There are some exciting new award-winning books for children to devour this summer
following the announcement of the CILIP Carnegie Medal winners which is judged by
librarians across the UK.
First established back in the thirties, the awards recognise authors whose writing creates an outstanding reading experience whilst the coveted Kate Greenaway Medal, named after the
popular nineteenth century artist, rewards outstanding illustrations in a children’s book. This year’s winners serve up a treat for children of all ages!
US author Jason Reynolds won the Carnegie Medal for 'Look Both Ways', a collection of 10 standalone, yet intertwined, stories around independence on the journeys home from school. The book, aimed at 8-12 year olds, deals with issues as diverse as bereavement and
bullying in an engaging and emotional way. It explores how everyone may seem to be having similar experiences whilst they walk home but, in reality, they can be very different
depending on what is going on in children’s home lives.
The Kate Greenaway medal was won by illustrator Sydney Smith for the second time for his impactful illustrations for 'Small in the City' which tells the story of how it feels to be small,
lost and alone in an imposing, noisy, urban landscape. It’s an emotional journey for the child
as he processes the loss of a friend and shares his advice for surviving in the city. This is a
book for younger children, 4 - 7 to enjoy.
The Awards also feature the Shadowers’ Choice awards voted for by young people. This year’s winners were 'Run, Rebel' by Manjeet Mann (12+) for the Carnegie Shadower medal and 'Starbird' by Sharon King-Chai (3-7 years) for the Kate Greenaway award.
Find a list of all this year’s winning books here.
If you missed our interview with Ellen Krajewski, Head Judge for this year's awards, click here to view our latest newsletter.
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