'Established in 2003, the ASA Medal is awarded biennially in recognition of an outstanding contribution to the Australian writing community. The medal complements the ASA's main focus as an advocate for the rights of authors and illustrators.' (Source:
https://www.asauthors.org/asa-medal )
In April 2003, to commemorate their fortieth birthday, the ASA (Australian Society of Authors), asked their members to select their favourite books. Members could select up to five books each. The results of the top forty books chosen (which appear in this newspaper piece) and of the inaugural ASA Medal won by Tim Winton were announced at the Society's fortieth birthday celebrations on 26 May, 2003. This column discusses Winton's popularity and other authors mentioned in the list.
