Authors remain opposed to the government’s controversial 'vetting and barring' scheme, despite a change that largely excludes them from having to be registered. The government climb-down also means that the vast majority of booksellers will now not, in the normal course of their bookselling to schools, have to register with the...

Former Children's Laureate Anne Fine has warned that "realism has gone too far" in contemporary children's literature. The Times reports that Fine has claimed modern day children's books are bleak, with little to inspire young readers.

She said: "In the Fifties, when a strong child was dealing with...

Current and former children’s laureates will join forces this spring to help celebrate the first decade of the children’s laureate post. The promotion includes a Laureate’s Table, inspired by Waterstone’s Writer’s Table, whereby the laureates will reveal their favourite children’s books.

Former...