TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and award-winning illustrator Axel Scheffler – best known for his work on children’s classic The Gruffalo – are the first celebrity judges to be announced for Oscar's Book Prize 2021, with more to be revealed in the new year.
Now in its eighth year, Oscar’s Book Prize celebrates the best new books for under-fives – a vital time for children to fall in love with reading. James Ashton and Viveka Alvestrand created the prize in memory of their son, Oscar Ashton, who loved stories.
Commenting on her new role, Lorraine Kelly said:
“Some of my favourite memories as a parent include reading bedtime stories to my daughter Rosie and I cannot wait to see what colourful characters, adventures and stories appear in this year’s entries. I wish everyone entering the very best of luck.”
Axel Scheffler said:
“I know how much work goes into creating a book for under-fives age and the impact it can have, so I am delighted to be on the judging panel for Oscar’s Book Prize this year and look forward to championing the work of some great children’s illustrators and authors.”
Oscar's Book Prize is supported by Amazon, the Evening Standard and the National Literacy Trust and its patron is HRH Princess Beatrice. The prize’s organisers distribute donated shortlisted books to schools and nurseries across the UK.
Prize chairman James Ashton said:
“I'm delighted to welcome all our judges and supporters who will make our eighth annual contest the most thorough search yet for the picture book that will capture the imagination of young readers all over the UK."