The Audio Publishers Association has selected finalists in 26 categories for the Audie Awards. Winners in all categories will be announced June 1 at the Audies Gala at the French Institute Alliance Française in New York City during BookExpo. See the complete list of nominees here.
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An 18-title shortlist in three categories (illustrated books, younger fiction and older fiction) has been announced for Waterstones Children's Book Prize, which, "in a year that has so far been overshadowed by sometimes troubling global events... is particularly abundant in struggle and hope." Category winners receive £2,000 (about $2,495) and then vie for the title of £3,000 (about $3,745) Waterstones Children's Book of the Year, which will be announced March 30 in London at Waterstones Piccadilly.
Children's book buyer Florentyna Martin said that while "reading has always encouraged an element of escapism, this year's shortlists provide a guiding light of optimism in the face of uncertain times... we're delighted to celebrate these inspiring books."
James Daunt, managing director of Waterstones, said: "'These are wonderful books of great power and imagination. They show children's publishing to be as inventive and inspiring as ever, and to have a pointed relevance that seems never more important in the shaping of ideas and attitudes."