2025 AWARDS | nzbooklovers

NZ BOOKLOVERS AWARDS 2025
NZ Booklovers Awards 2025 Shortlist

NZ Booklovers Award for Best Adult Fiction Book 2025

Sponsored by Duckling Publishing

The Dream Factory by Steph Matuku, illustrated by Zak Ātea (Huia Publishers)
Elephant Park by Melanie Koster, illustrated by Jenny Cooper (Scholastic NZ)
Hineraukatauri me Te Ara Pūoro by Elizabeth Gray, illustrated by Rehua Wilson (Huia Publishers)
Little Axel’s Axolotl by Juliette MacIver, Illustrated by Christopher Nielsen (Walker Books)
The Squeakling by Kristin Kelly, illustrated by Ronja Schiller (Scholastic NZ)
The Very Best Words by Erin Munro, Illustrated by Sarah Trolle (Moa Press)

The Best Adult Fiction Book Award is judged by author, reviewer and judge of the Ngaio Marsh Awards Stephanie Jones, reviewer and literary editor Marcus Hobson, and NZ Booklovers Director and author Karen McMillan.
The Best Lifestyle Book Award is judged by journalist and author Andrea Molloy, Whitireia publishing programme graduate, researcher and Verb Wellington volunteer Anne Kerslake Hendricks, and publisher, home renovator and foodie Iain McKenzie.

The Young Adult, Best Junior Fiction Book and Children’s Picture Book Awards are judged by creative writing teacher, assessor, mentor and reviewer Paddy Richardson, writer and former editor Heidi North, early childhood kaiako and journalist Rebekah Lyell, high school teacher, author, musician, and reviewer Chris Reed, and primary school teacher, journalist and former book editor Stacey Anyan.

Winners will be announced on 20 March 2025 - each winner will receive $500.

Judges’ comments:

ADULT FICTION

Better Left Dead by Catherine Lea: ‘In the second instalment in Catherine Lea’s detective series, DI Nyree Bradshaw returns to investigate the killings of two down-on-their-luck women found in a hoarder’s house in rural Northland. As a crime procedural it ticks all the boxes, and Lea sympathetically yet frankly examines what the hunt for justice could cost Nyree, a professional who never clocks out but now finds her commitment to her work at odds with her new responsibility to her incarcerated son’s young daughter. Better Left Dead is a major step up, in prose, pacing, and plotting, from Lea’s promising debut, and a harbinger of even greater dark deeds to come.’

The Call by Gavin Strawhan: ‘In this barnstorming page-turner of a debut, Gavin Strawhan stares directly into the underbelly – or should it be the gaping maw? – of New Zealand organised crime in the 501 era. This year’s shortlist happens to emphasise the stories, lives, and fates of women, and The Call is squarely in the centre of the zeitgeist, as Honey, a cop grappling with family demons, is drawn into the orbit of Kloe, an informant with kids to protect and real-life devils on her heels. Gangs, drugs, money laundering, and the law – Strawhan mixes these combustible ingredients into a storyline about as contemporary and relevant as it gets while resisting predictability at every turn. A top-class Kiwi crime novel. (Note to readers: This is a crime novel which includes scenes of graphic violence.)

A House Built on Sand by Tina Shaw: ‘Tina Shaw has populated this novel with beautifully created characters. Maxine has been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, and her daughter Rose has panic attacks about enclosed spaces. Their worlds reunite and collide when they come to stay at the old family bach in Kutarere. The character of Maxine really captures what it is like to be in the midst of early dementia. Sudden flashes of memory and eloquence seem to come from nowhere, only to be followed by the frustration of not being able to find the simplest of words or memories. There is something just outside of her recall. It is important, but she cannot quite grasp it. Something important about her family, something they need to know. The clever blurring of stories and timelines gradually reveals a long-hidden secret that turns everything upside down.’

