1991 Award Prize for Older Readers

Change the Locks

by Simon French
Scholastic

This book tells the story of Steven, who lives with his single mother and baby brother in a New South Wales country town. At twelve years of age, Steven begins to have fragmented and disturbing memories of his early childhood years in Sydney. At first he cannot get any answers from his mother, who is still trying to heal old wounds of her own. Eventually, however, she helps him to unravel the mystery of his memories and understands the fear that accompanies them. As well as showing the improving relationship between Steven and his mother, this book also illustrates the healing power of friendships that Steven and his mother have with others outside their family.

Commended

Sooner or Later

by Sophie Masson
University of Queensland Press

Scilla goes to live with her father and grandmother during her grandmother’s last months of terminal cancer. She gains understanding of her father and strength from her Nanna.

The Sugar Gum Tree

by Patricia Wrightson
Puffin

Penny and Sarah, normally the best of friends, have a fight when building a cubby house. Their parents become involved, but the little girls resolve the difficulties themselves, as children often do.