The six shortlisted books for the 2007 Branford Boase Award are announced today.  They are Anna Hibiscus, by Atinuke edited by Averil Whitehouse and published by Walker;  Nathan Fox by L Britney, edited by Rachel Denwood and published by Macmillan; Waves by Sharon Dogar, edited by Barry Cunningham and published by Chicken House; Before I Die by Jenny Downham, edited by David Fickling and published by David Fickling Books ; The Door of No Return by Sarah Mussi, edited by Beverly Birch and published by Hodder; Finding Violet Park by Jenny Valentine, edited by Stella Paskins and published by HarperCollins.

The annual Branford Boase Award celebrates the most promising book for seven year-olds and upwards by a first-time novelist, and highlights the importance of the editor in nurturing new authors. The author may have published other books in another genre - for example, poetry or a picture book - but eligibility for the prize requires that this is her or his first children’s novel. In addition to drawing attention to fresh talent in the field of children's books and encouraging publishers to find and promote new writers, the Award sets out to alert readers of all ages to the work of an interesting newcomer. The contribution of the Editor in the writing process is also acknowledged and promoted in this Award.

The judging panel, chaired by Julia Eccleshare, included Trish Beswick, Bookselling Consultant; Ian Dodds of the YLG; Nikki Gamble, Educational Consultant and Editor of Write Away; and Linda Buckley-Archer, author of Gideon the Cutpurse, which was highly commended for the 2006 Branford Boase Award.

Nikki Gamble commented: “This year a large number of books was submitted for the award and the judges noted an increase in established adult writers producing first novels for children. These trends reflect the increased profile of children's books in the press and media as well as the commercial success. The books selected for the shortlist are marked by their distinctive voices and authentic feeling for child or teenage readers. They are accessible but explore profound themes in the context of a story well told”.

 Linda Buckley-Archer had this to say about the shortlist: “With its aim of recognising the author of the best debut novel for children and its editor(s), The Branford Boase Award continues to highlight and promote the next generation of children’s fiction writers. The 2008 shortlist represents some fascinating new voices across a variety of genres which are sure to excite and challenge readers. The judges noted a tendency on this year’s longlist away from fantasy and towards history and social realism.'