The Wainwright Prize (formerly the James Cropper Wainwright Prize) has revealed the titles on this year’s Children’s Writing on Nature and Conservation shortlist, one of three award categories that also include Nature Writing and Writing on Conservation.

Named in honour of Alfred Wainwright, the author of the famous fell walking series the Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells, the prize showcases writing that celebrates nature and the environment, nurtures respect for the planet and informs readers of the threats that the earth currently faces.

This year’s panel of judges for the Children’s Writing on Nature and Conservation category includes children’s authors and illustrators, television presenters and experts from nature charities.

Commenting on this year’s shortlist, Uju Askika, children’s author and consultant said: ‘Each one of these shortlisted books stood out for its literary excellence, offering something unique in terms of writing voice, art style, unforgettable characters, danger, and humour. Each one evokes nature at its wildest and most wondrous and made me feel like (or want to be) a better human being for having read it.’

Congratulations to all the shortlisted authors and illustrators!

2024 Children’s Writing on Nature and Conservation Shortlist

Foxlight by Katya Balen (Bloomsbury Children’s Books)

The Observologist by Giselle Clarkson (Gecko Press)

Skrimsli by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Jackie Morris (Firefly Press)

Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell (Bloomsbury Children’s Books)

Geomancer: In the Shadow of the Wolf Queen by Kiran Millwood Hargrave (Orion Children’s Books)

Fly: A Child’s Guide to Birds and Where to Spot Them by David Lindo, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows (Magic Cat Publishing)

Global by Eoin Colfer and Andrew Donkin, illustrated by Giovanni Rigano (Hodder Children’s Books)

Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back by Isabella Tree, illustrated by Angela Harding (Macmillan Children’s Books)

The winners of all three award categories will be announced at a ceremony in London on 11th September. Watch out for our winner announcement!