The film script adaptation of Natalie Abi-Ezzi's A GIRL MADE OF DUST has been shortlisted in the top 20 for the Shasha Grant. The critically acclaimed novel has been adapted by Steve Hawes and Monica Solon, and the winner of the $100,000 prize will be announced in Abu Dhabi.

The grant is the Abu Dhabi Film Commission's international screenwriting competition designed to identify, develop and launch the careers of outstanding filmmakers. One winner will be chosen during a gala ceremony at the Circle Conference later in the year.

A GIRL MADE OF DUST is set in a village in Lebanon during the time of the Israeli invasion of the 1980s and seen through the eyes of a young girl. A Middle Eastern TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, it has been shortlisted for the Authors' Club Best First Novel Award 2008, the Waverton Good Read Award 2009, the Desmond Elliott Prize 2009, and longlisted for the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award 2010 and sold in 10 countries.