The winning titles in Nottingham City Libraries’ 8th Children’s Book Award have just been announced and spookily both winning books feature Spies.

The Award is organised by Nottingham City Library Service whose staff have been busy visiting local schools to promote the short-listed books. In total, over 10,000 books have been read since January.

After reading the five titles short-listed, children aged 7-12yrs voted for their favourite two paperback stories of the year. Children looked for books with that extra 'sparkle' which stay in the memory long after the book has been read.

In the ‘Emerging Reader Category’, ‘006 and A Bit’ by Kes Gray, illustrated by Nick Sharratt, was the firm favourite. Here we see the return of a favourite picture book character, Daisy. This time she is wearing a black felt tip moustache, dark glasses and is definitely ready for some spy action. Her mother plays along with the idea in this hilarious story ideal for children aged 7 upwards.

For the slightly older Developing Reader, ‘Spy Dog Unleashed’ by Andrew Cope, illustrated by Chris Mould was crowned winning title. A gripping and funny adventure, featuring Lara the super Spy Dog. When Mr Big escapes from prison and plans a diamond robbery it’s up to Lara to save the day…and the diamond.

Elaine Dykes, Service Development Librarian said:
"We’ve had fantastic support once again from local schools and would like to thank everyone who’s been involved and helped to make it such a success. It’s clear that children in Nottingham love books and we’re committed to helping children discover the joys of reading!"

A grand Celebration Day to mark the Awards is taking place at the Council House in Nottingham on Wednesday April 16, hosted by local author and storyteller Alison Davies. Local school children will join the Lord Mayor to welcome some of the short-listed authors and illustrators to Nottingham. It is also expected that some children will ‘get into character’ by dressing up as spies!

During the event awards will be presented to the creators of the winning books. Prizes will also be given to children who have been named winners of a writing and drawing competition. School children will participate in workshops led by the visiting authors and illustrators and learn about where ideas come from, how characters develop and what makes a winning book.

Children from Middleton Primary School will be performing a short play based on one of the winning books.

The Nottingham Children’s Book Award coincides with the launch of the National Year of Reading which begins this month.