The 2026 Winner
The winner for 2026 was My Dog by Olivia Wakeford. Voted for by more than 15 schools across Guildford and Surrey, it was a real hit with young readers, although every book on the shortlist was a fantastic read!
My Dog
Olivia Wakeford
Published by: Harper Collins
When Rhys finds a lost black Labrador, he can’t quite believe his luck. But when he moves to London to live with his estranged dad who hates dogs, Rhys decides to keep Worthington secret. He soon discovers that looking after a secret dog is anything but easy...
The books on the 2026 Shortlist
Shadow Thieves
Peter Burns
Published by: Farshore
Tom Morgan and his friends live on the streets of an alternate London, shining shoes and picking pockets – until one day Tom is offered the opportunity to train at an elite international boarding school for thieves.
The more secrets he learns about the Shadow League, the harder it becomes for Tom to leave.
Can Tom save his fellow pupils from disaster?
A Riddle for a King
Mark Forsyth
Published by: David Fickling Books
Philo longs for thrills and excitement, but he lives with his aunt and uncle who have strict schedules for everything, so there’s never time for shenanigans. However, when he discovers a strange new world through a secret door in the grandfather clock, Philo embarks on an epic, magical adventure beyond his wildest dreams.
My Name is Samim
Fidan Meikle
Published by: Floris Books
Thirteen-year-old Samim is a loyal friend, a gifted chess player - and a refugee. After his family is killed in a bombing, Samim makes a long, dangerous journey from Afghanistan to the UK.
Will Samim be granted asylum and allowed to stay in his new home?
Evenfall
Alexander Armstrong
Published by: Farshore
When Sam finds out that he is part of an ancient organisation, The Order of the Evening, his life changes forever.
His mum has died in a tragic accident and his dad has been unwell since her death - could there be something sinister behind what has happened to his parents? Can he protect the Order from those who seek to destroy the world?
