The Carnegies, celebrating the very best in children's literature, are the UK’s longest running awards and are unique in being judged by librarians, professionals working in the very heart of the children's book world.

Running alongside these much respected awards is the Shadowers’ Choice Medals voted for by thousands of reading groups in schools and libraries across the UK and around the world, who shadow the judging process and choose their own winners.

For many schools this scheme is one of the highlights of the year as young readers read, review and discuss the shortlist, engendering a passion for reading, and a feeling of belonging to a (not so secret) club that LOVE books.

This year we were thrilled to get the chance to speak to Ros Harding, the Chair of Judges for The Carnegies 2025, about the Carnegies Shadowing Scheme. We find out how it works, the benefits it brings, and get some tips for running the scheme in your school.

What is the Shadowing Scheme?

Engaging, inspiring and free to join! Every spring, CILIP invites reading groups from schools, libraries, and homes to join the exciting process of shadowing the Carnegie Medals. This experience gives young readers the chance to follow along with the official judging process as ‘shadowers.’

From mid-March, shadowers read, discuss, and review books from two separate shortlists—one for writing and one for illustration. Each shortlist features up to 8 books, and groups can choose to shadow one or both shortlists.

Shadowers share their thoughts online and vote for their favorites in the Shadowers’ Choice Awards. The winners of both the judges’ and shadowers’ medals are revealed in a livestreamed ceremony in mid-June.

With thousands of groups participating in the UK and around the world, shadowing engages tens of thousands of young readers, sparking a love for literature and critical thinking.

How does shadowing work?

The shadowing process begins in mid-March, following the shortlist announcement.

Participating groups receive free access to:
- Exclusive video interviews with the shortlisted authors and illustrators.
- High-quality resources for each shortlisted book, with discussion prompts, activities and more.
- Livestreamed awards ceremony in mid-June.
- Interactive book pages on the shadowing website where shadowers can:

  • Write reviews of the shortlisted books.
  • Upload artwork inspired by the stories and characters.
  • Vote in the Shadowers Choice Awards from May.

ALCS Poster Competition

The ALCS invites every shadowing group to design a poster that celebrates the power of reading, taking inspiration from the 2025 shortlists. All mediums and interpretations are welcome - the more creative the better!

The winning entry will receive a £1,000 prize for its school library plus your poster will be displayed at The Carnegies Awards ceremony 2025.

There are downloadable materials and lots of activity ideas available. Check out the Shadowing Group Leader FAQs for more info!

carnegies.co.uk/take-part

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