Both of these authors are enjoying new success writing for a younger age group having published several novels for adults and teens. One of them comes from a writing family and has followed in her mother’s footsteps, while the other spent many years working as a nurse before turning to her favourite childhood past-time of making up magical stories.

Meet Karen Foxlee and Allison Rushby.

In these interviews, you’ll find out what sparked the idea in Karen Foxlee’s mind for Ophelia and the Marvellous Boy and learn who really instructed Allison Rushby to write How To Save The Universe In 10 Easy Steps.

You can find our interview with Karen Foxlee

You can find our interview with Allison Rushby

All 6 books on the shortlist are available to purchase in a special pack for a discounted price. You can find the pack here.

Last year’s winner was Julie Hunt with Song For A Scarlet Runner.

This is the second year of the Readings Children’s Book Prize, which was launched to find the best books for children aged 5-12 by new Australian authors. More details can be found here.