Several local authors are among the finalists vying for recognition in seven categories at the 30th Annual BC Book Prizes.
The West Coast Book Prize Society announced its shortlist earlier this month.
North Vancouver writer Russell Thornton's book of poetry Birds, Metals, Stones & Rain is a finalist for the Dorothy Livesay Poetry Prize, awarded annually to the author of the best work of poetry.
West Vancouver resident David Stouck has been nominated for two awards for his work Arthur Erickson: An Architect's Life, including the Roderick Haig-Brown Regional Prize, which recognizes the author of the book that contributes most to the enjoyment and understanding of British Columbia, and the Hubert Evans Non-Fiction Prize, awarded to the author of the best original nonfiction literary work.
Théodora Armstrong, who grew up in North Vancouver, is the author of Clear Skies, No Wind, 100% Visibility, a finalist for the Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize, awarded to the author of the best work of fiction.
And Becky Citra, who grew up in West Vancouver, is a finalist for the Sheila A. Egoff Children's Literature Prize, awarded to the best non-illustrated book written for children, for her book If Only.
Winners will be announced at the Lieutenant Governor's BC Book Prizes Gala at the Renaissance Vancouver Harbourside Hotel on May 3. Meanwhile, a selection of the shortlisted authors will participate in an author reading tour throughout B.C. in April.
