Children's author claims prestigious British Book Award

Katherine Rundell has soared to the pinnacle of literary acclaim, securing the coveted title of Author of the Year at the esteemed British Book Awards. This triumph marks a historic moment, as it's been six years since the honor was last bestowed upon a children's author.

Rundell's enchanting new release, “Impossible Creatures,” a fantasy adventure that opens the doors to a fresh trilogy, has also clinched the Children's Fiction Book of the Year award.

The awards ceremony, a highlight in London's literary calendar, also celebrated GT Karber's “Murdle,” a murder-mystery puzzle book that captivated the judges, earning it the Overall Book of the Year title.

Rebecca F Kuang continues her winning streak, securing the Fiction Book of the Year award for the second consecutive year with her latest work, “Yellowface,” a novel that has sparked widespread conversation since its debut, following her previous win with “Babel” in 2023.

Rundell's victory as the first children's author to claim the top spot since Philip Pullman's win in 2018 places her among the ranks of luminaries such as Marian Keyes, Richard Osman, and Bonnie Garmus.

“Impossible Creatures” has not only enchanted readers but also captured the hearts of the curators at Waterstones, earning the title of their Book of the Year for 2023.

Karber, drawing inspiration from the viral sensation Wordle, has crafted a puzzle book that resonates with the zeitgeist. His innovative approach has placed him alongside literary giants like EL James and Sally Rooney as recipients of the Book of the Year accolade.

Rory Stewart, with his penetrating memoir “Politics on the Edge,” has outshone memoirs by global figures, claiming the Non-Fiction Narrative Book of the Year award.

Lisa Jewell, with her gripping narrative “None of This is True,” has achieved a rare feat, winning both the Crime & Thriller and Audiobook Fiction Book of the Year awards, marking her most successful publication in two decades.

Atinuke's “Brilliant Black British History” has been lauded for its engaging approach to children's non-fiction, making history accessible and captivating for young readers.