The Berkshire Book Award was launched in 2004 to celebrate the best, recently published books written for young people.  This Award is the first of its kind in Berkshire and is unique because young people both nominate the titles and select the winner. Thousands of young people from over 70 Berkshire schools have taken part.

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The Aim of the Berkshire Book Award is to contribute to young people’s achievement by:

• encouraging them to develop a love of reading and become lifelong readers

• encouraging social inclusion by organising events and activities for young people

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Research has shown that a love of reading is more important to young peoples’ educational success than either their family’s wealth or social class. Supporting young people to take part in the Award is one way in which schools can encourage young people to read more, improving their educational opportunities and encouraging social responsibility by giving them a major say in running the Award.  

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Participation in the Berkshire Book Award is open to all young people living or studying in Berkshire through their middle and secondary schools.

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Berkshire Book Award 2026 Information & Guidance for Teacher and Librarians