A RENFREW author has told of his joy after winning this year’s Scottish Teenage Book Prize.

Ross MacKenzie scooped the award and a £2,000 prize for his novel Evernight.

The contest is run by Scottish Book Trust, which encourages teenagers to get involved by reading three shortlisted books and voting for their favourite as part of their class or reading group.

Evernight was the most popular read, with more than 40% of the votes.

Ross is a multi award-winning author of books for children and teenagers, including Shadowsmith and The Nowhere Emporium.

He lives in Renfrew with his wife and two daughters and regularly visits primary schools, libraries and literary festivals, where he discusses the power of stories and imagination.
Ross also holds Q&A sessions and writing workshops.

His latest novel, Feast of the Evernight, was released earlier this month and continues the story of Larabelle Fox and her friends.

Ross said: “Winning any award is wonderful but what makes the Scottish Teenage Book Prize so special is the fact that teenagers all over Scotland have voted Evernight as their winner.

“I can’t tell you how grateful I am to everyone who voted or how proud I am that my book just might have provided an escape of sorts during a very difficult, sometimes frightening year.”

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, congratulated Ross on his success.

He said: “It’s been fantastic to see young people across Scotland getting involved, reading the shortlisted books and voting for their favourite read.

“Thank-you to the teachers and librarians that promoted the Scottish Teenage Book Prize within their schools. I’m sure those who voted in the prize will be thrilled to learn that the sequel to Evernight was released this month.”