This award recognises excellence in spoken word storytelling. The winning entry will offer an engaging and immersive audio experience for younger listeners.

Note: Qualifying entries must also be available in print in the UK. English language only.

Criteria

• Narration: Clear, well-paced, expressive and appropriate narration, engaging voice acting

• Craft: Quality of sound, editing and production including – if used – creative and appropriate use of SFX/music for mood and atmosphere

• Relevance: Age-appropriate themes, content and vocabulary

• Diversity and respectful representation People and experiences are portrayed authentically and with sensitivity, without stereotyping, generalising or trivialising.

• Impact: Overall a pleasurable and satisfying audio experience that will withstand repeat listening