As part of the Hampshire Book Award, pupils were challenged to read a shortlist of four books before discussing the different titles and casting their votes for their favourite. The initiative gave pupils the opportunity not only to discover new authors and stories, but also to share their opinions and play an active part in choosing the eventual winner.

Having taken part in the judging process, pupils were invited to attend the awards ceremony, where winning author Fidan Meikle was presented with the award for her book My Name is Samim.

During the event, pupils had the opportunity to hear from Fidan as she spoke about her writing and the themes behind the winning novel. Her inspirational talk explored My Name is Samim and the experiences and challenges faced by refugees, encouraging pupils to consider the real lives and stories that can lie behind the subjects they encounter through fiction.

The morning provided a thought-provoking conclusion to the Book Award experience and a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to see how reading can open a window onto experiences and perspectives beyond their own.

Congratulations to Fidan Meikle, and well done to our Year 9 readers for taking part in this year’s Hampshire Book Award!