The 2024 ACT Book of the Year Award: Chris Hammer’s Victory
Local crime writer Chris Hammer has once again proven his literary prowess by clinching the prestigious 2024 ACT Book of the Year Award with his gripping crime thriller, The Seven.
Chris Hammer’s Success Story
Chris Hammer will be bestowed with a cash prize of $10,000 for emerging as the author of the 2024 ACT Book of the Year. This is not the first time that Chris has been recognized for his exceptional writing skills. In 2011, his non-fiction book, The River, was honored with the ACT Book of the Year title.
2024 ACT Book of the Year Finalists
The ACT Book of the Year Award serves as a platform to celebrate the excellence of local authors and their literary works. This year’s judging panel not only crowned Chris Hammer as the winner but also acknowledged two highly commended and three shortlisted works across various genres including crime fiction, poetry, short stories, non-fiction, and children’s historic fiction.
Highly Commended
- Untethered by Ayesha Inoon
- The Measure of Sorrow: Stories by J. Ashley-Smith
Shortlisted
- Sleeplessness by Paul Hetherington
- Tiwi Story: Turning history downside up by Mavis Kerinaiua and Laura Rademaker
- The Great Gallipoli Escape by Jackie French
All these remarkable works can be purchased at local bookstores or borrowed from ACT Libraries.
Expert Panel Verdict on The Seven
The judging panel comprised of renowned experts including Helen Ennis, T.R. Napper, and Barrina South. They faced a daunting task in selecting the ultimate winner amidst Canberra’s pool of exceptional writers. Their assessment of The Seven highlighted Chris Hammer’s masterful command of the crime genre and his ability to craft a riveting narrative filled with suspense and intrigue, immersing readers in a world of uncertainty and anticipation.
The panel praised Hammer for his skillful depiction of a quintessential Australian story, rich with compelling characters who navigate their lives amidst the backdrop of a fictional country town dominated by landed aristocracy. The narrative’s unpredictable twists and turns keep readers engrossed until the final resolution, with the town itself serving as a powerful metaphor enhancing the novel’s depth and impact.
For more information on the ACT Book of the Year Award and other arts-related updates, visit the artsACT website.
Stay updated on ACT news and events by subscribing to our email newsletter:
Conclusion
Chris Hammer’s victory in the 2024 ACT Book of the Year Award is a testament to his exceptional talent and storytelling prowess. His novel, The Seven, stands out as a brilliant example of Australian crime fiction, captivating readers with its gripping narrative and rich character development. As Canberra continues to nurture and celebrate local literary talent, Chris Hammer’s success serves as an inspiration to aspiring writers and a reminder of the power of storytelling in shaping our cultural landscape.
FAQ
Where can I purchase the award-winning books?
All the award-winning and shortlisted books are available for purchase at local bookstores in Canberra.
Can I borrow these books from ACT Libraries?
Yes, you can borrow these books from ACT Libraries to enjoy these literary works at your convenience.