The Secrets of the Little Greek Taverna by Erin Palmisano: ‘Every novel needs a little bit of magic to make it a winner. This one comes with a smattering of magical realism alongside a love story, a tale of friendships and a healthy portion of Greek food. Who could resist such a delicious mixture? At least one of the judges is planning a trip to Greece later this year on the strength of this novel. This novel celebrates life, and reminds us of the wonder of living, as the central characters overcome loss in many forms to find life can be not just okay again, but wonderfully glorious.’

The Space Between by Lauren Keenan: In some ways Lauren Keenan (Te Ātiawa ki Taranaki) was uniquely qualified to produce this gripping historical novel. A writer in many formats, including creative non-fiction, she has a Master of Arts in Māori History and drew on (among many other resources) her father Dr Danny Keenan’s deep expertise in Taranaki history to tell the story of two women, settler Frances and local Matāria, whose lives become intertwined in surprising ways at the brink of the First Taranaki War in 1860. The excellence of Keenan’s writing is such, the judges agreed, that it is hard to believe this is her first novel, and she skilfully explores themes of love, resilience, and the search for belonging as she depicts people learning to straddle two cultures and shake off the classism – and worse – of Victorian England.’

The War Photographers by SL Beaumont: ‘A page-turning read that brings together two remarkable stories, with two memorable characters centre-stage. The work done by men and women at Bletchley Park is fascinating, and the author has done a superb job recreating the clandestine work they did, which, from many accounts, probably cut the war in Europe by at least two years. The other remarkable story is the fall of the Berlin Wall, and in this section of the novel, we get an insider’s front-row seat to this extraordinary historic event. Beaumont integrates her research into the narrative seamlessly, and a lot of scenes of historical import carry real emotional weight.’

Weeping Angels by Riley Chance: ‘A gripping thriller that shines a light on the tough topic of family violence, but in such an engaging way you can’t stop turning the pages, and you end up cheering on the resourceful protagonists. There is a clever ripped-from-the-headlines quality to the storytelling. Weeping Angels is original and thought provoking and the characters feel like old friends by the books end. All the judges were captivated by this exceptional novel.’

Woman, Missing by Sherryl Clark: ‘Lou Alcott used to be in the police force, but was forced to resign having ‘overreacted’ when dealing with a man accused of domestic violence. Now she has a new job as a private investigator. She is trying to help at-risk women and quickly finds herself embroiled in two cases at once. Lou is a perfectly written, strong female lead with a rather edgy problem. Her grandfather is Melbourne’s biggest crime boss, while her father has a senior position in the police force. These two worlds have always been on a collision course, but Lou has always been closer to her grandfather. When another criminal with a grudge against her grandfather is released from prison, Lou finds herself threatened from more than one direction. One of the women she is trying to keep safe has vanished. How risky could it be to put herself out there as bait? All our judges found Sherryl Clark’s book impossible to put down. A compelling read from start to finish.’

LIFESTYLE
101 Ways to Find Calm by Rebekah Ballagh: ‘Rebekah’s latest book is packed with simple, science-backed tools for everyday resilience. Each of the tools is accessible and brief; you can literally flip open to any page and experiment. Better yet, many of the tools are interchangeable, working across a range of emotions. The real challenge, as Rebekah suggests, is incorporating at least one tool into each and every day! And if somatic therapies and polyvagal exercises are new to you, there’s a useful glossary, too. Rebekah’s trademark illustrations clearly show each activity with a short description, followed by simple step-by-step instructions. Engaging to read as it is informative. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to better understand and process their emotions.’

Edith Collier by Jill Trevelyan, Jennifer Taylor and Greg Donson: ‘The beautiful images and thought-provoking commentaries in this book cover the life and works of artist Edith Collier, now recognised as one of New Zealand’s early modernist painters. Insights into the evolution of Collier’s style take into account broader social and political influences, as well as her friendships and professional connections with other artists of that era. Family obligations, and Edith’s waning confidence, eventually constrained her productivity. However, she left a considerable body of work that her descendants – together with the beautifully restored Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery (Whanganui) – now generously share with the public. Many of these works feature in the book.’

