Children’s books make their mark in adult world

TALES of magical and epic journeys. Themes of adventure, friendship, conflict and loss. Unjust imprisonment, childhood sorrow and a supernatural thriller.

With children’s novels increasingly gaining kudos as notable literary works, the shortlist for this year’s Bisto Children’s Book of the Year Awards once again proves novels for youngsters can provoke as much thought and debate as those for adults.

Ten quality offerings from authors such as Roddy Doyle, Eoin Colfer, Siobhan Dowd and Kate Thompson are set to battle it out for the coveted title of book of the year award worth e10,000.