NSW Premier's Literary Awards 2010

Nette Hilton is a well-known writer of children’s literature, which ranges from early childhood stories to novels for older readers. She has won several awards for her books, including The Web, which was named an Honour Book by the Children’s Book Council of Australia, and the perennially popular picture book, A Proper Little Lady. Her most recent book, Living Next to Lulah, was a CBCA Notable Book in 2007.

Right now, Sprite Downberry’s life is pretty tough. Her dad’s busy and away a lot, and her mum, Sunny, is very moody and unpredictable, so Sprite feels she can’t tell her about the nasty girls at school. And Sprite is also worried about her little brother, Mozz. He can’t talk properly and he’s supposed to be starting school soon.

Now Dad’s taken off, and Sunny’s so unhappy she won’t even get out of bed. Determined to fix things, Sprite grabs Mozz and sets out to find their father.

In a night that never seems to end, Sprite faces decision after decision. Can she trust Luther, the runaway boy who rescues her and Mozz? And what should she tell the friendly policeman who knows so much about her?

By the time Sprite is reunited with her dad, things look like they’re getting out of control. Will she figure out how to get her family back together - and handle the friendship problems at school?

Sprite Downberry is published by HarperCollins

• Read an extract of Sprite Downberry
• Visit Nette's website for more information on Nette and her books