Every nomination tells a story. As we raise funds to keep the BC and Yukon Book Prizes going, we asked past nominees to share theirs. Here, author Julie Wilkins reflects on how her shortlisting for We’re Happy You’re Here changed her as a writer — and why recognition like this matters more than ever.
Julie Wilkins reading We’re Happy You’re Here to kids at Fable Book Parlour in Revelstoke, BC
Being nominated for a BC and Yukon Book Prize was transformative for me personally in a number of ways.
As a bookseller who sees the many wonderful works created by Canadian authors and illustrators each year, I understand the incredible honor of being recognized alongside some of my favourite BC creators.
When We’re Happy You’re Here was shortlisted for the Christie Harris Illustrated Children’s Literature Prize in 2025 it truly rewired my thinking, helping to see myself as an author and shaping my dedication to the craft.
Pulled well out of my comfort zone, I embraced new experiences as a nominated author. From the “Writing the Coast” podcast, nominee soiree and book tour to the awards gala, each opportunity to engage with the literary community led to bookish joy and lifelong friendships.
In a world where inclusive titles are increasingly being pulled from shelves and banned, it is incredibly encouraging to see books like mine highlighted in this way. Most certainly, more readers gained access to We’re Happy Your Here and its representation of diverse family structures due to this nomination and the hard work of Megan Cole and the BC and Yukon Book Prizes.
Many core memories and sparks of inspiration have stemmed from the human connections I’ve made since this nomination. And while most will see my picture book’s new silver sticker as creative recognition, I’ll forever see it as a timestamp of personal growth and a shimmering reminder to keep writing.
In a climate where inclusive books are increasingly challenged, prizes like these do more than celebrate great writing — they protect it. Support the BC and Yukon Book Prizes fundraising campaign and help ensure stories like Julie’s continue to find their readers.