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© Jay Ray 2008 |
On the night of 21st August, we all collected in the Houpton Alpha, one of Auckland's beautiful old buildings, now owned by the The Ashton Wylie Trust. The awards are one of the most generous awards in New Zealand literature, offering $10,000 for first place in either of two categories: unpublished manuscripts or published books. I had no idea I had been chosen as a finalist until my editor rang me. She had seen the latest newsletter from the NZ Society of Authors. I was gobsmacked! I had entered the manuscript two years ago to no avail, so had only re-entered it as a finished book at her insistent encouragement. I then promptly forgot all about it until that moment. The night was magnificent. We gathered towards the front of
the crowd with bated breath, waiting like Oscar recipients to find out where we
had come, and if we had won the big money. I saw faces drop as their names were
called out too soon, and vowed that wherever my book came it was an honour.
Indeed it was. There were some 60ish entries in my section, I believe, and I was
awards third place from 5 finalists. I am extremely honoured to have my book so
appreciated. Thanks to all who made it possible.
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