COOL Awards
About the COOL Awards
The COOL Awards are the children's choice book awards voted for by the young people of the Canberra region (Canberra's Own Outstanding List).
Children who live in Canberra are invited to vote for their favourite book in the following categories:
- Picture Story Book,
- Fiction for Younger Readers,
- Fiction for Older Readers,
- and Fiction for Years 7 - 9 (new category).
Goals of the COOL Awards
- Promote enjoyment of reading and develop a critical appreciation of Australian Children's literature and authors;
- Involve young ACT readers in an annual voting process for their favourite Australian books;
- Promote Australian children's literature and authors;
Shortlist
The short list is compiled as a result of suggestions sent in by students. This nomination process occurs in term 1 in schools and libraries throughout Australia.
Students vote for their favourite books in Term 4 each year. Final day for voting is usually Universal Children's Day in October.
Voting
We like to encourage you to have the maximum number of students vote. Students may vote in each of the sections.
- Picture Story Book
- Fiction for Younger Readers
- Fiction for Older Readers
- Fiction for Years 7-9
The short listed books are nominated earlier in the year, however, students may vote for other titles that meet the voting guidelines.
Voting closes on Universal Children's Day in October each year. Winners are announced in November
Voting Guidelines
- Any child from Kindergarten to Year 9 may vote.
- Books eligible for voting (must meet these criteria)
- Australian children's fiction book
- Not a past award winner
3. The book voted for must be the child's free choice.
