Tower Hamlets Book Award 2024

The Books!

Canary Wharf Group have kindly supported the 2024 award by funding a free set of the shortlist for all subscribing schools. These will be with you in September!

Extra sets of the shortlist are now SOLD OUT

City of Stolen Magic. Pathak, Nazneen Ahmed

In 1855 India, under British rule, people born with magic are disappearing. When Chompa’s mother, Ammi, is kidnapped, Chompa enlists the help of Ammi’s friend Mohsin to find her. Their search takes them from rural India to London’s East End, where they uncover a plot by businessman Sir Clive Devaynes to exploit magic for power and wealth.

The Twig Man. Rasoul, Sana

A year has passed since Ari’s older sister, Lana, vanished. But Ari knows the truth: she was taken by the Twig Man, a terrifying creature lurking in the woods for a century. With no one believing him, Ari takes it upon himself to rescue Lana before it’s too late. However, time is running out as Ari finds himself next on the Twig Man’s sinister list.

Safiyyah’s War Khan, Hiba Noor

As war approaches Europe, Safiyyah’s life in Paris at the Grand Mosque remains peaceful. However, as the conflict encroaches, the city undergoes drastic changes: refugees arrive, wealthy Parisians leave, and German soldiers impose restrictions. Safiyyah observes the worsening conditions and discovers signs of rebellion within her community. Despite the risks, she resolves to take action.

The Final Year. Goodfellow, Matt ; Todd-Stanton, Joe

Ten-year-old Nate lives with his mum and younger brothers, Jax and Dylan. Nate’s best friend PS is moved to a different class, leaving Nate upset. Nate’s nemesis, Turner, becomes friends with PS, adding to Nate’s frustration. However, Nate finds solace in writing, encouraged by his teacher Mr. Joshua. When Dylan falls ill and is hospitalized, Nate’s world is shaken, and he must navigate his emotions and fears.

The Song Walker. Bethell, Zillah

In the heart of the desert, a young girl awakens with no memory of her identity, clad in a singular shoe and a mysterious black dress, clutching a heavy case. She encounters Tarni, who is embarking on her own enigmatic journey. As they traverse the expansive Australian Outback, seeking answers, they must confront not only the mysteries of their pasts but also the secrets they carry within themselves.

Steady for this. Lessore, Nathanael

Shaun (aka MC Growls) is ready to drop his best bars and smash the competition at Raptology. That way, he’s convinced Tanisha, his crush, will finally give him a chance. But when a livestream practice goes epically wrong, Growls’s dirty laundry is literally exposed. He’s finally achieved his dreams of going viral – not in the good way.

Finn Jones was here. Green, Simon James

Eric’s best friend, Finn Jones, was the world’s biggest prankster. Now Eric can’t believe Finn’s not here anymore. …Or is he?

Eric seems to be getting messages from beyond the grave, and as he follows Finn’s wild, cryptic instructions, his hope grows that he’ll find Finn laughing at the end.

The journey also brings memories – and a truth that seems impossible to accept.

Follow us on Twitter (@thsls) and Insta/ Threads (@towerhamletssls). #thba 

We’re looking forward to another great finale event, with more performances, quizzes and competitions!

• Venue:Genesis Cinema, Stepney Green.
• Date and time: Friday 29th November. 10:30am to 1pm/ 1:30pm

With guest authors

• Simon James Green
• Sana Rasoul
• Matt Goodfellow
• Nazneen Ahmed Pathak
• Nathanael Lessore

Bookshop on the day

Brick Lane Books will be holding a book stall on the day selling books by the shortlisted authors (10% discount on cover price). If you’d like to pre-order books, please contact Brick Lane books directly Home – Brick Lane Bookshop.

Presentation Competition

Up to 8 schools can enter the presentation competition. Prizes and prestige to be won!

The Genesis means that we’ve got our biggest stage and screen ever to present your work!

If you wish to present a book at the finale there will be an option to register on the finale booking form.

• Prepare a short performance or presentation around one of the shortlisted books
• Past performances have included acting and dramatisation, discussions, alternate scenes/ endings, film trailers, animation and more!
• As usual, schools will be allocated slots in the competition on a first come-first served basis as they confirm which book they are presenting, and as long as this book has not already been chosen by too many other schools (all 7 books should have at least 1 presentation each).
• let the Schools Library Service know which book you’re championing (preferably as soon as possible to ensure your choice of book!). If your book is already fully booked (pun intended), you’ll be asked to choose an alternative, so it’s good to have a reserve title in mind.
• Presentations will be judged by our guest authors on the group’s ability to deliver their presentation in an entertaining, interesting and exciting way that will appeal to a pupil audience and inspire pupils to read their chosen book.
• Performances must last no more than 4 minutes.