For the last two months a group of keen readers from years 7,8, and 11, have been reading the eight books shortlisted for this year’s Carnegie Medal. The CILIP Carnegie Medal, one of the oldest and best-loved children’s book awards, is awarded by children’s librarians for an outstanding book written in English for children and young people. There is also a ‘Shadowers’ Choice’ version of the award, chosen by young people themselves.

This is the first year that Bushey Meads has had a group who are able to meet in person and share their thoughts and it has been lovely to see how they have grown in confidence, especially being from a variety of year groups. For each book they’ve finished the students have written a brief comment on a leaf and added it to our ever-blossoming tree in the LRC. Keep an eye out as it continues to grow, and if you want a book suggestion, you know where to look! So far they have read over 50 books between them in around 8 weeks! Several of the books have taken the readers far beyond their comfort-zone and they’ve been surprised how much they’ve enjoyed them.

In two weeks we will submit our votes which will help decide the Shadowers’ Choice. Then, we wait patiently, still reading in earnest until the winners are announced on 16th June.