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Take a Virtual TourOnSide is proud to be named as a delivery partner for the launch of the new Children’s Booker Prize 2027, a major new award from the Booker Prize Foundation celebrating the best contemporary fiction for children aged eight to 12.
Created to champion outstanding storytelling and encourage more children to discover the joy of reading, the Children’s Booker Prize launches at a time when children’s reading for pleasure is reported to be at its lowest level in 20 years.
As part of the prize’s social mission, 30,000 copies of shortlisted and winning books will be gifted to children who need them most, helping more children to access and own high-quality books. OnSide will work alongside a range of partners to help distribute books through its national network of Youth Zones, reaching young people in communities across the country.
Creating opportunities through reading
At OnSide, we know that reading can play a powerful role in building confidence, creativity and aspiration. Access to books and storytelling can open up new worlds, spark imagination and support young people to develop lifelong skills.
That is why we’re supporting The Children’s Booker Prize and its ambition to grow a new generation of readers.
Become a child judge
The Children’s Booker Prize is also searching for three child judges to join the adult panel and help choose the inaugural winner. Entries are open until 2 June 2026 from parents, carers and educators applying on behalf of children aged eight to 12 living in the UK. Find out more and enter here.
Supporting the national launch
To help mark the launch of the prize, filming took place at The Hive, Wirral Youth Zone, where young members met award-winning author and Children’s Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce as part of promotional content for the campaign.
The visit showcased the energy, creativity and potential of young people within the OnSide Network, while giving members the chance to take part in an exciting national initiative celebrating books and reading.
Looking ahead
The first Children’s Booker Prize winner will be announced in February 2027, with child judges joining the adult panel to choose the winning title. OnSide is proud to be part of this exciting new partnership and looks forward to helping more young people discover books they love through Youth Zones nationwide.
You can also watch Frank Cottrell-Boyce’s launch video inviting children to apply here:
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