Yoto Carnegie Medal 2024 Shortlisted Books

The Song Walker by Zillah Bethell

A compelling journey unfolds as two 13-year-old girls – one who has woken up with amnesia and the other on a quest – cross the Australian Outback. They develop a friendship, despite underlying secrets. Ideal for middle-grade readers seeking adventure and cultural exploration, this tale intricately weaves Australian history and Aboriginal beliefs into its narrative.

Featured in our Best Books of Spring 2023 list.

The Door of No Return by Kwame Alexander

11-year-old Kofi finds himself fighting for survival across land and sea, many miles from his home in Ghana. Kwame Alexander’s gritty verse story of slavery conveys the power of family, determination and traditional wisdom. Highly emotive and accessible, The Door of No Return is perfect for book group discussion. This outstanding work is a “Roots” for Gen Alpha.

Featured in our Adventure Books for Children and Teens list 

The Boy Lost in the Maze by Joseph Coelho

A gritty and innovative modern intertwining of Theseus and the Minotaur with a modern-day quest blends 20 chapters of dual narrative poetry with illustrator Kate Milner’s abstract forms and revitalised Greek motifs. Personal, accessible and memorable, Theo’s journey of self-discovery is highly relatable and will resonate. A landmark coming-of-age verse novel, The Boy Lost in the Maze is ideal to read and discuss with students in years 9-11. Highly recommended for KS4 libraries.

Featured in our Best Books for Autumn 2022 list. Read our review. 

Steady For This by Nathanael Lessore

Shaun ‘MC Growls’ aims to conquer Raptology, impress his crush Tanisha, and prove himself. But then a live performance goes Pete Tong, his friend is hospitalised, and his family faces eviction. With humour and heart, the story delves into friendship, family struggles, and self-discovery. It’s a relatable tale for KS3 and KS4, promoting resilience and the importance of authentic connections.

Safiyyah’s War by Hiba Noor Khan

Inspired by the heroic actions of the Grand Mosque of Paris, Hiba Noor Khan delivers with this captivating novel that follows Safiyyah, a young Muslim girl in Nazi-occupied Paris. Amidst the turmoil, Safiyyah’s quest for justice leads her into the clandestine resistance against oppression. The poignant storytelling sheds light on the forgotten role of Muslims in history, showcasing bravery, empathy, and resilience amidst adversity. It’s a compelling read which will resonate with USK2 and KS3 readers.

Featured in our WW2 Books for Children and Teens list.

Crossing the Line by Tia Fisher

Written in verse, this gritty and visceral narrative follows teenaged Erik who juggles a difficult home life, school work and the consequences of being groomed by and owing money to a dangerous county lines gang. Crossing the Line is a memorable story of manipulation that will be useful to read and discuss alongside anti-exploitation resources in PSHE and book clubs. Highly recommended.

Featured in our Year 10 Reading List list. Read our review. 

Choose Love by Nicola Davies and Petr Horáček

Highlighting the plight of refugees, Choose Love features poignant poems based on real stories, split into three sections: Departure, Arrival, and Healing. Ideal to discuss in KS2, this collection, accompanied by evocative artwork, offers insight into the challenges faced by displaced individuals, fostering empathy and understanding.

Away with Words by Sophie Cameron

Exploring the power of language and the beauty of friendship this heartwarming story of self-discovery follows Gala and Natalie’s bond that transcends language barriers. Blending a compelling mystery with a deft and sensitive study of selective mutism, ‘Away With Words’ is an important book that will challenge perceptions and open young minds. Highly recommended for KS3.

Our Fiction Book of the Month for May 2023. 

To The Other Side by Erika Meza

Erika Meza’s poignant tale follows a young brother and sister on a perilous journey across borders, depicted as a challenging game. Through striking illustrations and a simple, yet profound narrative, Meza conveys the harsh realities faced by refugee children, promoting empathy and understanding. Useful for primary book clubs and discussions in PSHE, this book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the migrant experience.

Featured in our Best Books for Spring 2023 list. 

The Tree and the River by Aaron Becker

In this wordless masterpiece, a majestic tree stands witness to the passage of time and the evolution of civilizations along a winding river. Through exquisite artwork, Becker portrays the ebb and flow of human existence, from humble beginnings to the rise and fall of civilizations. With its stunning visuals and thought-provoking themes, The Tree and the River is a timeless exploration of nature’s resilience.

Featured as our Book of the Day on 6th April 2023.

The Wilderness by Steve McCarthy

When the Vasylenko family decide to explore the wild, Oktober, who prefers books to outdoor exploration, faces challenges in the wilderness. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging prose, McCarthy delivers a memorable story of courage and unexpected friendship. Perfect for KS1, this adventure is great to read aloud and will captivate with its relatable characters and vibrant storytelling.

The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish by Chloe Savage

Dr Morley sets out with all the proper equipment, all the right people, and years of careful planning to find a bizarre monster that no one has ever seen before. Will she be the first to see the enigmatic jellyfish? This is a great story of adventure, perseverance and resilience that will encourage children to never give up.

Featured in our Year 1 Reading List and our Exploration Books List. 

April’s Garden by Isla McGuckin and Catalina Echeverri

April struggles to find hope amidst adversity but when she plants some seeds her world transforms from grey to vibrant colours, April’s resilience shines through in this sparkling that is ideal to read and discuss in KS1. With its gentle prose and captivating artwork it offers a message of hope for young readers facing challenges. Highly recommended.

The Bowerbird by Julia Donaldson and Catherine Rayner

Bert the Bowerbird builds an amazing nest to try and impress potential mates. Will his purple flower help to win Nanette’s heart? This beautifully illustrated rhyming story explores themes of perseverance and acceptance. Bert learns valuable lessons about love and self-worth making this a useful book to read and discuss with 3-5 year olds.

Lost by Mariajo Ilustrajo

A polar bear finds himself stranded in the bustling city and all the people are far too busy or self-important to help him. That’s except for one compassionate little girl who decides to help him. Through gentle illustrations and a touching narrative, Lost celebrates the bonds of friendship and the importance of kindness. Through empathy, this story reminds readers of the power of making someone feel at home. Highly recommended.

Featured in our Best Books for Spring 2023 list. 

The Midnight Panther by Poonam Mistry

Panther feels out of place and sets out into the jungle to face obstacles, overcome insecurities, and discover where he belongs. A stunningly illustrated, captivating, and mystical modern fable The Midnight Panther book is a joy to read aloud and share with a class at the end of the school day.

Featured in our Year 1 Reading List and our Best Books for Autumn 2022 list.