Author kicks off children’s book award

The child-led award is now in its 11th year and emphasises making reading fun.

Yesterday’s launch event at the Doncaster Dome saw the long list of titles announced, which will be whittled down by young readers before the winners are announced next April.

Mr Baddiel has published four novels and two children’s books, The Parent Agency, which is included in the awards’ primary long list, and The Person Controller, which comes out next month. The author, who is also known for his television work with comedian Frank Skinner, told The Yorkshire Post: “I personally feel that anything that encourages children to read is a good thing. We know that kids are reading a lot - it’s the only sector of the book market that is growing - and I think that’s because there is such a lot of creativity around, not just in the writing, but in the illustrations and the marketing surrounding children’s books.

“It was brilliant to speak to the kids, you feel as though they are genuinely engaged with the story, and that means a lot to me.“

More than 750 children from across Doncaster and beyond attended the event.

Doncaster Book Award chair Lesley Hurworth said the awards was about much more than reading.

“The kids choose the books that go on the list, and then vote for their favourites once they’ve read them,“ she said.

“But we also run dance, drama and art workshops throughout the year based on the books, so that everyone, regardless of reading ability, can get involved.”

Children from across the region can still take part in judging the award by visiting www.doncasterbookaward.net