Yesterday Grovedale author Sue Lawson’s young adult book You Don’t Even Know was not shortlisted in this year’s Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) awards. 

But her story was longlisted in the awards, along with 12 other books.

Ms Lawson said she was very excited by the mention. 

“I’m absolutely thrilled, I was not expecting it at all,” Ms Lawson said. 

Former CBCA judge Marcia Phillips said eight judges spent up to eight months reading the 400 books before long- and shortlisting their favourites. 

“The books are judged on their literary merit,” Ms Phillips said. 

“It is not up to a public vote.”

About 20 librarians, teachers and authors attended the shortlist announcement at Ballarat Books yesterday. 

The CBCA revealed the books across five categories, including Book of the Year (older readers), Book of the Year (younger readers), Book of the Year (early childhood), Picture Book of the Year and Eve Pownall Award for Information Books. 

The winners will be announced in August.