On Thursday 19 June 2025, I had the immense pleasure of attending The Carnegies once again—an event that continues to be a highlight of the literary calendar for me, both personally and professionally. Held at the beautiful Cambridge Theatre, home of Matilda The Musical, the ceremony was buzzing with excitement, with over 600 young people in attendance and thousands more watching via livestream. It was an unforgettable celebration of the power of children’s books.
Having previously served as a Carnegie judge, this event holds an especially meaningful place in my heart. I know first-hand just how much thought, passion, and commitment goes into the judging process—from reading every single nominated title to engaging in deep discussion with fellow librarians. Being on that panel was one of the most enriching experiences of my career, and it’s made me appreciate the awards on a whole new level.
This year’s event had all the magic I’ve come to expect, and more. We were warmly welcomed by Matilda’s very own librarian, Mrs Phelps, and guided through the ceremony by the ever-inspiring Joseph Coelho—the 2024 Carnegie Medal for Writing winner and former Waterstones Children’s Laureate.
The spotlight this year shone brightly on emerging talent, with Margaret McDonald becoming the youngest-ever winner of the Carnegie Medal for Writing at just 27. Her debut novel Glasgow Boys is a raw, moving story about two boys in care navigating trauma, friendship and identity. Margaret’s acceptance speech was deeply powerful—honest, vulnerable, and full of pride for her working-class roots, her experience as a disabled writer, and the people whose stories inspired her. She reminded us all of why we need books that reflect the full range of human experience.
The Carnegie Medal for Illustration went to the wonderfully talented Olivia Lomenech Gill for Clever Crow, written by Chris Butterworth. Her textured, earthy illustrations brought this non-fiction picture book vividly to life. Her thoughtful use of mixed media and her passion for education and wildlife left a strong impression. Olivia’s plans to use her prize money to support schools and libraries in Palestine further showed the impact artists can have far beyond the page.
One of the things I’ve always admired about the Carnegies is how they empower young people’s voices. Through the Shadowers’ Choice Medals, thousands of students from across the UK and beyond read the shortlisted books, engage in critical discussion, and vote for their favourites. This year, King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore was the young readers’ top pick for writing—a brilliantly funny, warm, and authentic story about masculinity and transformation. For illustration, the award went to Homebody by debut author-illustrator Theo Parish—a bold, beautiful graphic novel about identity and self-acceptance that truly resonated with shadowing groups.
As a school librarian who’s attended the Carnegies over several years, I’m always struck by the community this event fosters. Librarians, educators, young people, and creators come together to celebrate the stories that shape us. It’s not just about winners; it’s about recognising the deep emotional impact books can have—and the role we all play in bringing them into young readers’ hands.
Ros Harding, Chair of Judges, expressed heartfelt thanks to librarians and teachers across the country, and I couldn’t help but feel proud to be part of that network. Being in the room, surrounded by passionate advocates for children’s literature, reminded me why our work matters so much.
Congratulations to all of this year’s shortlisted and winning authors and illustrators. Your stories are already changing lives.
Blog written by Gareth Evans SLG Social Media Web Officer and YLG South West Committee Member/Treasurer.
