We are proud to announce that Bone Talk, written by Candy Gourlay and published by David Fickling Books, has been shortlisted for the CILIP Carnegie Medal 2019! The judges have said:
Powerful, often poetic writing immerses the reader in an authentic sense of a different time and culture and wonderfully evokes the physicality of a very different place. At the same time very relatable characters and universal themes of coming of age and fear of the different make this a gripping historical adventure. Well researched, convincing and written with respect, this is a book that takes the reader on a memorable journey and stays in the mind for a long time.
The full shortlist is available here.
Bone Talk was also shortlisted for the Costa Children’s Book Award 2018. It has been endorsed by Amnesty International and received widespread critical acclaim:
‘Gourlay’s evocative writing grips from the outset’ Guardian
‘dealing with themes of imperialism and masculinity that resonate strongly today’ Observer
‘opens our minds to a little-known corner of history through Samkad’s authentic, transfixing voice. Very special’ The Times
‘shows us a moment of change, as two worlds meet’ Sunday Times – Children’s Book of the Week
‘A fantastic book’ Patrice Lawrence, author
‘Utterly engrossing. This sumptuously realised, age-old story of colonisation transports in time, culture, landscape and history’ Sita Brahmachari, author
‘brings to life with passionate clarity the moment when an ancient culture comes head to head with a brutal colonial invasion’ Elizabeth Laird, author
