Dermot O’Leary has joined the judging panel for this year’s Oscar’s Book Prize.
The X-Factor presenter, is part of a line-up that includes Francesca Simon, creator of the Horrid Henry books, and reading development and children’s books consultant Jake Hope.
O’Leary, author of the Toto The Ninja Cat children’s series, said: “I was inspired to get involved with this prize because it celebrates those very early books that we all need as children.”
Now in its seventh year, Oscar’s Book Prize celebrates the best in literature for under-fives with a £5,000 prize and has Princess Beatrice as patron - you can read the terms and conditions for entry here.
It was set up in memory of Oscar Ashton, a boy who loved children’s stories who died aged three-and-a-half of an undetected heart condition.
His parents Viveka Alvestrand and James Ashton are on the judging panel, with Simon Johnson, country manager for Amazon UK Books, who said: “From our origins as a bookseller to present day, Amazon has always been passionate about inspiring children to read.”
The prize is supported by the National Literacy Trust. Chief executive Jonathan Douglas said: “The best picture books help children learn new words, imagine new things and … offer great opportunities for bonding. We are delighted to support an award that celebrates the incredible authors and illustrators whose stories engage, excite and educate our youngest minds.”
The Standard’s editor George Osborne said: “Oscar’s Book Prize began as a way of commemorating a young boy who loved stories. Today it continues to celebrate the power of storytelling and the vital role it plays in firing the imaginations of children.”
Publishers are invited to submit entries until 5pm on February 21. The shortlist will be announced on April 17, with the winner revealed on May 7.
Click here for the entry form and terms & conditions or visit oscarsbookprize.co.uk for more information
