Inverness writer among more than160 backing calls for Scottish Children's Book Prize
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Inverness author Barbara Henderson has backed the campaign to reintroduce the award to recognise literature for young readers.
The initiative, which marks the run-up to World Book Night on April 23, has seen more than 160 signatories among Scottish authors, teachers, booksellers and librarians.
The Kids' Literature Scotland (KILTS) campaign argues that Scotland needs a national children's book prize once more, to celebrate writing, illustration and publishing in Scotland.
Ms Henderson said: “'Like many others, I would love to see a prize to celebrate excellence in Scottish children's books once more.
“Whether such a prize could be administered alongside the Saltire Awards or whether there is another route, we should not be afraid of calling for it. We have much to be proud of in Scottish children's publishing.”
Supporters of the campaign include bestselling children's author Abi Elphinstone, award-winning publisher and writer Alan Windram, and Scottish-based writers Alastair Chisholm, Fran Moldaschl, Gill Arbuthnott, Alex Nye, Helen Grant, Yvonne Banham, Susan Brownrigg, Taslin Pollock, Claire Watts, Skye McKenna, Stuart Reid, Kirstin Innes, Liz MacWhirter, Luan Goldie and Tom Nicoll.
The campaign seeks to reintroduce national children's book awards to encourage excellent literature for children and support home-grown talent.
KILTS volunteer and writer Victoria Williamson stated: “A book prize celebrating picture books, middle-grade books and teen books would not just benefit authors in Scotland, but would encourage schools and pupils to get involved in voting and in reading more books for pleasure.' Fellow writer Barbara Henderson agrees: “
