The YABBA Award winners have been declared for 2020.

For the first time, the ceremony was held online. Creators and schools gathered virtually to celebrate the 35th Annual YABBA Awards.

Too Many Cheeky Dogs

Written by Johanna Bell
Illustrated by Dion Beasley

Published 2016 by Allen & Unwin

Felice Arena
Author

The Graham Davey Citation is presented by the YABBA Council to a book or person that through craft or contribution has made an impact on Australian Children’s literature. This is the only award where children don’t vote, this is an honorary award from the YABBA Council.

This year we acknowledged Felice Arena for his amazing body of work as an author, actor, speaker, TV presenter and playwright. Felice has had 17 books shortlisted and the following books have won YABBA Awards:

• Specky Magee: Boots of Glory (2006)
• Specky Magee: Legends in the Making (2007)
• Specky Magee: Spirit of the Game (2009)

Felice has also had been entered into the Hall of Fame twice for Boyz Rule: Park Soccer (2008) and Specky Magee and the Best of Oz (2016).

Born in Kyabram, of Italian heritage Felice has gone on to more recently write historical fiction titles that really connect young readers to authentic landmarks and actual historical events that took place across Europe.

Felice’s contribution to YABBA has seen him take part in the inaugural ‘In Conversation’ evening and his involvement in the YABBA Awards Ceremony has seen him involved since 2006.

Congratulations again Felice Arena, YABBA’s 2020 Graham Davey Citation recipient.

Michelle Nye