PRESS: Shortlist Revealed - 2026 Author of Tomorrow Award

We are delighted to share the shortlist and commendations for 2026's Author of Tomorrow Award.  

Submissions arrived from talented young writers across the globe, and, as always, the selection process was both challenging and incredibly exciting. We are so grateful to every young writer who took the time to share their work with us. Thank you.

This year's shortlisted stories take us back in time, into space, under the sea, into the mountains, into a cyber-world and across continents. We can't wait to share them with you over the summer, but in the meantime, click on the links below to find out more about each of the stories, as well as the brilliant writers behind them!

11 & Under Category:

For their short stories of up to 500 words, Aahad, Owen and Hari are in the running to win £100, plus a £150 book token to give to their school, library or charity of choice.

12-15 Category:

For their works of 1,000 - 2,000 words, Daalya, Aarna or Kimi will win £250, also along with a £150 book token to give to their school, library or charity of choice.

16-21 Category:

Famya, Grace, Min Ru or Muhammad will win £1,000 for their story of 1,500 - 3,000 words.

All ten authors will be working with a professional editor over the summer, before having their work digitally published in an Author of Tomorrow Anthology on BookSmart by Worldreader. In the meantime, our young judging panel will be responsible for deciding the final winners, to be announced on 17th September, 2026. 

You can read interviews with the ten young writers and find out more their stories here.

Commendations

A additional 90 stories have received commendations from our reviewers for their originality, creativity and skill. Each writer will receive individual feedback on their work over the coming months. Congratulations to all!

Thank you...

We have to say a huge thank you to our incredible team of insightful and committed readers for your time and expertise. We are grateful for each and every one of you!

If you are interested in entering the Author of Tomorrow award next year, you can read more about what we're looking for here. If you'd like to join our team of readers and reviewers, please email Charlotte, our Prize Manager.