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The winners of the 2009 Early Years Awards, administered by Booktrust, were revealed last night (23rd September); the prizes are intended to "celebrate, publicise and reward the exciting range of books being published today for babies, toddlers and pre-school children".
The winner of the Baby Book Award was Chick by Ed Vere (Puffin); the winner of the Pre-School Award was Oliver Who Travelled Far and Wide by Mara Bergman, illustrated by Nick Maland (Hodder Children’s Books); and Katie Cleminson won Best Emerging Illustrator for Box of Tricks (Jonathan Cape)
Wendy Cooling, MBE, Bookstart founder and chair of judges, said: "The winning books have that wonder that is so important for very young children; they will be read over and over again and adult readers will not complain at the 'Again please!'
"There’s originality, imagination and excellent design in all three, always as much to enjoy in the pictures as in the words. These books hold the magic that really will lead children into reading."
This year's judges also included broadcaster and television presenter Edith Bowman, librarian Jo Dixon, illustrator Neal Layton and health professional Val Woolfe.
Cooling presented each winner with £2,000 and a customised trophy. Cleminson also received a specially commissioned piece of original artwork donated by judge Neal Layton.
The publishers of the three winning titles were also presented with certificates.