The newly announced Children’s Booker Prize aims to engage young readers by including works of translation, marking a significant evolution in children’s literature. This initiative, championed by children’s laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce, is designed to encourage children to feel valued and included in the literary community. With children participating in the judging process, the prize seeks to draw thousands more young individuals into the enriching world of reading.
Cottrell-Boyce emphasizes the prize’s potential to enhance the literary landscape, stating that since the launch of the original Booker Prize, there has been a notable increase in exposure for authors who may have been overlooked. The inclusion of translated works is expected to broaden readers’ horizons, similar to the impact of the International Booker established in 2005. This move recognizes the vital role that translations play in enriching children’s literature and highlights the importance of diverse cultures and languages.
The decision to feature translated fiction in the Children’s Booker Prize is pivotal in acknowledging the contributions of global literature to young readers. Iconic characters like Pippi Longstocking from Sweden and the classic fairy tale Cinderella from France demonstrate the significance of international narratives. This initiative will showcase that literature from various cultures is a valuable part of the British children’s literary scene.
To celebrate this landmark decision, experts from Outside In World and World Kid Lit have compiled a list of five outstanding children’s books published in English translation since 2020. These organizations have worked diligently to elevate the profile of children’s literature from around the globe.
Recommended Translated Children’s Books
1. **Kiki’s Delivery Service** (Puffin, 2020)
This beloved Japanese classic by Eiko Kadano, originally published in 1985, has captured the hearts of many through its adaptation into a popular Studio Ghibli film. The English translation by Emily Balistrieri brings the humorous and enchanting adventures of a young witch and her cat, Jiji, to new audiences. The book offers a delightful escape for readers, especially those familiar with the film.
2. **The Táin: The Great Irish Battle Epic** (Little Island, 2023)
Translated from Irish by Alan Titley, this historical adventure retells the pivotal tale of the hero Cú Chulainn and the Warrior Queen Maeve. Beautifully illustrated by Eoin Coveney, this book has already garnered a nomination for the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing in 2024, showcasing the potential of translations to introduce young readers to significant literary traditions from Great Britain and Ireland.
3. **Sword of Fire** (Puffin, 2025)
This engaging fantasy adventure by Uruguayan author Federico Ivanier follows the brave heroine Martina Valiente as she faces the forces of Darkness in the imaginative realm of Novrogod. Translated into English by Claire Storey, this title marks the first contribution from Latin America to Puffin’s collection of modern classics, offering a fresh perspective to young readers.
4. **Na Willa and the House in the Alley** (Emma Press, 2023)
Translated by poets Ikhda Ayuning Maharsi Degoul and Kate Wakeling, this collection of mini-stories reflects author Reda Gaudiamo‘s childhood memories in Indonesia. The book features the curious heroine Na Willa, providing insights into her daily life that captivate even reluctant readers. This collection is particularly noteworthy for its vivid storytelling and engaging details.
5. **Akissi: Even More Tales of Mischief** (Flying Eye, 2020)
The vibrant and comic tales of Akissi, created by Marguerite Abouet, are based on her childhood experiences in the Ivory Coast. Translated by Marie Bédrune and Judith Taboy, this series delivers a blend of humor and cultural richness, making it a favorite among children aged eight to twelve. Accompanied by lively illustrations from Mathieu Sapin, these stories resonate with readers through their relatable themes and joyful chaos.
The inclusion of these translated works in the Children’s Booker Prize not only enriches the literary landscape but also opens doors for young readers to explore diverse narratives. The prize is set to encourage a broader appreciation for literature from different cultures, fostering a love for reading among the next generation. As the Children’s Booker Prize prepares for its inaugural shortlist in 2027, it promises to celebrate the power of storytelling across languages and borders.
