The Booker Prize Foundation has unveiled an exciting initiative: the "Children's Booker Prize," aimed at young readers aged 8 to 12. The inaugural award ceremony is set for 2027, with a generous prize of £50,000 for the winner.

On October 24, the Booker Prize Foundation announced a significant expansion of its awards, which have traditionally focused on adult authors. This new prize represents a pivotal moment in literature, providing a platform for young storytellers to shine.

Eligible participants can be children from any country, as long as their work is published in English or translated into English. However, the book must be published in the UK or Ireland to meet the traditional Booker Prize criteria. The initiative aims to cultivate a love for reading among children and to celebrate their literary abilities.

50,000 Pound Prize, Jury to Include Children

The winner will receive £50,000 (around US$67,000 or approximately 5.5 million rupees). Notably, the jury will consist of both children and adults, ensuring that the evaluation process reflects the perspectives of young readers. The jury will be led by Frank Cottrell-Boyce, a celebrated British author and the current Children's Laureate, who expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "Now the real explosion is about to begin. Let the shouting begin!"

The process will begin next year, with the first award in 2027.

Entries for the Children's Booker Prize will open in early 2026, with a review and selection period lasting about a year. This initiative is expected to inspire young readers and writers while providing new avenues for publishers to create engaging literature for this demographic.

The Booker Tradition Since 1969

Established in 1969, the Booker Prize is recognized as one of the most prestigious literary awards globally, honoring exceptional fiction written in English or translated into English. Notable winners include Salman Rushdie, Margaret Atwood, and Hilary Mantel. The prize has a strong connection to India, and the introduction of a children's category could present significant opportunities for young Indian readers and writers.

Indian author wins the Booker Prize this year.

This year, Indian author Banu Mushtaq, a lawyer and activist, received the International Booker Prize for her book "Heart Lamp," which is notable for being the first Kannada book to win this accolade. The book was translated into English by Deepa Bhashti, marking her as the first Indian translator to achieve this honor.