A moving tale about bodily autonomy has won the 2024 State Library of Queensland Young Writers Award.
Ash Shirvington drew on his experiences and identity as a trans man to craft Birdbone – a short story praised by judges as “an impressive exploration of adolescent life and longing … with a striking conclusion.” Ash receives a $2,000 prize, publication in the prestigious literary magazine Kill Your Darlings, and a Queensland Writers Centre membership.
A creative writing student at Griffith University, Ash says he was excited to enter the Award – which has helped launch Queensland’s brightest writing talent for over 25 years – but never expected to win. Ash was a runner-up in the 2023 Young Writers Award for his story, Feed it to the dog.
“Birdbone is a story about biology and bodily autonomy, focusing on the tensions between 2 children learning about how they view the world – and how the world views them,” said Ash Shirvington. “I found out about the competition last year and I wanted to try to be a part of it – although I never expected to place.”
Three finalists were also awarded $500 and Queensland Writers Centre membership:
- Salt by Sarah Allan-Park
- Goodie by AJ Pope
- Worth It by Quinn Stennett
“This year’s entries demonstrate the promise and flair of our newest crop of emerging writers,” said author Siang Lu, Young Writers Award Judging Panel Chair.
“The judges were impressed by the range of literary styles and techniques at play in these stories, which nonetheless had key elements of craft in common: namely narrative concision, strength of voice, compelling characters and, importantly, their capacity to surprise and delight,” said Lu.
The Young Writers Award has been celebrating young Queensland writers since 1997, launching some of our state’s best writers, including Benjamin Law, Tara June Winch, Shastra Deo, Rebecca Jessen and Lech Blaine.
“The impressive diversity of talent once again defines this year’s Young Writers Award entries,” said State Librarian and CEO Vicki McDonald AM. “State Library is proud to support the next generation of writers to help ensure a thriving literary community in Queensland.
“The Young Writers Award is a terrific opportunity for emerging writers to showcase works of fiction, make long-lasting industry connections, and achieve publication,” said McDonald.
For more information about the State Library of Queensland Young Writers Award, visit: www.slq.qld.gov.au for details.
Image: Ash Shirvington (supplied)