What is the Children's Laureate?
The role of Children's Laureate is awarded once every two years to an eminent writer or illustrator of children's books to celebrate outstanding achievement in their field. The appointment of a Children's Laureate acknowledges the importance of exceptional children's authors in creating the readers of tomorrow.
Where did the idea come from?
The idea originated from a conversation between (the then) Poet Laureate, Ted Hughes, and children's writer, Michael Morpurgo.
Who selects the Children's Laureate?
Nominations are considered from a wide range of organisations representing librarians, critics, writers and booksellers. This year, children have been able to take part in a competition to nominate the next Children's Laureate.
Past holders
The illustrator, Quentin Blake, was the first Children's Laureate 1999 - 2001 followed by:
Anne Fine 2001 - 2003
Michael Morpurgo 2003 - 2005
Jacqueline Wilson 2005 - 2007
Michael Rosen 2007 - 2009
Anthony Browne 2009 - 2011
Present holder:
Julia Donaldson 2011 – 2013