SEAWrite award judges showed their preference for storytelling with fresh perspectives on society when they unveiled nine finalists yesterday.

Thai writers submitted 76 books, and judge Yura-chat Boonsanit said the finalists were selected on the basis of original content and writing style.

"We don't really look at the genre," Yurachat said. "We look for outstanding content and style."

The finalists:

"Kao Garn Hai Pai Kong Ariya and Other Stories" ("News of the Disappea-rance of Ariya") by Siri-worn Kaewkarn

"Kayhawatu" by Anusorn Tipyanon

"Tam Ha Chau Chewit" ("Searching for It All My Life") by Saowari

"Thai Company Unlimi-ted" by Sanan Choosakul

"Prathana Heng Jan" ("Desire of the Moon") by Moon Shadow

"We Have Forgotten Something" by Wachara Sajjasarasin

"Some Stories are More Suitable to Be a Real Story" by Chamlong Phangcholjit

"Wannagam Tog Sra" by Panu Trivej

"Moo Baan Aerobic" ("Aerobic Community") by Tasanwadee