Last night, I attended the Victorian Premiers’ Literary Awards. I had been asked to attend because I reviewed one of the 21 books from the shortlist.
It was a first for me and yes, there was a red carpet. The Plaza Ballroom at the Regent Theatre is a gorgeous place to hold an event like this. And what a pleasure to see authors, librarians, publishers in their little black frocks and suits.
The first announcement was the People’s Choice Award, which went to Anna Krien for her book ‘Into the Woods: The Battle for Tasmania’s Forests’. For anyone who hasn’t read Anna’s book, I recommend it.
The interesting thing for me was the discussions around the table about the shortlisted books as well as books in general. I feel so lucky to have a job that revolves around books, reading and literacy. Being on a table of librarians meant that there was a wealth of knowledge and great sharing of reading choices and ideas for getting books into readers hands.
Of course, I shouldn’t forget the winner! The big prize went to Kim Scott for his book ‘That Deadman Dance’. I’m yet to read the book (of course I will eventually) but there was plenty of discussion about its merit at our table.
I came away from the night with one resounding impression, a happy one, that the book is so not dead!