What a week it has been! I’m shocked – and, of course, thrilled – to reveal THE INTERN won the 2015 Gold Inky Award, which recognises high-quality young adult literature, with the longlist and shortlist selected by young adults, and the winners voted for online by the teen readers of InsideaDog.com.au.
Winning the Gold Inky Award is easily the greatest, most unexpected moment of my writing career so far. I consider it a privilege to write for – and about – young adults, so to win the Gold Inky Award and be recognised by passionate readers of YA literature is an honour.
I couldn’t believe it when I found out the news, and I still can’t believe it. Like I said in my acceptance speech, it was a dream come true to be included on the shortlist with such incredible authors: Justine Larbalestier, Melissa Keil, Alice Pung and Claire Zorn. I still can’t believe I’m allowed to call such talented writers my colleagues, as I’m inspired by their creativity, passion and work ethic every day.
To the judges, thank you for taking the process so seriously and for being such positive role models. You will all be my bosses one day and I’m OK with that. To the Inky Awards and Inside A Dog, thanks for your support and for giving the younger readers and future writers of Australia a platform to share their voice and opinions.
And, for the readers of THE INTERN, and everyone who voted, thank you for giving a new voice a chance. It means the world that my story connects with the very audience I write for, so here’s to many more adventures together!
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