A wonderful picture book can bring so much joy.

I’ve adored great picture books for many years. Those truly great ones with gloriously rendered illustrations that make my heart thumb.

Illustrations that persuade my fingers to linger a little bit longer than necessary before turning the page.

Illustrations that make me giggle or take my breath away. Sometimes they do all of these things, and much more as they convey the story through pictures.

The Klaus Flugge Prize, now in its second year, is awarded to the most exciting and promising newcomer to children’s picture book illustration.

The shortlisted titles, carefully chosen from a longlist of 15, were announced last night – 17th May 2017. They certainly represent an enticing mix of styles. The overall winner will be revealed at an award ceremony in London on Wednesday 13th September 2017 and will receive a cheque for £5,000.

Hugest congratulations to:

Emma Lewis for The Museum of Me

Kate Berube for Hannah And Sugar

Bomi Park for First Snow

Francesca Sanna for The Journey

Bethan Woollvin for Little Red.

More details can be found on The Klaus Flugge Prize website.

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