Kai Feast by Christall Lowe: ‘A remarkable celebration of food, family and connection. Christall invites readers into the heart of her kitchen, sharing delicious recipes and stories of her whānau. Inspired by a pepeha, journeying from the mountains to the sea, Kai Feast reflects the natural rhythms of te āo Māori. The recipes are accessible, blending local ingredients with classic and modern flavours. Practical tips for cooking for a crowd, guidance on foraging and using native herbs make this book both inspiring and useful. Featuring Christall’s own stunning photography, the visual beauty perfectly complements the rich storytelling. More than a cookbook, Kai Feast is a taonga that honours the legacy of whānau, manaakitanga (hospitality) and the joy of sharing kai – an essential addition to every kitchen!’

The Laden Table by Ashia Ismail-Singer: ‘Ashia Ismail-Singer shares both simple and more elaborate recipes influenced by the cuisines of many different lands: “a fusion of flavours and cultures”. This is a substantial and enticing book, full of inspiration for delicious food – and drinks – to enjoy with friends and family. The recipes feature fresh, flavourful ingredients and plenty of spices. Who could resist baklava cheesecake with orange blossom syrup or a fabulous lamb biryani adorned with crunchy filo rosettes, accompanied by a sweet or salty lassi? Ashia offers ideas for breakfasts, picnics, festive feasts and sharing plates, as well as recipes and menus for many other occasions too. The photos are gorgeous and it’s easy to imagine the wonderful aroma wafting from each dish.’

Myths & Legends of the Ancient Pākehā by Glenn Colquhoun: ‘A fascinating and original way to explore Pākehā history through sea shanties, hymns, ballads and other poems, with thoughtful illustrations by Nigel Brown. The judges were captivated by the originality of the book, and the way it brought early settlers through to individuals in modern times to life on the page. There is a richness to this volume that adds a layer of emotional connection to the eclectic material. It’s a treasure trove to return to again and again.’

Play Wild: Nature Craft Projects for Tamariki by Rachel Clare: ‘Play Wild is packed full of fun, hands-on projects using materials found in nature! This inspiring guide encourages tamariki to connect with the natural world through creativity and exploration. From twig crowns and Matariki ice lanterns to wreaths and mini waka, the engaging activities are perfect for families, educators and young adventurers – there’s something for everyone. With minimal resources and flexible timeframes, whether you have 10 minutes or two hours, Play Wild makes it easy to spark imagination and foster a connection to nature. Simple, clear instructions ensure success for all ages, while fascinating facts about native plants provide an educational touch. Vibrantly designed and bursting with energy, Play Wild invites you to create lasting memories and nurture a lifelong love for the outdoors.’

Wild Wellington by Michael Szabo: ‘Wild Wellington features fascinating places to visit in Wellington city and beyond, including the Kāpiti Coast. This Te Papa Press publication is a terrific resource for people lucky enough to live in the region, as well as for visitors. It’s a compact yet thorough book full of colourful images, clear maps, and details about what to see and do – including information about walking tracks, public transport, accessibility, native flora and fauna, and the history of each area. Te ao Māori and conservation perspectives encourage thoughtful consideration of how we experience and care for what the region offers. The perfect book for your backpack or glovebox.’

YOUNG ADULT FICTION
Grasshopper by Mandy Hager: ‘A compelling young adult novel set against Wellington's vibrant landscape, exploring Grace's intricate journey of self-discovery and cultural resilience. Hager crafts a remarkable narrative that intertwines personal struggle with broader themes of heritage, trauma, and belonging. Grace's character—inspired by martial arts philosophy and drawing strength from her cultural roots—navigates complex familial silences and personal challenges with remarkable depth. The novel's nuanced portrayal of diverse experiences, including a sensitively rendered relationship with Charlie, a character with achondroplasia, elevates it beyond a simple coming-of-age story. Sharp, evocative prose and a keen eye for emotional complexity make this a work that speaks to universal experiences of love, ambition, and inner strength.’

