THE Essex School Library Service is proud to announce the launch of the eighth Essex Book Award, a county-wide reading group aimed at key stage three students throughout the county. The award aims to encourage enjoyment of wider reading and foster a passion for fiction. The number of students who have enjoyed taking part in this prestigious award has grown dramatically in the last six years.

The Essex Book Award is designed to create debate and discussion amongst young readers. Featuring a shortlist of six works of fiction, chosen by Essex School Library Service librarians from a huge range of newly-published books for young people, all participants have the opportunity to write an online review. Encouraged throughout by librarians and staff in their own schools, all young people will be able to cast individual votes for their favourite book.

In February 2014, the votes will be counted and verified and the winning author will be invited to give a presentation to all participating schools during the summer term.

Shortlisted for the Essex Book Award are:

Silver by Chris Wooding
Last Chance Angel by Alex Gutteridge
Tall Tales from Pitch End by Nigel McDowell
Waiting for Gonzo by Dave Cousins
After Tomorrow by Gillian Cross
Whale Boy by Nicola Davies

Councillor Ray Gooding, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education said: “The Essex Book Award is a fantastic way of developing a life-long appreciation of literature in young people, in an enjoyable and engaging way.”

Brentwood Ursuline Convent High School said: “The EBA is a firm favourite with both students and library staff. We enjoy telling the students that it is their votes that count and that it is the children of Essex who decide which is their favourite book and not some stuffy panel somewhere.”

If your school has not already signed up to take part in the Essex Book Award please email Allison King at [email protected] or check out our fantastic blog eba2014.blogspot.co.uk.