A RENFREW author who has captured the imaginations of youngsters has been shortlisted for a national award.

Ross MacKenzie is one of just three writers to be named as a finalist for the 2021 Scottish Teenage Book Prize.

His novel Evernight was shortlisted by the judging panel at Scottish Book Trust, along with The Talented and Me by William Sutcliffe and White Eagles by Elizabeth Wein.

Ross is a multi award-winning author of books for children, including The Nowhere Emporium, which won both the Blue Peter Book Award and Scottish Children’s Book Award.

He regularly visits primary schools, libraries and literary festivals where he discusses the power of stories and imagination, and holds Q&A sessions and writing workshops.

“I’m equal parts surprised and thrilled that Evernight is on the shortlist for this year’s Scottish Teenage Book Prize,” Ross told The Gazette.

“It’s wonderful to know that readers all over the country will soon be venturing into the dangerous dark places of the Silver Kingdom. I wish you all a good journey.”

The Scottish Teenage Book Prize, now in its fifth year, was set up to celebrate the most popular teen books by authors in Scotland. Shortlisted authors receive £500 and the winner receives £3,000.

Teenagers of all ages are encouraged to read the three shortlisted books and then vote for their favourite as part of their class, book group or individually by Friday, March 5, 2021.

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: “Many congratulations to all the authors on the shortlist.”

The winning title will be announced on Wednesday, March 31, 2021, in an exclusive video available to classes who are registered to vote.  Register to vote online at scottishbooktrust.com/stbp.

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