Each year, the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) celebrates the finest in Australian children’s literature through its prestigious Book of the Year Awards. Established in 1946, these awards highlight stories that captivate, challenge, and inspire young readers, recognising exceptional writing and illustration across six categories. The CBCA awards not only spotlight the talent of Australian authors and illustrators but also play a vital role in shaping the literary landscape for children and young adults. Here are our top picks from this year’s shortlist!
As the 2025 shortlist showcases a diverse and compelling array of voices, it’s clear that storytelling for younger audiences continues to thrive and evolve with creativity, depth, and purpose. Any of the books chosen for the 2025 shortlist are a safe bet when it comes to picking your child’s next read. However, sometimes it’s helpful for the choice to be made for you!
Below, we have collected our favourites from each category.
Older Readers Shortlist – Birdy by Sharon Kernot
We all know that waning attention spans are causing trouble not just with young but older readers too. Award-winning author Sharon Kernot has the perfect solution in the form of a beautiful, emotionally intense verse novel that can be consumed in bite-sized chunks. Its form lends itself to the book’s authentic voice and sensitive handling of identity and belonging perfectly, balancing heavy with light and making a propulsive read out of the verse form.
Younger Readers Shortlist – Fluff: Mess Up! by Matt Stanton
Matt Stanton’s Fluff: Mess Up! is book two in a funny junior graphic novel series about Gilbert, a boy whose best friend is an imaginary giant fluffy bunny called Fluff. With graphic novels on the rise among children of all ages, this book will capture the attention of even the most reluctant of readers. It’s fast paced, hilarious, and full of unexpected adventures – perfect for picky readers who love quirky books.
Early Childhood Shortlist – Don’t Worry, Felix by Yohann Devezy & Katharine Alice, illustrated by Zoe Bennett
Has your budding reader ever had to deal with nerves? Chances are, most children have experienced anxiety in one form or another. Don’t Worry, Felix provides practical advice for calming nerves through the visual representation of a big red balloon that grows as Felix’s worries grow – but luckily, his dad is there to help him deal with his fears in a healthy way. This charming but helpful book will aid young readers getting acquainted with anxiety for the first time in a playful but practical way.
Picture Book of the Year Shortlist – Afloat illustrated by Freya Blackwood, written by Kirli Saunders
Some books bring readers together – across different ages, backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures. Afloat is one of these books. Written by award-winning Gunai author Kirli Saunders and illustrated by seven-time CBCA-winner Freya Blackwood, this beautiful picture book tells a story set in an impending climate crisis at the appropriate level for curious young readers interested in First Nations practices and the weaving of a community. Its lyrical language and richly layered visuals make Afloat an informative and eye-opening, yet gentle read for young and old.
Eve Pownall Award Shortlist – South With the Seabirds by Jess McGeachin
Not only beautifully illustrated, but in possession of an incredible true story too – South With the Seabirds by Jess McGeachin follows four remarkable scientists and their incredible journey to the sub-Antarctic. The first female scientists to join an Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition are there to research the giant seabirds, snorting seals and penguins that are there to greet them. This book is an inspiration to both boys and girls, and a reminder to follow your dreams even if the odds are against you.
New Illustrator Shortlist – Grow Big, Little Seed illustrated by Sarah Capon, written by Bec Nanayakkara
When it comes to illustration, everyone has their personal tastes and preferences, from parents to children. But Sarah Capon’s intricately layered paper illustrations are sure to awe both reader and readee. Besides the uniquely gorgeous illustration, this gentle tale has multiple layers to explore, as young Nina’s pumpkin plant withers away at the same time as her mum loses her pregnancy. This story about rainbow babies provides room for discussion with children, with a happy ending for both Nina and her mum.
