.
Join QLA on Thursday 5 September when for the livestream of the awards ceremony and the announcement of this year’s winners.
