Warra Warra Wai by Darren Rix and Craig Cormick has been named the winner of the 2025 ACT Book of the Year Award.
Selected from a strong field of 56 eligible nominations, Warra Warra Wai was recognised for its powerful and original storytelling.
The book presents a collaborative First Nations' perspective on the arrival of James Cook and its ongoing impact, offering readers a meaningful and engaging reflection on history and identity.
A Highly Commended citation was awarded to Lebanon Days by Theodore Ell, acknowledged for its thoughtful exploration of personal experience during a time of political and social upheaval.
Minister for Business, Arts and Creative Industries, Michael Pettersson MLA, congratulated the winning authors saying
"The ACT Book of the Year Award is an important recognition and support of, the work of our talented local writers.
"Congratulations to winners Darren Rix and Craig Cormick, highly commended author Theodore Ell, and to our shortlisted authors Andra Putnis and Qin Qin on their outstanding contributions to Canberra's literary landscape.
"Thanks must also go to our independent panel of judges who had the huge task of assessing all 56 entries, which is no mean feat."
The ACT Book of the Year Award recognises excellence in contemporary literary works by ACT authors and includes works of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry that have been published in the previous calendar year.
The ACT Government is proud to support initiatives that celebrate and strengthen the creative life of our city.
