Excelsior Award White 2026

2026 Shortlist
The books on the Excelsior Award White shortlst have been designated as suitable for children aged 9+ (or Key Stage 2 in schools)
Click on the book's title for extra information
Hilda and her new friend, Burku the giant, are enjoying playing together in the Wilderness. There is just one thing that would make everything more fun... snow!
It just so happens that Twig has accidentally woken the Ice Man! Unfortunately, that means there's a lot more than a snow flurry headed straight for Hilda!
Details
Writer: Luke Pearson
Artist: Luke Pearson
Published by Flying Eye Books
ISBN: 978-1838742928
In a galaxy beyond the Milky Way, three friends and their goofy sidekick discover a mysterious glowing orb. It draws them into the Emotosphere, where their adventure begins. Feelings run high and friendships are tested as they face the Galaxy of Woah and the swirling Vortex.
Can these friends work together to master the 7 Cosmic Powers and navigate the Emotosphere? Will the cast of intriguing characters they meet along the way help them find their ultimate treasure?
Details
Writer: Russ Daff & Dr. Susannah Redhead
Artist: Russ Daff
Published by ZunTold
ISBN: 978-1915758293
Peaceful life in a perfectly constructed town bores ten-year-old Nico into mischief. Riding creepers while they explode is fun and all, but what he really wants is to escape the blocky confines of his home and take his crafting skills on an adventure to the end of the world. Just how big is the world, anyway, and what could stand in his way?
Details
Writer: Kazuyoshi Seto
Artist: Kazuyoshi Seto
Published by Viz Media
ISBN: 978-1974747146
It's almost sunset, and Hassan has been dreaming about eating since the sun came up. The month of Ramadan has begun, and not eating until sundown intensifies his already busy days full of homework, soccer, and gaming. And since his teachers and friends at school barely understand Ramadan and its traditions, it's easier to just… not mention it.
Details
Writer: Wahab Algarmi
Artist: Wahab Algarmi
Published by Harper Collins
ISBN: 978-0063355668
Some stories will tell you fairies are sweet, kind, magical creatures. Well, those stories are WRONG. It’s time everyone knew the TRUTH! Fairies are sneaky, cunning and about as magical as slugs.
Join our impulsive, hilarious and somewhat surprising hero Pip on a breakneck adventure among the warring unfairy tribes of The Garden.
Details
Writer: Huw Aaron
Artist: Huw Aaron
Published by Penguin
ISBN: 978-0241683767





