From sci-fi to football, Greek myths to refugees, we have an interesting mix of debut authors and established names. As in previous years we are splitting the shortlist into two categories – one for younger students and one for older students. This year the awards will also be open to avid readers in Year 6. You can request either list or both. We are happy for the older list to be read by younger students if you feel the titles are appropriate.

All the books have been nominated by subscribing secondary students from across our seven local authorities, including Cheshire, Warrington, Halton and Staffordshire. Schools have until Friday 2nd May to read, discuss and vote for their favourite books. Participation is free, fun and highly likely to involve the consumption of many and varied reading snacks.

The award ceremony will be held at Storyhouse, Chester on Wednesday 21st May 2025. We are hoping for a full day of activities with the authors. 

Younger age category 

Black Hole Cinema Club by Christopher Edge 

The Final Year by Matt Goodfellow 

Codename Kingfisher by Liz Kessler 

Steady for This by Nathanael Lessore 

Me and Aaron Ramsay by Ros Manon Stefan 

Older age category 

What the World Doesn't See by Mel Darbon

Finding Phoebe by Gavin Extence

Girl, Goddess, Queen by Bea Fitzgerald 

The Things We Leave Behind by Clare Furniss 

Wild East by Ashley Hickson-Lovence 

 

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For more information on the Cheshire Schools' Book Award 2025, including how your school can sign up, please email Susannah Hill at susannah.hill@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.