School children’s favourite authors celebrated in Leeds Book Awards

The favourite books of Leeds school children have been given a special seal of approval as part of two ceremonies held in the city this month.

The 2016 Leeds Book Awards once again proved to a big hit with over 800 children from 67 primary schools and 21 high schools packing into Pudsey Civic Hall to find out which books and authors would be named as the winners in the 9-11, 11-14 and 14-16 age categories.

As part of the Leeds Book Awards, young people also have the chance to vote for their own particular favourite after reading, reviewing and discussing each shortlisted book, and tension was high before the individual winners were revealed.

Taking the honours in the 9-11 category was Gill Lewis with “Gorilla Dawn”, while in the 11-14 category, Andrew Norriss was named as the winner for “Jessica’s Ghost”. Triumphing in the 14-16 category was Lisa Williamson with “The Art of Being Normal”.

With the winners names revealed and many of the authors also in attendance, children were then given the chance to not only meet their favourite writer but also leave with a treasured memento by having their books signed. Reviews submitted by the school children can be read along with the information about all the shortlisted authors on www.leedsbookawards.co.uk

Councillor Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council executive member for communities said:

“The enthusiasm and passion that so many of our young people have for the Leeds Book Awards really is inspiring, once again the two events held this year proved to be very popular with the city's young people.

“The power of a good book to stir our young people’s imagination and creativity can never be underestimated, and what is lovely about this event is that many of the nominees attend the Leeds Book Awards, which is so inspiring.”

Councillor Jane Dowson, Leeds City Council’s deputy executive member for children and families, said:

“It was an honour to attend the Leeds Book Awards, which are getting bigger and better every year.

“It is clear that our young people enjoy the thrill of reading and it is great that through the Book Awards they have the opportunity to vote for their favourite.

“It was inspiring to see so many top authors take the time to meet the young people and answer their questions. I am sure many will now want to pursue writing and who knows will one day become authors themselves”

Notes to editors:

The Leeds Book Awards is delivered by Leeds Library and Information Service via the School Library Service and public libraries.

For media enquiries, please contact;

Colin Dickinson, Leeds City Council press office (0113) 39 51578

Email: colin.dickinson@leeds.gov.uk