The shortlists for two book prizes for children and young people feature stories about friendship and the environment, according to organisers.
The CILIP Carnegie Medal and Kate Greenaway Medal shortlists were announced on Thursday and feature three debut novels.
These are Dean Atta’s The Black Flamingo, which is up for the Carnegie Medal, as well as Beth Waters’ Child Of St Kilda and Levi Pinfold’s The Dam, which are up for the Kate Greenaway medal.
Several of the shortlisted books “tell stories that champion the importance of community, friendships and family bonds in overcoming challenging moments”, according to a statement from the organisers of the awards.
Julia Hale, who is the chair of the judging panel, said: “Although each book is uniquely original, there are some commonalities that have emerged.
“Survival, the environment and the persisting inequalities and prejudices in our world today were themes that came through strongly.
“As a positive response to these challenges, the shortlists offer solace by displaying the awesome beauty of the natural world, human determination and courage, kindness and support which were frequent touchstones throughout these remarkable books.”
Other shortlisted books include Nick Lane’s Nowhere On Earth and Angie Thomas’ On The Come Up, which are up for the Carnegie Medal, as well as Poonam Mistry’s You’re Snug With Me and Shaun Tan’s Tales From The Inner City, which are up for the Kate Greenaway Medal.
The winners will be announced on June 17 at an event at the British Library.