The recipients of the Yoto Carnegie Medals, celebrated as the UK's longest-standing and most beloved accolades for children's literature, were announced on Thursday during a live-streamed ceremony at the Cambridge Theatre.

A Historic Win: First Black British Writer To Receive the Medal

Joseph Coelho made history by becoming the first Black British writer to receive the Yoto Carnegie Medal for children's literature. Awarded for his novel-in-verse "The Boy Lost in the Maze," illustrated by Kate Milner, Coelho's achievement marked a significant milestone in the prize's legacy.

Drawn from the legend of Theseus, the book narrates the moving tale of a little boy who sets out on a mission to locate his father, who has been absent for a long time. Winning the prestigious Yoto Carnegie Medal holds deep personal significance for Coelho, who described it as a recognition by one of the most esteemed awards in children's literature, both in the UK and potentially worldwide, which he found particularly meaningful.

During his tenure as the current children's laureate, Coelho actively engaged with libraries across the UK, highlighting the dedication and creativity of librarians. He emphasized his honor in being recognized by librarians who deemed "The Boy Lost in the Maze" worthy of the Carnegie Medal. This novel resonates with its multi-layered narrative and immersive storytelling, earning praise from the judging panel chaired by Maura Farrelly of Victoria College Belfast.

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Celebrating the Wordless Books' Universal Appeal

Aaron Becker was also celebrated for winning the Yoto Carnegie Medal for illustration with his wordless picture book, "The Tree and the River." Becker's work was commended for its craftsmanship and universal appeal, inviting readers to interpret stories through imagery and promoting the idea that books can transcend words to reach even reluctant readers.

Becker expressed deep gratitude for the honor, calling it a recognition of the power of wordless books. Becker, who has always been captivated by illustrations since childhood, saw drawing as a means to create, imagine, and explore his imaginative worlds. He believed that in his wordless books, readers could engage at their own pace, interpreting stories freely without a narrator directing their thoughts.

Becker hoped that receiving this award would underscore that books, particularly those driven by imagery, are accessible and meaningful to all readers, including those not drawn to traditional written narratives.

Coelho and Becker will be awarded £5,000 each and a uniquely designed golden medal. 

Children's Choice Award: A Poetically Engaging Novel

Children from reading groups selected their preferred winners, each receiving medals and £500 worth of books to donate to libraries. Tia Fisher's debut novel "Crossing the Line," exploring themes of teenagers and county lines, won the Shadowers' Choice Award for writing, highlighting the diversity and impact of contemporary children's literature.

Emelie from the shadowing group KEVICHG highlighted that the verse style fits the book very well, while Thomas from Team Berko noted that the novel's structure keeps the readers excited. These comments underscore the novel's ability to captivate its audience through its poetic form, effectively engaging and stimulating young minds. 

Established in 1936 for writing and in 1955 for illustration, the Carnegie Medals have honored literary giants like CS Lewis and Phillip Pullman for writing and illustrators such as Raymond Briggs and Quentin Blake. The awards are open to books in English, fostering creativity and imagination in young readers worldwide.

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