Clare author Kim Hood shortlisted for YA Book Award 2015

A debut novel by Kim Hood from Kilshanny, County Clare, has been shortlisted for the YA (Young Adult) Book Award 2015. Growing up in British Columbia, Canada, and later studying psychology, history and education, she wandered through a few countries before making the west coast of Ireland her home. Her debut novel for teenagers, Finding A Voice, has universal appeal covering themes of adventure, bullying, school life, friendships, personal change, relationships and prejudice.

The Bookseller, the publishing industry’s weekly magazine, launched the first ever prize for Young Adult books in the UK and Ireland in September 2014. Any Young Adult title written by an author living in the UK or Ireland, and published between 1st January 2014 and 31st December 2014, is eligible for the 2015 prize. It will be judged by a group of teenage readers alongside leading industry experts, including World Book Day director Kirsten Grant. RTE’s radio presenter Rick O’Shea is also one of the judging panel of ten people from the world of writing, journalism and booksellers. The winning author will receive £2,000. The shortlist has just been announced and reflects the wide breadth of YA literature that is available - from dystopia and fantasy to comedy, drama, horror and real-life stories. The winning title will be announced at a ceremony at Foyles Charing Cross Road Bookstore, Central London, on 19th March 2015.