Klaus Flugge Prize 2026 Shortlist
The shortlist for the highly regarded Klaus Flugge Prize has been announced. Established in 2016, the Klaus Flugge Prize is awarded to the most promising and exciting newcomer to children’s picture book illustration and was set up to honour Klaus Flugge, founder of Andersen Press and a hugely influential figure in the world of children’s publishing.
Now in its eleventh year, the £5,000 prize is the only one specifically to recognise a published picture book by a debut illustrator.
From a longlist of 18, the panel of judges have chosen six to shortlist and praised the illustrators for their skill and originality and for the inventiveness of their storytelling.
Their books’ subjects are very varied, and topics include a magical island that finds a way to slow down its residents; a dog creating amazing artwork from materials he has to hand; seven very active little babies; a family constantly on the move; and a little girl finding ways to cope when her parents separate. There is also an information picture book on the list, telling the true story of Ferdinand Magellan and his epic journey.
The shortlisted books are:
The Great Green Island written and illustrated by Becky Colvin (Macmillan)
We Are Like Birds illustrated and written by Laila Ekboir (Kumusha Books)
The Voyage that Changed the World illustrated and written by Thekla Priebst (Quarto)
Henry the Artistic Dog illustrated and written by Justin Worsley (Andersen Press)
Seven Babies illustrated and written by Forest Xiao (Walker Books)
Our Dance illustrated and written by Circle Yuen (Graffeg)
Chair of the judges Julia Eccleshare says: “It feels very fitting that the Klaus Flugge Prize is entering its second decade during the National Year of Reading. Reading starts with picture books, and our shortlist demonstrates both the extraordinary range and quality of new books available for the youngest readers, and the talent being nurtured on courses and by publishers. Huge thanks to Klaus Flugge for supporting this important award and for highlighting emerging illustrators. We’re pleased that the shortlist features illustrators from across the world, proof that illustration is a universal language.”
The winner will be announced at an award ceremony at the Art Workers’ Guild, London on Wednesday 9 September 2026.
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