IBC Awards 2025 shortlist announced

Posted on Monday, January 20, 2025
Category: Book Awards

IBC Awards 2025 shortlist announced

The shortlist includes 12 baby books, picture books and children’s fiction titles, showcasing inclusive works for young readers published in the UK during 2024.  The winners will be announced on 26 February 2025.  

The judges were looking for inclusive representation at main character level within shortlisted titles, including ethnic minority, disabled, neurodivergence and LGBTQIA+ representation.  The judges also considered whether the books had an own-voice perspective (books by authors/illustrators who share the same cultural, ethnic or other identities as the characters they've created); offered a challenge to gender stereotypes; included representation of diverse family structures (single-­­­­­­­parent, blended or same-sex parent families); and had a diverse cast of characters beyond the main character.


This year's judges were Jen Campbell, an award-winning poet and bestselling author of 14 books for adults and children; Joseph Coelho, best-selling, multi-award-winning children's playwright and author; Liz Pemberton, director of The Black Nursery Manager, a training and consultancy company; Cathy Reay, a writer based in the Home Counties; illustrator David Roberts; and Sonia Thompson, headteacher at St Matthew's C.E. Primary School in Birmingham



The shortlist in full, with comments from IBC:


Baby and toddler books (1–3)


Bhorta Bhorta Baby! by Jumana Rahman, illus Maryam Huq
A fun-to-read, partially rhyming story of a baby helping his mum to make the classic Bangladeshi spicy mashed-potato dish, aloo bhorta. The bold, bright illustrations offer lovely nods to the author and illustrator's shared Bangladeshi heritage.


Our World: Democratic Republic of the Congo by Mel Nyoko, illus Joelle Avelino
A beautiful, bright board book highlighting some of the activities that take place in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. From counting at the market to seeing the wild bonobos and eating yummy foods, this book is perfect for exploring the country and even learning some Lingala, Tshiluba and Swahili!


Zeki Eats Out by Anna McQuinn, illus Ruth Hearson
Join Zeki, Daddy and Mr Seahorse as they eagerly meet Nana-G for a delightful day out, enjoying some scrumptious restaurant food. With a tender plot and charming illustrations, the story unfolds, celebrating cherished family moments and the joy of dining together in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.


Picture books (3–7)


Gina Kaminski Saves the Wolf by Craig Barr-Green, illus Francis Martin
Gina Kaminski's worldview comes to life through emojis and a clever three-point perspective in this empowering story. Two plot threads interweave, one concerning sensory over-stimulation, and the other exploring taking control of the stories told to us, in this case Little Red Riding Hood. Gina's neurodivergent traits will resonate with many readers.


Strong Like Me by Kelechi Okafor, illus Michaela Dias-Hayes
Kamara enjoys being strong and speedy, but her schoolfriends' criticisms cause her to doubt her physical ability. Beautifully visualised with shimmering illustrations that sparkle with warmth, light and colour, Okafor has written an engaging and inspirational story that skilfully helps children to feel secure in themselves.


Terrible Horses by Raymond Antrobus, illus Ken Wilson-Max
A brother and sister are in conflict in this relatable story about sibling bonds and rivalries. Communication lies at the heart of the poignant tale, as a boy finds release from inner frustrations through creating stories about terrible horses. Can these stories bring the siblings closer together? Impactful illustrations vividly capture both turmoil and tenderness.


Two People Can by Blessing Musariri, illus Maisie Paradise Shearring
A profound story about loss and coming to accept sudden change. Shingai misses his dad, and becomes impatient and boisterous. This turmoil cleverly matches the emotions Shingai feels and the trouble he has coming to terms with change in his family. There's a spirited nature to the warm, characterful illustrations.


Until You Find the Sun by Maryam Hassan, illus Anna Wilson
This is a book about belonging and finding that special sense of home in a new place. The stunning illustrations convey a feeling of nostalgia. This book will remind readers that you can maintain a relationship with a loved one abroad as well as make new friends in your new home.


Highly illustrated children’s fiction (5–9)


Destiny Ink: Sleepover Surprise by Adeola Sokunbi
A fun and endearing story about new experiences. With a fabulous hamster sidekick, a charming main character and an inventive storyline, there's lots to love about this delightful chapter book for emerging readers. Energetic black-and-white illustrations enrich every page, while a drawing tutorial invites budding artists to join in.


Keisha Jones Is a Force of Nature by Natalie Denny, illus Chanté Timothy
Curious Keisha Jones is always keen to know who, what, why and when. In this latest adventure, Keisha makes a stand to protect the VITS - very important trees. This pacy read has an admirable sense of friends coming together to act for a shared cause and make a positive difference.


Marv and the Humongous Hamster by Alex Falase-Koya, illus Paula Bowles
Bite-sized hamster Nibbles becomes a HUGE problem for Marvin when evil Dr Boom blasts his pet with some devastating resizing rays! Can superhero Marv save Nibbles, the other animals AND the whole town before he becomes a target too? This delightful, action-packed, superhero adventure, the sixth in the series, is a must for Marv fans.


Secret Beast Club: The Mer-People of Crystal Pier by Robin Birch, illus Jobe Anderson
This magical story will appeal to young mythology fans who love strange creatures. Inspired by Pablo Fanque, the first Black circus owner in Britain, it will amuse and delight. Sparkling throughout like a mer-person's tail are a trail of historical facts, ocean conservation warnings and comically expressive illustrations.