The Readings Young Adult Prize 2024 shortlist
We are proud to announce the six shortlisted titles for The Readings Young Adult Prize 2024! The Readings Young Adult Prize is presented for the best new contribution to Australian youth literature from an emerging author.
Our staff judges for the 2024 prize are Alicia Guiney (chair of judges, Readings Kids), Julia Jackson (Readings Carlton), Kate McIntosh (Readings Emporium) and Vasilia Nerouppos (Readings Doncaster).
You can also view our recently announced Children's Prize shortlist here!
A Way Home by Emily Brewin
Grace is homeless and living under a bridge in inner-city Melbourne, focused only on surviving each day. When she discovers a piano in the City Library, she is reminded of her pianist mum, who has been placed in a mental health facility. The discovery also connects her with a kind librarian and a homeless boy. This is a heartwarming and hopeful story for ages 12+.
Set in the Melbourne we all know and love, this perfect specimen of a YA novel is polished, relevant, moving and real, tackling issues such as homelessness and loss with pure grace. — Kate McIntosh
Blind Spot by Robyn Dennison
When Dale stumbles upon a drunk girl being undressed by guys at a party, he runs away. He feels guilty, but doesn’t know how to make things right. He can’t talk to his dad, his mum has left, and his best friend wouldn’t understand. Then Dale’s cousin moves in and gives him a different perspective. Dale’s gradual awakening from bystander to action-taker is sensitively explored and suitable for ages 14+.
Blind Spot is a compelling debut from a remarkable new voice. This book doesn’t flinch from the myriad dilemmas, actions and consequences confronted by the characters, but Robyn Dennison’s nuanced and empathetic approach marks her as a writer to watch! — Julia Jackson
Birdy by Sharon Kernot
Maddy doesn’t speak after ‘the incident’. She, her mum and younger brother have moved to a small country town for the summer. Maddy befriends their older next-door neighbour, Alice, whose daughter Birdy disappeared 45 years ago. Slowly, listening to Alice and Levi, a girl her age in town, Maddy heals and may even solve the mystery of what happened to Birdy. A stunning verse novel for ages 12+.
A beautiful surprise, this sparse, poetic story about a teenage girl’s choices after trauma will resonate, charm and impress everyone who picks it up. It’s amazing how such a short novel can cover so much and do it so well! — Kate McIntosh
The Spider and Her Demons by sydney khoo
Zhi is half-human, half-spider – and 100% angst-ridden teenage girl. Hiding her strange body is hard and then there’s her difficult relationship with her guardian aunt. When the most popular girl in school spots Zhi accidentally killing someone, things become even trickier. This fun horror story is skilfully woven with the challenges of second-generation immigrants, body dysmorphia and high school. For ages 14+.
This delightfully weird story toes the line between paranormal fantasy and horror, without ever losing sight of the themes of family, identity and culture that form its core. Zhi’s journey of self-discovery will resonate with readers, even though she’s a spider monster. — Alicia Guiney
We Didn't Think It Through by Gary Lonesborough
When Jamie and his mates are harassed once again by their racist classmate, they retaliate by taking his car for a joyride. Events escalate quickly, the police chase, and Jamie is sent to juvenile detention. Finding his way out of the youth justice system and back to his family is a tough journey, but one that is written so empathetically that readers can’t help but want Jamie to succeed. For ages 14+.
In this powerful and moving novel, Gary Lonesborough deftly explores the problem of over-incarceration of First Nations youth. Prepare to experience a rollercoaster of emotions. This is a must-read for all Australian teens (and adults too). — Alicia Guiney
A Curse of Salt by Sarah Street
When Ria Lucroy joins a crew of bloodthirsty pirates to ensure her father’s safety, she is thrust into the world of the infamous pirate captain known as the Heartless King. She discovers there’s more to him than the legends, and he’s burdened by an ancient curse. Featuring action-packed adventure at sea and a page-turning romance, this evocative fantasy will be adored by ages 14+.
This fast-paced fairytale retelling is overflowing with adventure, old magic and endearing characters. With an enemies-to-lovers romance full of tension and swoon-worthy moments, it’s the perfect read for romantasy fans. Set your sails for a gripping and heartfelt tale on the high seas. — Vasilia Nerouppos
For a limited time we are pleased to offer all six books on the 2024 shortlist in a specially priced pack! You can buy this pack in our shops or online for the special price of $99.99 (was $124.94).
