The Australian Book Industry Awards shortlist have been announced and – no surprise, really – there are quite a few friendly names on the press release. Extra special excitement is reserved for Mr Benjamin Law, a relatively new addition to the Booked Out family (but we’ve loved his writing for oh, like ages). He’s shortlisted in THREE categories, including the gold logie of the awards, Book of the Year 2011.

• Benjamin Law – The Family Law

Shortlisted for Biography of the Year, Newcomer of the Year (debut writer) and Book of the Year

• Jane Godwin & Anna Walker – All Through the Year

Shortlisted for Book of the Year for Younger Children

• Freya Blackwood – Maudie and Bear

Shortlisted for Book of the Year for Younger Children

• Cath Crowley – Graffiti Moon

Shortlisted for Book of the Year for Older Children

• Morris Gleitzman – Now

Shortlisted for Book of the Year for Older Children

• Jon Bauer – Rocks in the Belly

Shortlisted for Literary Fiction Book of the Year

• Anna Krien – Into the Woods: The Battle for Tasmania’s Forests

Shortlisted for Newcomer of the Year (debut writer)

The winners will be announced on July 25.

P.S. Prime Minister’s Literary Awards announced later today…