A shortlist has been released for the 2026 Branford Boase Award, which is sponsored by Walker Books and presented to the author of an outstanding debut novel for children. The prize also honors the editor of the winning title and highlights the importance of the editor in nurturing new talent. The winner, who will be named July 8, receives £1,000 (about $1,355), with author and editor each getting an inscribed plaque. This year's shortlisted titles are:
Tart by Becki Jayne Crossley, edited by Cathy Liney
How to Roller-Skate with One Leg by Ella Dove, illustrated by Jennifer Jamieson, edited by Anne Marie Ryan
Evie and Maryam's Family Tree by Janeen Hayat, edited by Bella Pearson
Love on Sight by Asli Jensen, edited by Shalini Vallepur
Gloam by Jack Mackay, edited by Katie Jennings
The Romantic Tragedies of a Drama King by Harry Trevaldwyn, edited by Emma Jones and Charlie Castelletti
Augmented by Kenechi Udogu, edited by Natasha Brown and Jenny Glencross