As Fast As I Can by Penny Tangey wins the Readings Children's Book Prize 2021

UQP are thrilled to announce that Penny Tangey'sAs Fast As I Canhas won the Readings Children's Book Prize for 2021! Congratulations Penny. Penny has been shortlisted for this award in the past with Stay Well Soon in 2014.

As Fast As I Can was chosen by a panel of Readings children’s book specialists – Angela Crocombe (manager of Readings Kids), Sam Kelly (bookseller at Readings Doncaster and host of Doncaster’s middle fiction book club), Tye Cattanach (bookseller at Readings Kids), and Claire Miller – along with Readings' 2021 guest judge, author Emily Gale.

We were unanimous in our awe for this book. Tangey has crafted a timeless story about finding passions and strength, and listening to our bodies and families. We were inspired by Vivian’s drive. The judges particularly praised how realistic the primary school setting and friendships felt, as well as Tangey’s ability to handle sensitive topics and changes in Vivian’s family. Gale says: ‘Tangey’s depiction of a primary school felt like a real and down-to-earth slice of Australian life, and I loved her deft handling of friendships and family dynamics. Above all, Vivian’s humour, honesty, hopefulness and grit make her a memorable and enduring character.’

To read more about Penny's win and the Readings Children's Book Prize, click here.