A group of keen-reading Year 9 students were lucky enough to be invited to the annual CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Book Awards on Tuesday 18 June!
The CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Medals are the UK’s oldest and most prestigious children’s book awards, and recognise both outstanding writing and illustration in books for young people.
Students at NCW were excited to be involved in ‘shadowing’ the judging process for the Book Awards; they were able to read, discuss and review the shortlisted books selected, and many students had their own ideas of who they thought should win! The group also discussed the ways in which they accessed the books, whether it is by Braille, large print or electronically, and how that differed the reading experience.
They were all eager to find out who would win the awards!
After a smooth journey to the hustle and bustle of London by train and tube (albeit with a slight downpour of rain!), students made their way to the iconic British Library where the awards ceremony was being held.
Chelsea was thrilled that she had the chance to meet and speak to a few of the Authors before the ceremony commenced – Frances Hardinge, Author of ‘A Skinful of Shadows’, and Kwame Alexander, Author of ‘Rebound’.
Chelsea was enthralled: “I wanted to speak to Frances in particular on the idea she had behind the book, as it is so dystopian but a great read. This was my favourite book from the shortlist.”
Students heard many inspiring speeches from Librarians, Amnesty (Human Rights organisation) as well as award-winning Authors, Elizabeth Acevedo and Jackie Morris.
We have definitely been inspired to read much more, and we look forward to being involved in next year’s shortlist!
For more information on the CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Book Awards and winners, visit https://carnegiegreenaway.org.uk/.
