Pragya Agarwal and Phyllis Ramage on judging panel for 2026 IBC Awards
Inclusive Books for Children (IBC) has announced that the following experts will form the judging panel for their 2026 awards: Pragya Agarwal, writer and academic; Scott Evans, primary school teacher and creator of The Reader Teacher website; Mei Matsuoka, children’s illustrator and author; Phyllis Ramage, librarian and children’s literature academic; and Nina Tame, disability consultant and content creator, will decide this year’s shortlists and winners across three age categories.
Worth £30,000 and now in their third year, the IBC Awards recognise exceptional UK children’s book authors and illustrators who excel in storytelling and whose books authentically reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of today’s young readers. Find details of the 2025 winners on Books for Keeps.
Awards judge, Pragya Agarwal, reflected on the importance of this now established book prize for young readers: ‘My research shows that children learn biases and prejudices from a young age, and books can play a big role in teaching children the values of equality, inclusivity and empathy. As a parent and educator, I have keen interest in how children’s books can reveal the diversity of the world to our children and help them challenge stereotypes. This award is an important step in acknowledging such books and shining a light on them.’
Fabia Turner, head of content at IBC, said, ‘We’re delighted, yet again, to have such an esteemed judging panel for what will be the third year of the IBC Awards. Each judge brings a unique perspective and a real depth of lived experience around equality and inclusion, as well as knowledge of children’s literature. We’re really looking forward to hearing their views on the books — well done to all the incredible longlisted creatives! — and we are really excited to see their final selection.’
The award winners will be announced on 25 February 2026 at a live awards ceremony at London’s iconic Southbank Centre, following the release of the shortlists in January.
You can learn more about the IBC Awards judges and book prize on the IBC website.
