Since 2014, the Brilliant Book Award has celebrated the latest and most exciting books for readers in Years 7 to 9 in secondary schools.
The shortlisted titles are handpicked by our librarians, giving pupils the opportunity to discover and enjoy some of the best new books available through the autumn term. The award is a great way to encourage reading for pleasure in schools and gives young people the opportunity to attend a live, day-long event to meet and hear from the shortlisted authors.
Shortlist
Runaways by E.L. Norry
Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson
I Dare You by Tamsin Winter
New You For Ever by Steve Cole
After by Pádraig Kenny
Avalanche by Simon Fox
Timetable 2027
| Friday 25 September 2026 | Shortlist shared with schools |
| Tuesday 3 November 2026 | Brilliant Book Award launched |
| Tuesday 2 February 2027 | Voting opens |
| Tuesday 16 March 2027 | Brilliant Book Award Live Author Event, Squire Performing Arts Centre, Nottingham |
| Friday 19 March 2027 | Voting closes |
| Tuesday 23 March 2027 | Winner announced |
Vote
Voting will be open between Tuesday 2 February - Friday 19 March 2027! Return to this page to cast your vote in spring term.
