Shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is one of the most through-provoking and complete debut novels published recently and fully deserves to be on the shortlist of the Branford Boase award for debut novels. It’s got just about everything between its covers, from hair-raising excitement and characters that are so memorable they’ll stay with you forever, to breath-taking vistas of Africa as well as almost every emotion you can think of. You’ll be gripped by it, moved by it and once you’ve read you’ll want everyone else to read it too because it’s different and original.
Comments from the judges of this year's Branford Boase, Best Debut Novel of
the Year Award:
Nikki Gamble: “This year a large number of books were submitted for the awards and the judges noted an increase in established adult writers producing first novels for children. These trends reflect the increased profile of children's books in the press and media as well as the commercial success. The books selected for the shortlist are marked by their distinctive voices and authentic feeling for child or teenage readers. They are accessible but explore profound themes in the context of a story well told”.
Linda Buckley-Archer: “With its aim of recognising the author of the best debut novel for children and its editor(s), The Branford Boase Award continues to highlight and promote the next generation of children’s fiction writers. The 2008 shortlist represents some fascinating new voices across a variety of genres which are sure to excite and challenge readers. The judges noted a tendency on this year’s longlist away from fantasy and towards history and social realism.”
Trish Beswick: “We were delighted to find a spread of intelligent fiction submitted, eliciting spirited discussion amid the good humour and agreements. One-size-fits-all cannot and does not belong in the world of writing for children, and the complacent and bland were quickly cast aside. My thanks to the other judges for a booky, sparky afternoon!”
Ian Dodds: "The nominations for the 2008 Branford Boase Award yet again demonstrate the full range of new writing talent for children and young people. All the writers on this year's shortlist have distinct voices and all are adept at creating stories that will grip, excite and challenge young readers. Good writing for young people is vitally important and this shortlist proves that."
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