CBCA Shadow Judging

The Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Sun Project: Shadow Judging Book of the Year program invites young voices from across Australia to join the conversation about the books shortlisted for the  CBCA Book of the Year Awards. This year we had 25 students sign up to participate. This involves reading the 6 books shortlisted in the Older Readers category, meeting to discuss these books and ultimately choosing our own winner to submit to the CBCA.

Students have met each week to passionately discuss these books and many have observed that it has been a great opportunity to read a variety of books that they might not have otherwise thought to try. 

On Monday 29th July, our UHS Shadow Judging group hosted a very special guest, Karen Comer, author of CBCA shortlisted book ‘Grace Notes’. This was a wonderful opportunity to hear from someone who has made a career in writing, editing and publishing, and to discuss her book which the group had read, as well as learn more about her writing process and get some tips for their own writing practice. The group asked many insightful questions, and Karen reflected afterwards that it was inspiring to meet with so many thoughtful, passionate young people.

At the time of publication, our shadow judging group has now cast their vote for Book of the Year and are now eagerly awaiting the announcements of the winners which will take place during Book Week (17-23 August).

Steph Ward - Head of Library & Research