First Nations YA to look out for

A debut young adult title by Lystra Rose, a descendant of the Guugu Yimithirr, Birri Gubba, Erub and Scottish nations, took out the prestigious $25,000 Indigenous writing prize in the Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards. The Upwelling (Lothian) is the outcome of Rose’s research over many years and of her time as a participant of the black&write program, which partners Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander editor and writers to develop new work.

‘Hachette is honoured to partner with black&write! and couldn’t be more excited about the inspiring and innovative work, like The Upwelling, coming through the program,’ said Hachette head of children’s publishing Jeanmarie Morosin, who praised Rose for ‘her incredible talent and the absolute dedication she showed to all aspects of this book’.

Grace Lucas-Pennington, a senior editor at black&write!, said the program was ‘thrilled to be part of the journey for this incredible book’.

‘Lystra Rose has spent years researching and talking to First Nations knowledge holders to incorporate First Nations culture and language into an electrifying and gutsy story that will inspire, and educate, young people for generations to come. Congratulations Lystra, this feels like just the beginning!’

While readers await Rose’s next offering, Magabala, which has also been a past partner with the black&write! program has a new offering in YA to look out for: Tracks of the Missing by Carl Merrison & Hakea Hustler (Magabala Books) is ‘a gripping First Nations thriller’, according to Frances Atkinson writing in the Age newspaper.

Also in First Nations YA is Borderlands by Graham Akhurst (UWA Press) is ‘a blending of mythic, gothic horror, with a strong message of conservation and connection to land’ according to Bold Type Agency.

Category: Think Australian feature