Winner:GOLD - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5yrs
Who:Nosy Crow
What:Now You Know Your ABC, written by Casper Salmon, illustrated by Matt Hunt
Why:
An alphabet book with a difference! Now You Know Your ABC puts little readers in the driving seat as they race from A to Z, trying to outsmart a very sneaky wolf along the way. This hilarious book turns learning the ABC into a game that children will want to play again and again. With the wolf cleverly hidden in disguise throughout, children are encouraged to get involved, spot him and keep turning the pages to see what happens next. Our judges loved the combination of Caspar Salmon’s clever, playful writing and Matt Hunt’s brilliantly witty illustrations, which make every page a joyful and fresh surprise.
"Funny, fast-paced and wonderfully interactive, this is an alphabet book that feels much more like play than learning."
"Perfect for story time, this is a book that the whole family can enjoy together and helps children learn by stealth. The best way!"
"This is definitely not your average ABC book. It's funny, chaotic in the best way and had me smiling from the first few pages. I love books that get children involved rather than just reading to them, and this one does exactly that. I can see it becoming a real favourite at story time."
Winner:JOINT SILVER - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5yrs
Who:Eco-Able
What:Mine, written by Dani Seatter, illustrated by by Anne Stead
Why:
A beautifully illustrated, thoughtful book about sharing, friendship and finding a way forward together. Set in an enchanting woodland and featuring a lovable cast of familiar animals, Mine gently explores what happens when two friends want the same thing, offering a range of ideas rather than a single answer. Children are encouraged to think about compromise, empathy, collaboration and kindness — making it a lovely springboard for conversations at home or in the classroom. We also love that it’s sustainably produced, printed on 100% recycled paper using eco-friendly inks and processes.
"I remember searching for a book that would help my children learn to share gladly! A great way to help kids pause, reflect and empathise in the safety of story time."
"With its charming autumnal illustrations, gentle humour and wonderfully warm message, this is a calm, comforting story to return to again and again."
Winner:JOINT SILVER - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5yrs
Who:Hachette Children's Group
What:The Turtle Who Turned the Tide, written by Rachel Bright, illustrated by Jim Field
Why:
This is a beautifully told story of bravery, kindness and the discovery that even the smallest actions can have a big impact. Rachel Bright’s storytelling is wonderfully rhythmic and pairs beautifully with Jim Field’s expressive, cinematic artwork, taking readers from a moonlit beach to the crashing sea. Full of energy, humour and heart, the oversized format makes the illustrations even more impressive and memorable. Our judges agreed that this would make a wonderful gift.
"A fantastic story full of action drama and pace. Kids will be riveted and adults will really enjoy voicing the characters."
"Packed full of brilliant illustrations and a great message – helping kids understand that every little helps."
"The Turtle Who Turned the Tide stands out for its thoughtful design and clear visual storytelling. The illustrations are vibrant and expressive, helping to communicate the environmental message in a way that's engaging rather than overwhelming for young readers. From an innovation perspective, it successfully combines an important real-world topic with an accessible picture book format, making sustainability feel relatable and age-appropriate. It's a well-executed example of how design can enhance both the story and its impact."
Winner:BRONZE - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5yrs
Who:DK Children's
What:Time to Explore Big Machines, written by Andrea Mills, illustrated by Diego Vaisberg
Why:
This is a brilliant hands-on introduction to the fascinating world of big machines, combining realistic illustrations, engaging facts and clever interactive features. Young readers can watch a building site come to life, from demolition and clearing rubble to the arrival of cranes, diggers and dumper trucks, before a satisfying gatefold reveals the finished building. Our judges appreciated the combination of clear, simple labels to introduce younger children to the vehicles and more in-depth facts for those with enquiring minds. Sturdy, informative and hugely satisfying to explore, this is a wonderfully engaging non-fiction book that children will return to time and time again.
"Calling all digger fans! The ultimate guide to big ticket vehicles is here."
"Diggers and dumper trucks are given the royal treatment here - any kids who love exciting, jumbo vehicles will be fascinated by this book."
"Time to Explore: Big Machines is a well-executed piece of children's non-fiction design. The visual hierarchy is clear and engaging."
Winner:EDITOR'S CHOICE - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5yrs
Who:DK Children's
What:Minna's Masks, written by Louise Gooding, illustrated by Irina Avgustinovich
Why:
This is a lovely story about bravery, belonging and being yourself. When Minna arrives at her new school without her usual masks, she feels nervous and exposed — until a classmate reveals that he has one too. Through their friendship, young readers are introduced to masking, empathy and self-acceptance in a simple, accessible way. The JDA judges agreed that this was a thoughtful and reassuring book and praised the evocative illustrations and text, that open up important conversations about inclusion and understanding.
"A really moving and insightful book that will help all children feel seen and heard - neurodivergent or not."
"A really sensitive and well thought out book that uses the clever analogy of physical masks to help children understand the concept of masking. A book that will help children and parents feel supported."
