Book for Children Competition
The many entries in this category once again show how writers of books for children know how to inspire and captivate young readers. Top prize is £750, with £300 and £200 going to second and third-placed runners-up.
There is also £100 for the best local winner.
We are delighted to announce the 2025 Book for Children Shortlist
Earthstone The Silver Serpent – Paul Roberts
Deepwood City – Simone Schuemmelfeder
Heartwood – Tamasin Ford
Demon’s Moon – Jackie Johnston
The Light Beyond the Mountains – Alka Handa
Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea – Josie O\’Reilly
Don’t Teach Me, I’m Cursed! – Alex Clissold-Jones
The Boy Who Danced – Steve Eddison
A House Called Freak- Barbara Godwin
Owl in the Attic – Mel Darbon
Arn Frys Angelic Fortunes and Frauds – Joley Dutton
Sidelined – Katherine Shingler
The Devil In The Shadows – James Dron
The Light Collector – Sharon Tregenza
West Cliff Beach – Elisabeth Riley
Prize Giving and Poetry Reading take place on Monday 20 October starting at 2pm as part of the Festival.
Tickets to this event are free but seats can be reserved through Cedars Hall.
Book for Children Judge 2025
Fleur Hitchcock
Successful children’s author Fleur Hitchcock has written numerous award-winning thrillers that have gripped both critics and young readers. Her latest is Murder at Wintertide, published by Noisy Crow. Fleur began her writing career in the small hours when her young family was fast asleep. She went on to do an MA in Writing For Young People at Bath Spa University, graduating with distinction. Since then her books have been shortlisted or have won many honours.