I am delighted and honoured to be able to announce that Beetle Boy won the Branford Boase Award. This is a prize which is awarded annually for an outstanding first novel to a first-time writer of a book for young people and marks the important contribution of the editor in identifying and nurturing new talent. It is recognised as one of the most important awards in children’s books thanks to its impressive record in identifying authors with special talent at the start of their careers.
I am so proud to share this award with Barry Cunningham and Rachel Leyshon, my Chicken House editors. I also want to acknowledge the important role my scientific advisor, Dr Sarah Beynon plays in proof reading my books for scientific accuracy.
This is actually the first award I have won in my entire life and I will treasure it forever.
'M.G. Leonard is a classic storyteller, in the tradition of Roald Dahl or Dodie Smith, but an original voice. We predict that once again the Branford Boase Award judges have recognized an author who will be thrilling young readers for decades to come.'
Julia Eccleshare, chair of judges
Read articles about the award
The Bookseller
Foyles
