Yoto Carnegie Medal 2023 Shortlisted Books

The Light in Everything by Katya Balen

When a mum’s son, Tom, and a dad’s daughter, Zara, are blended together into a family neither of them wants, all they have in common is hating the idea of a new sibling. But when Tom’s mum falls ill, all their lives are drawn together in ways they could never have imagined. An inspirational story of trust and courage that will appeal to children in upper KS2 and lower KS3.

Featured in our best new books for spring 2022 list. 

When Shadows Fall by Sita Brahmachari

This YA novel explores the lives of Kai, Orla, and Zak, as well as all the complicated connections, ties, dreams, and difficulties that bind them, through a unique combination of an edgy first-person recount and contemplative narrative verse. Will Kai’s friends be able to get him back on track when his life is turned upside down?

Featured in our Books for Year 11 list. Read our review. 

Medusa by Jessie Burton

The well-known Greek myth is turned upside down in this memorable contemporary retelling by Jessie Burton that focuses on Medusa’s backstory. Readers will find out just who Medusa really is, what motivates her and how she came to be feared. A riveting read for children aged 13+.

Our book of the day for 27th October 2021. 

The Eternal Return of Clara Hart by Louise Finch

When Spence witnesses what appears to be a tragic accident at a party, he soon finds himself trapped in an infinite time loop, experiencing the same events over and over again, each time desperately trying to change what unfolds. Only by reflecting and admitting to himself what really happened can he start to undo what has been done. An interesting read that will appeal to today’s social media generation aged 14+.

Needle by Patrice Lawrence

The destruction of her prized knitting creation is the final straw for Charlene, and in a fit of uncontrollable rage, she stabs her foster family sibling with a knitting needle. That action sets into motion a course of events that causes Charlene’s life to unravel into a world of impossible and unenviable decisions. This searing and accessible narrative of teen anger, hurt and criminal justice will appeal to teens in KS3 and 4 who want a book with a bite.

I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys

This fast-moving and dark dystopian thriller for older teens follows 17-year-old Christian who is blackmailed by the state authorities and forced to make a decision to either stick to his principles and resist, or betray his family to save his grandfather’s life. Based on true events, I must Betray You is an eye-opening window into survival within a controlling and repressive regime.

The Blue Book of Nebo by Manon Steffan Ros

14-year-old Dylan lives with his ‘mam’ in a remote house on top of a hill, barely remembering what life was like before all electricity turned off in an apocalyptic event called ‘The End’. A found notebook becomes a source of inspiration for both of them and helps them to redefine what it means to live and survive. The Blue Book of Nebo is a thought-provoking read that’s ideal to provoke discussion in KS4 book clubs.