Carnegie Medal
The UK's oldest and most prestigious award for children's and young adult writing, celebrating outstanding literary quality.
About the Carnegie Medal
The Carnegie Medal is awarded annually to the writer of an outstanding book for children and young adults. Established in 1936, it is the UK's oldest and most prestigious book award for children's literature, named after the Scottish-American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie who established thousands of libraries.
The award is administered by CILIP (the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals) and judged by a panel of children's librarians. The Carnegie Medal emphasizes literary excellence and is considered one of the most prestigious children's book awards worldwide.
Selection Criteria
- Plot - Well-structured narrative with satisfying resolution
- Characterization - Convincing and well-developed characters
- Style - Language appropriate for intended audience
- Setting - Effectively created atmosphere and world
- Accuracy - Factual accuracy where relevant
- Integrity - Truthfulness and lack of condescension
Eligibility Requirements
Books must be written in English and first published in the UK during the preceding year. Works of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry are all eligible. Nominations are made by CILIP members, with the judging panel reviewing all nominated titles.
Recent Carnegie Medal Winners
| Year | Title | Author |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | The Blue Book of Nebo | Manon Steffan Ros |
| 2023 | Starter for Ten | Ewa Wanat |
| 2022 | When the Sky Falls | Phil Earle |
| 2021 | Look Both Ways | Jason Reynolds |
| 2020 | Lark | Anthony McGowan |
| 2019 | The Poet X | Elizabeth Acevedo |
| 2018 | Where the World Ends | Geraldine McCaughrean |
| 2017 | Salt to the Sea | Ruta Sepetys |
| 2016 | One | Sarah Crossan |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Medals?
The Carnegie Medal honors writing excellence, while the Kate Greenaway Medal honors illustration. They are sister awards administered by CILIP, and winners are announced together at the same ceremony.
Can American authors win the Carnegie Medal?
Yes, any author can win regardless of nationality, as long as the book is written in English and first published in the UK during the eligibility period.
Who nominates books for the Carnegie Medal?
Nominations are made by CILIP members, primarily librarians working with children and young people. The judging panel then reads all nominated titles and creates a longlist, shortlist, and final winner.
What prize does the winner receive?
The winner receives a golden medal, a cash prize of 500 pounds worth of books donated to a library of their choice, and the Colin Mears Award cash prize. They also give a Carnegie Lecture.