2000 Award Prize for Older Readers

Dreamcatcher

by Jen McVeity
Lothian Books

Set in a context of contemporary environmental themes, Dreamcatcher is an exploration of the issues faced by a teenage girl whose family is spread over two households. It deals with the fears Tess and her half-sister, Laura, have of failing parental expectations. It also deals with the competing loyalties which arise for Tess from the positive aspects of belonging to both households. Her parents are not idealised but, through Tess' eyes, all three are portrayed as having strengths and weaknesses. The tricky relationship between mother and stepmother is negotiated in a positive and yet realistic manner. Laura's difficulties in sharing Tess with another household are explored realistically and sensitively. The challenges of Tess' changing needs and the impact of these on residency arrangements are another theme of the book.

Commended

Winning Back Dad

by Ian Bone (author) & Craig Smith (illustrator)
Walker Books

In a warm and funny Australian story, Kel's dad loses his job and his identity as a truck driving "King of the Road". While Kel's mother returns to work, his father has to cope with the transition to becoming the primary carer for Kel and his baby sister. This transition is not smooth by any means and the final resolution is unexpected and funny. This is a book that challenges role stereotypes and which children will enjoy.

Angels Passing By

by Judith Clarke
Penguin Books (Puffin)

Tom's parents are an embarrassment and he can't understand why his mother never stands up for herself. The story explores Tom's realisation that he has the same trouble as his mother. As Tom comes to understand the complexity of issues faced by his parents he also comes to understand their behaviour and, consequently, his own.

2000 Annual Prize for a Picture Book

Not awarded this year.