The 2021 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards shortlists capture the full diversity and range of Australia’s vibrant literary sector.
The shortlists have been announced today by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts Paul Fletcher.
The Awards acknowledge the significant contribution literature, history and poetry have in connecting us to Australian voices and our story as a nation.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said this year’s shortlists celebrated Australia’s talented literary sector in a year when so many Australians turned to reading.
“Australia’s storytellers and historians have provided a place for reflection as we have faced the ongoing challenges of the pandemic,” the Prime Minister said.
“That’s the power of our literature and the stories being told. Congratulations to everyone shortlisted, and thank you to the judges.”
Minister Fletcher said the 2021 shortlists highlight the exceptional talent of Australian writers.
“This year’s shortlists have captured diverse voices that make up Australia’s talented literary community,” Minister Fletcher said.
“Our writers, poets, historians and illustrators have continued to produce works of literary excellence, making the judging for this year’s shortlist incredibly difficult. We received more than 470 entries, and our judges had the difficult task of selecting 30 books.
“Congratulations to the shortlisted authors and thank you to the judges for their expertise and commitment.”
Winners of the 2021 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards will be announced in December.
