Through November and December, we’re casting a weekly spotlight on some of the best books based or published in the East of England, courtesy of the East Anglian Book Awards 2023.

Now in their sixteenth year, the awards celebrate the very best of publishing, writing, and reading in the region. The East Anglian Book Awards are a partnership between Jarrolds, the Eastern Daily Press, and the National Centre for Writing, supported by UEA Faculty of Arts & Humanities.

The Mal Peet Children’s Award

Judged by Ella Micheler, translator, publisher and editor, Kurumuru Books

For fans of heartwarming stories…

The Golden Mango Tree by Karen Li (Branching Out Books)

A beautifully illustrated book for all the family.

The Golden Mango Tree is a celebration of all that it means to grow up in a family with a diverse cultural background. It describes the bravery, hope and optimism required to uproot from all that is familiar, and to settle in a land where things are very different.

For readers aged 8+.

For fans of picture books…

Hairy Humbug Hog by Oliver Sheldrake

The wonderful story of the Hairy Humbog Hog from the Marshy Bog in Bluebell Woods. The Hog moves through the woods, encountering all sorts of different animals and looking for a place to call home.

For readers aged 4+.

Our judge said:

‘Stunningly illustrated, with subtle wit and warmth in all the animal expressions, the Hairy Humbug Hog is a charming creature that will delight children everywhere. This is a wonderfully produced book, with great care and attention to detail.’

For fans of adventure stories…

Monster in the Woods by Dave Shelton (David Fickling Books)

Rumour has it that there’s a monster in the woods. But why doesn’t anyone do something about it?

Frith is determined to save the day, and with her hard-working dad, younger brother, Spuggy, and dog (called Cabbage), Frith will travel to the big city to convince the king that Something Must Be Done. Along the way, she’ll encounter a Big Wise Head, a mysterious squirrel, and discover that, perhaps, not all is as it seems . . .

Full of wit and wisdom, Monster in the Woods is a future classic tale about family, friendship, and first impressions.

For readers aged 8+.

Our judge said:

‘An absolute romp of a story, with cleverly integrated image and text, “Monster in the Woods” features brave characters and valuable lessons on friendship and first impressions. I adored Frith and laughed out loud so much while following her journey.’

The category winners for the East Anglian Book Awards will be announced in the Eastern Daily Press in January, followed by the Overall Book of the Year Award and Exceptional Contribution Award later in the year.