Faber and Andlyn announce the opening of the FAB Prize for undiscovered writers and illustrators from underrepresented backgrounds.

The prize, the first of its kind in the UK, is now in its sixth year. The FAB Prize aims to discover and showcase new talent, closing the gap between what is currently published and the reality for many families.

Aspiring authors and illustrators can now send in text or illustrations. The entries will be judged by Faber’s Publisher Leah Thaxton, Andlyn Literary Agent Davinia Andrew-Lynch, Faber Creative Director Donna Payne, Faber Children’s Art Director Emma Eldridge, author and founder of Storymix Jasmine Richards and two new judges this year: Faber Children’s Assistant Editor Ama Badu and Faber’s Editorial Assistant Mo Hafeez.

Mo Hafeez, FAB Prize judge says: ‘Children’s books are truly for anyone and everyone, regardless of ethnicity, gender or age, inspiring us to see and think about the world and our place within it in imaginative and exciting ways. It’s incredible to see FAB alumni going on to become true champions of authentic, inclusive and engaging storytelling, and I can’t wait to see all the wonderful entries from the next generation of illustrators and writers of colour across the country.’

Alumni of the prize include many bestselling and award-winning authors and illustrators including Rashmi Sirdeshpande, Kereen Getten, Poonam Mistry, Yvonne Battle-Felton, Michael Mann, Jasbinder Bilan, Hannah Lee and Allen Fatimaharan. In addition, more than fifty FAB alumni now have agents.

The FAB Prize is proud to be supported by BookTrust and the AOI who both offer opportunities to entrants. Since its launch, the FAB Prize website, a hub for aspiring writers, illustrators and publishing professionals, now features interviews with an incredible roster of talented creatives such as New York Times bestselling author Namina Forna, Annabelle Sami, Shirley Marr and many more.

For full entry criteria on the prize visit the website. Shortlisted authors and illustrators will be contacted directly, and the winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony in October.

The competition closes for entries on 17th June 2022.