This term, the school library and History Department have teamed up to introduce a new book review competition for pupils in Years 7 and 8. This exciting new challenge is inspired by the ‘Young Quills Award’, an annual prize run by the Historical Association for children and teens.

You can find out more about the award below, which recognises good historical fiction and encourage youngsters to explore other eras of history: https://www.history.org.uk/aboutus/news/4030/young‐quills‐2021‐the‐winners

The Emanuel competition:

Pupils are invited to write a 500‐700 word review on any of the books featured on previous Young Quills Award lists. These include a very wide range of novels for different age ranges. Check with Mr Jones (Librarian) if you need any assistance in choosing a book to review, which range from ages 10‐15.

If you need help choosing a book to review:

1. There is a PDF sheet, which includes many of the books (email Mr Jones tony.jones@emanuel.org.uk and he will forward it on) should you not have a copy.

2. You can also consult the www.history.org.uk website and look through the Young Quills section.

3. Use the Quick List option on the Accessit Library catalogue (Quills Historical Fiction) for the full list. Or here: https://uk.accessit.online/emn00 and then search for the Quick List I just mentioned.

Reviews should be 500 to 700 words and will be judged on the following criteria:

1. Your opinion on accuracy and level of historical detail portrayed in the novel.

2. The Importance setting plays in the story and other relevant historical observations.

3. What attracted you to this period in history?

4. What were the main strengths of the novel (plot, characters, pacing or ending for example?) and who would you recommend it to?

Deadline for submissions is 27th May. There is also a display of many of the relevant books in the Junior Library should you be looking for further inspiration.

Mr Jones (Senior Librarian)