Bill Condon

Winner of Inaugural Prime Ministers Young Adult Award

"I have no hesitation in saying that Leonie Tyle is one of Australia's best editors and publishers. I feel very privileged to have worked with her over the course of several years, in which she published four of my books for young adults. During these years Leonie was unfailingly cheerful and supportive at every step of the way. She nurtures authors, and that is a rare thing. I know from talking to others who worked with her, that she always gave generously of her time, talent and vast experience. She has a reputation for honesty, integrity, and loyalty, and is highly respected in the publishing industry. Among the books I published with Leonie are No Worries (2005) and Confessions of a Liar, Thief, and Failed Sex God (2009). No Worries was an Honor Book in the Children's Book Council of Australia Awards, and Confessions won the Prime Minister's Literary Award for Older Readers. The success of those books was largely due to Leonie, because it was her guidance and support that kept me going through the rocky times, when writing was just too hard. She helped carry the load with me - and I will always be indebted to her."

Chris Bongers & Leonie Tyle