The book industry is a deeply collaborative ecosystem: through our Awards we showcase, connect and uplift the individuals and teams who bring books and stories to the world.

The British Book Awards ceremony is made of two halves:

Book of the Year

The Book of the Year Awards are unique in that they reward authors, illustrators, and the wider team behind a book’s journey. The three criteria our judges consider are:

• Literary merit
• Sales success
• Publishing excellence

The Books of the Year spotlight the titles that have stirred imaginations, started conversations, topped the bestseller lists - books whose pages have been well-thumbed, well-worn and well-loved, whose ideas have formed that thread of inescapable connection between one reader and the next. The shortlists and winners demonstrate a combination of unforgettable writing, exceptional sales, and an outstanding approach to publishing.

Book Trade Awards

The Trade Awards celebrate every step in the book creation chain, from independent bookshops and regional small presses, to agents championing debut authors, to marketers and publicists finding the most creative routes to readers.

The Awards is a snapshot of the industry’s achievements and output, and reflects a business that is at the heart of many different conversations. It is committed to amplifying publishing talent from traditionally underrepresented communities, and ensures that this is upheld throughout the event and beyond. Publishers make books for everyone, and the Awards echoes their commitment to freedom of expression with texts that can challenge and inform, as well as entertain.

To book your tickets to The British Book Awards 2026, please email gaby.pitts@thebookseller.com.

What We Do

We champion great storytelling.

The Nibbies are an affirmation of customer choice and publisher effort. Celebrating the hard work of everyone from bookshops to small presses, agents to editors, and everyone in between.

We celebrate the people behind the books.

Inclusive and accessible, affirming the right of everyone to be part of the amazing publishing community. Supporting how our interconnected roles come together.

We showcase the role of books in society.

Energising the trade: giving an opportunity to recognise accomplishments both in person and across social media and in press. Providing a much-needed boost for the year ahead.

We promote connection in the book trade.

Introducing the book industry to the wider world, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity that goes into the production of the nation’s best-loved books.