We're excited to share the three books that have been named the 2019 winners of the Readings Children's, Young Adult and New Australian Fiction Prizes.
The Readings New Australian Fiction Prize
The Glad Shout by Alice Robinson
We are delighted to announce that the winner of this year’s Readings Prize for New Australian Fiction is Alice Robinson, for her novel, The Glad Shout.
In the very near and very imaginable future, a cataclysmic storm has sent floodwaters through Melbourne, and we meet Isobel, Shaun, and their toddler Matilda, as they seek refuge in a stadium where help and security are promised. Quickly, matters deteriorate, and their safety becomes compromised. In alternating chapters, we learn about the Isobel of the past, and the circumstances that have led her to the present.
Read more about our judges' thoughts on The Glad Shout here.
The Readings Young Adult Prize
Stone Girl by Eleni Hale
Now in its third year, the Readings Young Adult Book Prize was created to recognise and celebrate new voices in Australian Young Adult literature. This year's winner is Stone Girl by Eleni Hale, which follows Sophie, a vulnerable yet resilient girl who becomes a ward of the state following the sudden death of her mother. As she falls into a system meant to help, Sophie quickly realises that the foster system is where Australia’s kids fall through the cracks. This is earth-shattering and essential reading.
Read more about Hale's win and the Readings Young Adult Prize here.
The Readings Children's Prize
The Peacock Detectives by Carly Nugent
In April we revealed that the winner of this year’s Readings Children’s Book Prize is The Peacock Detectives by Carly Nugent!
Carly Nugent’s quirky mystery about family and friendship is a fitting winner. This heartfelt depiction of family relationships and sophisticated exploration of mental health never talks down to its audience and is perfectly suited to curious, thoughtful readers and budding writers aged 9+.
Read more about Nugent's win here.
Don't miss our highly recommended shortlisted books!
The Readings New Australian Fiction Prize 2019 shortlist
