1997 Award Prize for Older Readers

Lockie Leonard Legend

by Tim Winton
Pan Macmillan Australia

Lockie is a 13 year old surfer who is grappling with issues around adolescence and relationships. The fabric of his world is shaken when his mother starts behaving very strangely and ends up in hospital. Lockie suddenly finds himself thrust into having to take on the responsibilities of helping with the physical and emotional care of his younger siblings and the household chores. Through Lockie’s eyes, the reader sees the struggles and development of the family as it deals with a parent suffering a clinical depression. The narrative is presented in a light-hearted and engaging way that teenagers will enjoy, without compromising emotional depth or realism.

Commended

Guitar Highway Rose

by Brigid Lowry
Allen & Unwin

An innovatively styled book, the story describes the relationship between two fifteen -year-olds, Rosie and Asher, which blossoms at a time when both of their families are undergoing transitions. The story moves well as we follow Rosie and Asher’s journey, the reader gaining insight into the emotional reactions of them and their families. The issues of adolescence and independence are thoroughly explored from both the teenagers’ and the parents’ perspectives. It is a book which has been well received by teenage readers. Highly commended.

1997 Annual Prize for a Picture Book

Not awarded this year.