From a longlist of 20 books, the judges have chosen six to shortlist, a mix of fantasy and realism, with escapism and humour alongside hard-hitting contemporary stories.
Author: Ash Bond
Editor: Ruth Bennett
Publisher: Piccadilly Press
Mythology is given a modern makeover as mortal Peregrine Quinn sets out to rescue her immortal godfather, Daedalus Bloom, facing down laser gun-wielding reptiles in a race against time to save not only Daedalus but humanity itself from ancient evil. The judges admired Ash Bond’s strong voice and the way she manages an intricate plot, handling the different strands very well. It’s long, but pacey!
Author: James Fox
Editor: Lauren Fortune
Publisher: Scholastic
Solo Walker and his mum crash funerals for the free food. It’s all fine until they get found out in the worst possible way. A funny story that’s also full of pathos, and which sensitively confronts issues of poverty and mental health. This book caught us by surprise, say the judges, it’s layered and lets us know exactly what Solo is going through. An important, authentic voice.
Author: Ashley Hickson-Lovence
Editor: Katie Sinfield
Publisher: Penguin Random House
Structured in the form of a monthly diary, the book follows Ronny’s fortunes over the course of a year. After a shocking and violent event, he and his mother leave London for a new life in Norwich where the chance to develop his talent for creative writing brings new opportunities. This hard-hitting verse novel convinces from the first page. It includes multiple themes but handles them well. Powerful and memorable, say the judges.
Author: Amie Jordan
Editor: Rachel Leyshon
Publisher: Chicken House
A serial killer is at large in an otherworld Manchester, where Upside is inhabited by humans and other creatures who can, at will, look like humans; and a subterranean Downside has occupants ranging from werewolves and warlocks to fairies and pixies. At ease in both, Sage is determined to find the killer. The judges loved the world Amie Jordan creates, and the skill with which she structures the plot. It’s a page-turner with appeal for all.
Author: Margaret McDonald
Editor: Alice Swan, assisted by Ama Badu
Publisher: Faber
Also shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal of Writing
Finlay and Banjo were once good friends, but time and events have separated them. Now they are both in Glasgow, both striving to make new lives while coping with complicated histories. A coming-of-age novel exploring the power of identity, community and masculinity. The judges were deeply moved by the way the novel describes the experiences of young care leavers and with the character development throughout.
Author: Ashley Thorpe
Editor: Sarah Stewart
Publisher: Usborne
The gods are the capricious Orishas from West African folklore, giants who delight in demolishing local villages and devouring their people. Kayode is determined to rescue his little sister from them, whatever it takes. A terrific working of the quest format, say the judges, and one that turns tradition on its head. This exciting, fast-moving story has appeal for a broad readership, including those unfamiliar with the stories that inspire it.
Andrea Reece
30 Winton Avenue, London, N11 2AT
Tel: 0208 889 1292
Mob: 07807 893369
Email: branford.boase@gmail.com
Andrea Reece
Tel: 07807 893369 | Email: branford.boase@gmail.com