I’ve been caught out with the Children’s Book Council of Australia Shortlist for 2011 being released in the holidays!

The details can be viewed at: http://cbca.org.au/Shortlist_2011.htm

In the Older reader category, it seems to be an interesting mix of mainly recognised authors and a new author, Fiona Woods – whose book has, in fact, been commended by one of the other nominees, Cath Crowley!

A stand out in the Picture Book category would have to be ‘Mirror’ by Jeannie Baker – but then who knows the attractions of the other worthy nominees?

I came across an interesting insight into the power of the CBCA awards tonight, when reading a post from James Roy, who has formerly been a CBCA nominee:

…when you’re just getting established (as I was when Captain Mack was shortlisted for the CBCA in 2000) it does put you on the map.

Congratulations to those nominated. (Have a look at the notables for 2011, who just missed out!) Get ready for the debates. Read as many as you can, and in your mind, cast your personal vote for the best of 2011. And, keep those names in mind as authors, from both the shortlist and the notables, grow and develop in the future!

Which books get your vote?