Branford Boase Award facts for kids

The Branford Boase Award is a special British award for books. It is given every year to a fantastic children's or young-adult novel. This award is unique because it celebrates a first-time writer. It also honors their editor, which is not common for book awards. The award looks for "the most promising book for seven year-olds and upwards by a first time novelist."

How the Branford Boase Award Started

The Branford Boase Award was created to remember two amazing people. They were Wendy Boase, an editor at Walker Books, and Henrietta Branford, a writer. They worked together on many books. Both Wendy and Henrietta sadly passed away in 1999.

This award was set up to keep their memory alive. It also helps new writers find their way in the world of books. Julia Eccleshare and Anne Marley, who both worked with books, came up with the idea for the award. The Branford Boase Award also runs alongside the Henrietta Branford Writing Competition. This competition is for young writers under 19 years old.

What Winners Receive

Winners of the Branford Boase Award get a special prize. They receive a beautiful hand-crafted box. This box has the Branford Boase Award logo on it. They also get a cheque for £1,000.

The award is given to both the author and their editor. This is because the editor plays a very important part. They help a new writer get their first book ready for readers. The award and its official website are currently supported by the famous children's author Jacqueline Wilson.

Branford Boase Award Winners

Here are the amazing writers and their editors who have won the Branford Boase Award: