Tir Na n-Og

These are the main literature awards for children and young people in Wales. The Tir na n-Og Awards were established by the Books Council in 1976, and are given annually to honor original works of fiction or non-fiction by authors and illustrators of children’s books in Welsh and English published during the previous year. They aim to recognize, celebrate and promote high quality books for children and young people.

Three awards are presented, namely a Welsh primary category, a Welsh secondary category and an English book with a valid Welsh background. The awards are sponsored by CILIP Cymru (Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals Wales). The shortlist is usually revealed in March with the winners being announced in May.

TIR NA N-OG 2020 AWARDS
Books that cover some of the big topics of the day that came out on top in the Tir na n-Og 2020 Awards for children and young people’s literature in Welsh.

Pobol Drws Nesaf by Manon Steffan Ros and illustrator Jac Jones were winners in the Welsh category of primary age. This is a picture and story book for 3–7 year olds, encouraging us to respect everyone and not to criticize someone who looks and behaves differently to us.

The winner of the secondary Welsh category was Byw yn fy Nghroen, edited by Sioned Erin Hughes. The book is a compilation of the harrowing experiences of twelve young people who have had to struggle with long-term illness and health conditions. All participants are young people aged between 10 and 26, who discuss mental and physical illnesses such as cancer, epilepsy, Crohn’s disease, spina bifida, visual impairment, OCD, depression and anxiety.

Clare Fayers’ Storm Hound novel took the top prize in the English-medium category, a fantasy adventure story that blends Nordic and Welsh mythology.

  • Storm Hound wins Tir na n-Og 2020 English award
  • Pobol Drws Nesa and Byw yn fy Nghroen wins the 2020 Welsh language Awards

TIR NA N-OG SHADOWING SCHEME
This is a unique scheme for schools and libraries to raise awareness of the shortlisted titles and provide an opportunity to enjoy reading and discussing the books.

Classes or reading groups can be unofficial judges and select a shortlisted winner using a special resource pack designed to support the scheme.

To take part in the Shadowing Scheme, contact [email protected].