The Mess of Our Lives by Mary Anne Scott: ‘Jordan has a secret he must hide from others which prevents him from making friends and leading an average kind of teenage life. It also means he must do his best to look after his sister, Tabitha, whose health is being badly affected. The Mess of Our Lives, in addressing an issue which is rarely written about in children’s fiction, courageously guides the reader through the chaos, devastation, shame and danger that results from compulsive hoarding. Every room of their home is piled high with ever-increasing mounds of rubbish, Jordan and Tabitha must scavenge for food and the essentials of life and their mother, Susan is too deeply affected by her obsession to respond to their needs. Hard-hitting and, at times, brutally honest in the depiction of the children’s circumstances, this is a powerful and thought-provoking novel.

Migration by Steph Matuku: ‘A electrifying young adult science fiction novel that masterfully weaves futuristic world-building with deeply rooted Māori cultural traditions. Matuku delivers a thrilling narrative following Farah, an 'Intuitive' trainee navigating a military wānanga, where she confronts both external threats and her own internal limitations. Set in a richly imagined future world of Aowhetū, the novel explores themes of colonisation, cultural survival, and personal transformation with remarkable depth and nuance. Farah's journey from privileged youth to committed defender is both action-packed and introspective, set against a backdrop of impending invasion that echoes real-world historical experiences. With fast-paced, layered prose and vivid environmental descriptions, Migration offers a compelling exploration of community, self-discovery, and the power of cultural resilience.’

The Night She Fell by Eileen Merriman: ‘Beautiful, confident, self-absorbed law student, Ashleigh, falls from the third floor of the flat she shares, and dies. What are the events leading up to her death and who is responsible? These are the questions which haunt this gripping and page-turning YA novel. The reader is taken into the authentically depicted world of university life where students strive for grades and status. Characters are vividly presented, the interactions and conflict between and amongst characters is utterly convincing and the novel is pacy and brim-filled with twists and tension.'

JUNIOR FICTION
Brave Kāhu and the Pōrangi Magpie by Shelley Burne-Field: ‘The importance of whānau and aroha soar in this cracking story about a mob of manu mates trying to get to safety. The story revolves around two kāhu sisters who must save their injured baby brother - before a coming flood destroys their home. Shelley Burne-Field's writing is as beautiful as the South Island landscape the feathered friends and foes inhabit. With some heavy themes and valuable lessons, Brave Kāhu and the Pōrangi Magpie is a highly original and captivating read.’

Children of the Rush, Book 3 by James Russell: ‘The third and last of the Children of the Rush series, is again set in the Otago and West Coast gold fields in 1860’s Aotearoa, New Zealand. The three children, Atarangi, Michael and Siu, having crossed the Southern alps and settled in Hokitika, are faced with further danger with the arrival of past enemies who they must defeat through quick thinking and courage. Rich in history and brimming with adventure, tension, and action, this is an exciting ending to this thrilling trilogy.’

The Grimmelings by Rachael King: ‘There may be a horse on the cover, but The Grimmelings by Rachael King is far from a “horse book”. It’s a spellbinding genre-defying story about courage, and horses and love. A family of three generations of women, outsiders in their small town, 13-year-old Ella doesn’t understand why her mum has to be so fierce and proud. And the tales her beloved Grandma Grizzly tells are just stories. Or are they? As the story unfolds, Ella discovers that her family is living in the shadow of a kelpie, a dangerous horse-like creature from Scottish folklore that is out for revenge on her family. The Grimmelings is a page-turning story exploring the liminal space between this world and another and the power of words. Beautifully written, this is sure to enthral young readers.'

Nine Girls by Stacy Gregg: ‘When her father loses his job and the family is forced to move from their home in Remuera to Ngaruawahia, Titch experiences the loss of all that has been familiar. At first everything in the town seems strange and Titch longs for her old life back, but gradually, as she connects with whanau and begins to make friends, she begins to feel more at ease in her new life. Discovering her whakapapa and learning about the history of the Waikato and the town, alongside learning what it is to be Māori brings riches she has never before experienced or envisaged. This is a suspense-filled novel, with vivid and intriguing characters, which beautifully blends reality with myth.’

