Children’s Book Council announces Notables 2016

It’s awards season again in book world (but really, it’s a reward every time we read a book, right?). And kicking things off is the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) who on Monday announced their list of Notable Books for the 2016 CBCA Book of the Year Awards. Basically, it’s what they call their long list.

The shortlisted books will be chosen from these later in the year, from which winners will emerge. But for now, let’s celebrate the achievement that is getting onto these lists. According to CBCA’s National Chair, Professor Margot Hillel OAM, more than 400 books were entered this year – with Hillel reporting that the CBCA were “excited about the diversity and quality” as well as impressed with the depth of talent in producing books for children and young people.

Here at AWC, we’re particularly chuffed to say that not one, not two, not four, but THREE of our presenters have had their works added to the Notables list. Creative Writing Stage 1 presenter Nicole Hayes has been recognised in the older readers category for her book, One True Thing. And meanwhile, Writing Picture Books presenter Danny Parker has received the nod for his picture book, Perfect, in both the Early Childhood and Picture Book of the Year categories. Also joining in the fun, Writing Picture Books and Writing Books for Children and Young Adults presenter Judith Rossell was the illustrator for Margaret Wild’s Bogtrotter – listed in the Early Childhood category.

So, what’s the timeline from here? The shortlist from these titles will be announced at the CBCA conference on 20 May, while the winners will be announced in August – tying in with the launch of 2016 Book Week.

Congratulations to everyone on the Notable Books for 2016 list! We’re bookmarking this page for great birthday present ideas.