Unmasked by Turia Pitt and Bryce Corbett is one of the six books shortlisted for this year’s Readings Young Adult Book Prize.

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‘I suppose I’ve been luckier than most in that I’ve had a second chance at life. I’ve been written off for dead, and had an opportunity to claw myself back into existence. And when that happens, you learn not to take a single moment of a single day for granted. Because we get one turn at this thing called life: why wouldn’t you make the most of it?’

– Turia Pitt, Unmasked

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Here’s what the judges said…

‘In September 2011, fitness junkie and mining engineer Turia Pitt competed in an ultramarathon out in the desert of Western Australia’s Kimberley region. During the race, she, along with a handful of other racers, were caught in a grassfire, which burned over 65% of her body and left her in a near-death state. In this young adult edition of her enthralling memoir, Pitt recounts the story of her painful and arduous recovery, her goal-smashing success in Ironman challenges, and offers heartfelt advice on topics such as kindness, gratitude, discovering one’s strengths, overcoming setbacks and finding the people who can lift you up and support you.

Unmasked is a memoir that demonstrates how a unique experience can have a universal message. Pitt recalls her long recovery with refreshing honesty and optimism. Her attitude is infectious – she is direct, down-to-earth, conversational, fun-loving and even goofy. There are chapters interspersed throughout written by her husband, parents and closest friends which also serve as a tender reminder of the importance of support networks. Pitt is a tremendous voice for teens, modelling a type of resilience that is achievable and relatable to readers, while supporting them in turn.’

– Georgia Phelan, chair of the 2019 Readings Young Adult Book Prize judging panel, in consultation with and on behalf of the 2019 judging panel.

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Meet the author…

Turia Pitt has a double degree in Mining Engineering and Science. She worked as a model before landing her dream job with Rio Tinto at their prestigious Argyle Diamond Mine and moving to Kununurra with her partner, Michael. Their lives were turned upside-down when she was trapped by a grassfire in a 100-kilometre ultra-marathon in September 2011, and suffered burns to 65 per cent of her body.

Turia is now studying for her Masters and travels the world giving inspirational speeches. She is a well-recognised humanitarian, dedicating her time to causes she is passionate about. Turia was named the NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year and was a finalist for Young Australian of the Year. She also graced the cover of the Australian Women’s Weekly and is a judge for the Australian Woman of the Future Fund.

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Read more about the Readings Young Adult Book Prize 2019 shortlist here.