Science fiction and fantasy novels made the shortlist of the Ruth & Sylvia Schwartz Children’s Book Awards in the YA/Middle Reader category.

Included among the five finalists are Starclimber by Kenneth Oppel and The Shadow of Malabron by Thomas Wharton. I highly recommend a visit to Starclimber’s wonderful website to see the animated space elevator.

These awards for Canadian children’s literature are co-administered by the Ontario Arts Foundation, the Ontario Arts Council which manages the jury process, and Canadian Booksellers Association whose members choose the short list of books. Awards are given in two categories (the other category is Children’s Picture Books). The winners, selected by juries of young readers, each receive $6,000. The results will be announced on May 20, 2009.

[Thanks to John Mansfield for the link.]