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Graduate's Debut Novel Shortlisted for Book Prize
This article is 4 months old. It is presented here as part of an historical archive and as such, the information contained within it may no longer be accurate or up to date. Readers are advised to check with the University before acting upon the information contained herein.
Author Lucy Christopher, who is a Creative Writing graduate from Bath Spa University, has been shortlisted for a children's book prize with her first novel, 'Stolen'.
She is included in a shortlist of seven for the Branford Boase Award 2010, set up to encourage new writers and given annually to the author of an outstanding debut novel for children.
Lucy Christopher graduated from Bath Spa University with a Master's degree in Creative Writing in 2004. She is currently undertaking a PhD at the University and wrote 'Stolen' as part of those studies.
Lucy said: "I'm absolutely thrilled to be on the shortlist for this year's Branford Boase Award. I think its a really strong list, showcasing some really thoughtful and provoking literature for young people. To have my book there amongst such great texts is fantastic."
'Stolen' is set in Australia, where Lucy grew up herself. It is told in a letter by 16-year-old Gemma to her captor after she has been kidnapped while on holiday with her parents. The kidnapper, Ty, takes her to a remote and barren wilderness in the Australian outback. Here, with no escape possible, Gemma must deal with her predicament or die.
For her PhD at Bath Spa University Lucy Christopher is exploring how Australian literature represents wild places, particularly in its writing for young adults. She is also working part-time as a lecturer in Creative Writing at Bath Spa.
Julia Green, Programme Leader for the MA Writing for Young People at the University, said: "Lucy is an extremely talented writer with a strong individual voice. I am delighted she has been shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award with her exceptional first novel."
The winner of the Branford Boase Award, who receives a 1,000 pound prize, will be announced on 14 July.
Press Release Issued 25 May 2010 by School of Humanities and Cultural Industries.
