We're excited to share the three books that have been named the 2021 winners of the Readings Children's, Young Adult and New Australian Fiction Prizes.
The Readings New Australian Fiction Prize
Lucky's by Andrew Pippos
We are thrilled to announce the winner of the 2021 Readings Prize for New Australian Fiction is Andrew Pippos for his debut novel Lucky’s.
Our guest judge Elizabeth Tan, described Lucky’s as an ‘exceptional debut work’. She said: ‘Far from being a rags-to-riches migrant success story, the novel is a poignant exploration of mediocrity, envy and failure. There are many threads for the reader to follow, but Pippos introduces each character and timeline with nimble charm. Despite the story’s numerous dark tragedies, there is a pleasing buoyancy and momentum to the prose – much likethe brisk, rhythmic clip of the spinning Wheel of Fortune in the novel’s climax – making Lucky’s an unexpected joy to read.’
Read more about Pippos' win here.
The Readings Young Adult Prize
Future Girl by Asphyxia
We are beyond delighted to announce Future Girl by Asphyxia as the winner of the 2021 Readings Young Adult (YA) Book Prize. An immersive story that is informed by Asphyxia’s experience as a Deaf person, Future Girl tells the story of Piper, a Deaf girl living in near-future Melbourne. The novel format invites the reader into Piper’s vivid art journal, where every page is adorned with full-colour illustrations.
Across the board, Future Girl was the stand-out title for the judges, it offers something completely unique, occupying a space between graphic novel and novel. Its detailed illustrations explore Piper’s experiences as she learns to navigate a hearing world that continually fails to accommodate her. Her coming-of-age story, as she embraces Deaf culture and learns to raise her voice to define her own space in the world, is enlightening and powerful.
Read more about Asphyxia's win, including a statement from guest judge Erin Gough, here.
The Readings Children's Prize
As Fast As I Can by Penny Tangey
We are thrilled to share that the 2021 winner of the Readings Children’s Book Prize is As Fast As I Can by Penny Tangey!
As Fast As I Can is a beautiful story about dreams, resilience and determination. Vivian is a fierce character, whose honesty and, at times, stubbornness drive the plot. When Vivian’s dream is challenged, Tangey demonstrates an exceptional ability to navigate the reader through difficult changes in the family, while also maintaining a light humour. Tangey is a natural and funny storyteller, and her book will be eagerly devoured by independent readers – especially those looking for something sporty – as well as being a fantastic choice for a family read-aloud.
Read more about Tangey's win, including a statement from guest judge Emily Gale, here.
Don't miss our highly recommended shortlisted books
The Readings New Australian Fiction Prize 2021 shortlist
