Cheshire Schools’ Book Award celebrates 20 years of inspiring young readers

Cheshire Education Library Service marked a major milestone during the National Year of Reading, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Cheshire Schools’ Book Award with a special event at Storyhouse, Chester, on Monday 18th May.

A total of 29 schools from across Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire East, Halton and Warrington attended the celebration, bringing together more than 400 pupils for a day dedicated to reading and literature. The event featured author workshops, talks, book-themed activities and tours, culminating in an awards ceremony in the Storyhouse main theatre.

Shortlisted authors Ravena Guron, Sophie Jo, Marisa Linton, Louisa Reid and Jenny Pearson attended the event, generously delivering workshops and meeting students throughout the day. Pupils also had the opportunity to have books signed and speak directly with the authors ahead of the awards announcement.

The event recognised a record year for the awards, with 36 secondary schools taking part. The Cheshire Schools’ Book Award is unique in being entirely student-led, with pupils responsible for nominating and voting for their favourite books. The shortlisted titles reflect books that resonate most strongly with young people – those that are widely shared, spark discussion and reflect their experiences.

Feedback from participating schools highlighted the impact of the day, with many praising the opportunity to engage directly with authors and celebrate a shared love of reading.

Helsby High School – ‘Just wanted to say a massive thank you for the Celebration Day. It was amazing and the students loved it.’

Queens Park High School - ‘What can we from QPHS say but a huge thank you from us!  We had a great day the students loved the entire day talking to authors and being with other book worms. You all do a great job inspiring the next generation of readers.’  

Bishop Heber High School - ‘I just wanted to send an email to say how much the students enjoyed yesterday. They have all asked to come again next year and really enjoyed the whole experience.’

The winners and runners-up of the 2026 Cheshire Schools’ Book Award are:

• Younger category winner: The Vulpine by Polly Crosby
• Younger category runner-up: Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson
• Older category winner: Traumaland by Josh Silver
• Older category runner-up: Mondays Are Murder by Ravena Guron

Cheshire Education Library Service thanked Storyhouse for hosting the event and Nantwich Bookshop for supporting students to purchase books on the day.

The Education Library Service continues to support subscribing schools across the region in promoting reading for pleasure and literacy development.

More information about the service and the awards can be found on Cheshire Education Library Service’s social media channels and website.

Residents can also access the shortlisted titles by joining their local library via the Cheshire West and Chester Council website and are encouraged to share their own reading recommendations throughout the National Year of Reading.