BookTrust Storytime Prize shortlist unveiled in search for best book for sharing

Published on: 27 May 2019 Author: Catriona Wightman

The first ever BookTrust Storytime Prize shortlist has been unveiled, with seven wonderful titles nominated for the award.

The seven books on the first ever BookTrust Storytime Prize shortlist have been unveiled.

Baroness Floella Benjamin announced the nominated titles at a special event at Hay Festival, joined by nominated creators Nadia Shireen, Steve Antony, Emily Gravett, and Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet. 

The full shortlist is:

• Amazing by Steve Antony
• Billy and the Beast by Nadia Shireen 
• Cake by Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet
• Cyril and Pat by Emily Gravett
• Hat Tricks by Satoshi Kitamura
• If All The World Were by Joseph Coelho and Allison Colpoys
• Little Owl, Little Owl, Can't You Sleep by Jo Lodge

Finding the best book for sharing

The BookTrust Storytime Prize was established to find the best book for sharing with young children aged 0-5, and the shortlist was chosen by a panel of expert judges including Baroness Floella Benjamin, illustrator James Mayhew and librarians Amy McKay, Alison Brumwell, Jake Hope, Joy Court and Julia Hale.

'Narrowing the shortlist was an incredibly difficult decision, so difficult that we added a seventh book to the shortlist!' said Baroness Benjamin.

'We hope that the stories we've chosen will make kids (and adults) laugh, sing, dance and snooze. These books set the perfect platforms to start conversations about the importance of understanding and acceptance and will give families the perfect opportunity to bond.'

The award is run in partnership with the Youth Libraries Group and over the summer holidays, librarians from each of the nine English regions - along with Wales and Northern Ireland - will share the nominated books with children, carers and families to find the winner.

And BookTrust CEO Diana Gerald praised the shortlist judges for choosing a 'truly exciting collection of stories'.

'The books each celebrate individuality and diversity while reminding kids of important life-long lessons,' she said.

'At BookTrust we are always thrilled to share inspiring books for little ones and to celebrate the amazing children's authors and illustrators out there.'

The winning book will be announced at a special BookTrust Storytime Prize ceremony in London in November 2019, with a prize of £5,000 up for grabs.

Download the full press release

Find out more about the BookTrust Storytime Prize