The Raven’s Eye Runaways by Claire Mabey: ‘Captivating and enchanting, The Raven’s Eye Runaways is a stunning debut novel by Claire Mabey. The Raven’s Eye Runaways introduces us to a world where books are magical and powerful, forbidden to most, and a young bookbinder, a secret reader, must embark on a journey to go up against the system to save her mum. Mabey’s page-turning plot. electric prose, rich world-building and plucky characters are sure to delight young readers.’

Rimu: The Tree of Time by Lauren Keenan: ‘Adventure and history combine perfectly in this thrilling read about Amorangi and Millie's latest adventure. Terrifying things start to happen after a rimu tree is cut down so the siblings embark on a quest through time to change what happened. From the Wahine shipwreck, to the Mount Tarawera eruption and the Taranaki wars, Lauren Keenan weaves the past and present together in this action-packed read.

CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOKS
The Dream Factory by Steph Makatu: ‘a twisting tale of the magic and wonder of dreams. It’s a beautifully written book enhanced by a visually rich colour palate and fascinating detailed illustrations. With lots of opportunities for discussion around the power and magic of dreams as well as being a visual feast, this a great read-aloud book.

Elephant Park by Melanie Koster: ‘a gentle story about taking the time to restore old treasures. Inspired by the iconic elephant slide in Bishopdale Park in Otautahi Christchurch, in Elephant Park, Melanie Koster brings us a sweet story about the power of restoration and memories. With gorgeous illustrations by Jenny Cooper, Elephant Park is a heart-warming story which is sure to appeal to everyone who knows what it is to love an old playground, as well as generations of families who have known and loved the Bishopdale elephant slide from the 1970s.’

Hineraukatauri me Te Ara Pūoro by Elizabeth Gray: ‘Hineraukatauri, a chrysalis, has entered the world without a voice and visits the offspring of Ranginui and Papatuanuku who each provide a musical component which will together create her power of expression. Readers are taken on a journey where, at each place and meeting, Hineraukatauri is given a unique gift from the atua Maori. The use of te reo Maori brings power and musicality to the story and I can imagine children absorbed in the illustrations which are vivid and compelling. Hineraukatauri Me Te Ara Puoro uniquely and evocatively celebrates the power of merging story with image.’

Little Axel’s Axolotl by Juliette MacIver: ‘MacIver’s marvellous word wizardry continues with her latest tale of a young boy and his unusual pet. Although Harris Aristotle basks in Axel’s love in their everyday urban lives, he still dreams of a lakeside adventure… and more besides. But will he be able to wend his way in the world without his friend? The text sings with a deft weaving of clever rhymes and sparkly vocab to extend kids’ word power; and the delightful illustrations evoke the best of the Little Golden Books from the 50s.’

The Squeakling by Kristin Kelly: ‘When Babe and Sugar bring home a “squeakling” to live with them, Max, the basset hound, and Spike, the French bulldog, are puzzled. Despite the squeakling’s very obvious lack of talent, usefulness or charm, this intruder is demanding a great deal of attention. Max and Spike are missing their pats, so they come up with plans which are sure to re-claim Babe and Sugar’s attention. Delightfully written and colourfully illustrated, The Squeakling uses humour to engage with the questions that may arise for siblings when a new baby arrives and encourages discussion on issues such as love and inclusion.

The Very Best Words by Erin Munro, illustrated by Sarah Trolle: ‘Emma adores her new baby brother James - but naturally, he can’t yet talk to her. So she determines to bestow upon him the gift of words. Throughout the year, Emma shares words she experiences from a trip to the zoo; playing in her grandma’s garden; rummaging in the pantry - always making sure to add “love” - “the best word of all”. Happily, on James’ first birthday, he rewards Emma’s efforts with his own first words: “Love you!” This is a celebration of words so scrumptious to say aloud that arguably they should be part of our everyday lives once more: the likes of collywobbles, flibbertigibbet, hullabaloo, kerfuffle. From the cover and throughout, Sarah Trolle’s graceful artwork matches the tone of the book, expressing the joy and wonder of a baby’s first year of life, and the special kinship that develops between siblings.’