Young readers choose graphic novel as overall winner of the Children’s Book Award
The Federation of Children’s Book Groups has revealed the winners of the 2026 Children’s Book Award, the only national book award voted for entirely by children.
Now celebrating its 46th year, the Children’s Book Award continues to shine a spotlight on the books that truly connect with young readers, with children across the UK choosing the stories that captured their imaginations, hearts and conversations over the past year.
This year’s winners are:
Books for Younger Children:
Gozzle by Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie (Macmillan Children’s Books)
Books for Younger Readers and Overall Winner:
Pablo and Splash: Roman Holiday by Sheena Dempsey (Bloomsbury Children’s Books)
Books for Older Readers:
My Name is Samim by Fidan Meikle (Floris Books)
Sheena Dempsey’s Pablo and Splash: Roman Holiday was not only voted winner in the Younger Readers category but also crowned the 
Overall Winner of the 2026 Children’s Book Award. ‘Bursting with humour, comic chaos and vibrant illustrations, the latest adventure in the much-loved series proved enormously popular with children across the country,’ say the FCBG.
The success of Pablo and Splash also reflects the continuing rise in popularity of graphic novels and illustrated fiction amongst young readers with dynamic, accessible and highly engaging, graphic storytelling playing an increasingly important role in fostering a love of reading.
Sarah Stuffins, CBA Coordinator says, ‘This year once again saw an outstanding response from young readers, with thousands of children taking part in the voting process. The continued enthusiasm for the award demonstrates the importance of giving children ownership over the stories they read and celebrate. This year’s winners reflect a fascinating cross-section of children’s books: a hilarious time-travel adventure story in graphic novel format, a heart-warming family story from a popular author/illustrator duo, and a thought-provoking debut about migration.’
The Federation of Children’s Book Groups would like to congratulate all of this year’s shortlisted authors and illustrators, whose books inspired such excitement and passion among young readers across the country. The winners were presented with their awards at a special ceremony in Birmingham on Saturday 13th June 2026. Reflecting the truly child-centred nature of the award, young readers themselves presented the trophies to the winning authors and illustrators, celebrating the books they have loved most throughout the year.
