Nominations for Oscar’s Book Prize opened today in a bid to discover the best book for under-fives published in the past year. Set up by Oscar’s parents, James and Viveka, in tribute to his love of stories after he passed away at the age of three from an undetected heart condition, Oscar’s Book Prize has been backed by Amazon and the National Literacy Trust for two years running.
Brigitte Ricou-Bellan, UK Director of Books at Amazon, said: “At Amazon we are passionate about helping children discover the joy of reading and Oscar’s Book Prize is a fantastic celebration of children’s literature that we’re proud to support. As someone with a life-long passion for children’s’ books, I look forward to seeing the wonderful and colourful tales entered this year.”
Last year’s prize-winning book was The Koala Who Could – a heart-warming tale about Kevin the Koala, which provides a positive message about facing up to change, something that young children can sometimes struggle with.
Rachel Bright, author of The Koala Who Could said: “It has been such a privilege to be part of the Oscar’s Book Prize, an award that champions the magic of stories. I think stories can bring out the best in all of us and remind us that anything is possible. Oscar’s Book Prize is a passionate celebration of all that’s magical about storytelling and Jim, the illustrator, and I are honoured to be on their awards shelf.”
Publishers are invited to submit entries for the 2018 prize by the 16th of March, with the shortlist announced on 23rd April, with the winner revealed on 14th May in central London.
