Blue Peter Book Awards 2021
News
Four alumni feature in longlist for 2021 Blue Peter Book Awards
Wednesday, 4 November, 2020The creative writing department at Bath Spa University is celebrating yet another success with four of its MA Writing for Young People alumni nominated in the Blue Peter Book Awards 2021 longlist.
The nominated alumni and their books are:
- Tamarind and the Star of Ishta – Jasbinder Bilan
- The Girl Who Stole an Elephant – Nizrana Farook
- Snow Foal – Susanna Bailey
- Where the Wilderness Lives – Jess Butterworth
Lucy Christopher, Bath Spa University's MA Writing for Young People Course Director said, "We are thrilled to have our MA graduates' talent recognised by being longlisted for this hugely prestigious award.
"To have four of the twenty books on the longlist is a clear recognition of our graduates presence and influence in the children's publishing world. Our graduates continue to dominate awards lists, book lists, and book shelves across the country; a true testament to the calibre of our students and of the teaching staff."
Speaking about her nomination, Jasbinder Bilan said, "Being long listed for The Blue Peter Award for my latest book, Tamarind And The Star Of Ishta, was a huge honour. When there are so many wonderful books to choose from it is particularly thrilling to be chosen for such a prestigious prize. I wrote my debut, Asha And The Spirit Bird, on the MA Writing for Young People course, and it was the inspiration and support from the amazing tutors and fellow writers that made it possible. It’s the most incredible course which taught me so much."
Asha And The Spirit Bird won the 2019 Costa Children’s Book Award, and Jasbinder says this success "was a huge coup not only for myself but for the University and the creative writing course."
The Blue Peter Book Awards have now been running for 20 years, and recognise and celebrate "the best authors, the most creative illustrators and the greatest reads for children." Winners will be announced in March 2021.