News for Kids

A book for youth by PM Narendra Modi

In a first-of-its-kind initiative by a serving prime minister, Narendra Modi will write a book dedicated to the youth. In this book, he will address core issues like overcoming examination stress, keeping one’s composure and even what to do after the exams are over. The book will be published by Penguin Random House (PRH) India in multiple languages and out in book stores later this year. Bluekraft Digital Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation, will be the technology and knowledge partner for the book.

First Little, Brown Emerging Artist Award announced

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers has announced Jin Xiaojing as the winner of the first Little, Brown Emerging Artist Award. This initiative seeks promising new talent and encourages the development of high-quality picture books that resonate with readers of diverse backgrounds and experiences. The program will provide Xiaojing with a valuable day of mentorship by acclaimed illustrator Jerry Pinkney and children’s book professionals, and a monetary prize. Submissions to the Little, Brown Emerging Artist Award were judged based on the quality of their text, art, and storytelling; the manner in which they supported the award’s diversity mission; and the originality and creativity of their work.

Xiaojing’s picture book manuscript, I Miss My Grandpa, is a thoughtful exploration of family lineage. It tells the autobiographical story of a young girl who never met her deceased grandfather but who yearns to understand the influence his life still has on her and her family. The poignant story is told in both English and Mandarin Chinese. To depict this promising story for young readers, Xiaojing used a striking mix of media, including watercolor, marker, acrylic, colored pencil, and ink, which were applied with a variety of tools, including paintbrush, pen, sponge, and comb.

Hamilton: The Revolution named Audiobook of the Year

Hamilton: The Revolution, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeremy McCarter – and read by the authors with Mariska Hargitay – won the highest designation of Audiobook of the Year by Audio Publishers Association. Competition in this category included titles by Amy Schumer, Carly Simon, Colson Whitehead, and Shonda Rhimes. James Patterson’s Cross Justice, read by Ruben Santiago-Hudson and Jefferson Mays, was named the best Thriller/ Suspense audiobook of the past year.

Best Mystery audiobook went to Michael Connelly’s The Crossing, read by Titus Welliver (who also plays the eponymous detective in the television series Bosch). Cressida Cowell’s How To Fight A Dragon’s Fury was awarded Best Middle Grade listen, adding to the honors this final title in the How To Train Your Dragon series has claimed, which include a Parents’ Choice Gold award and a nod from the National Parenting Product Awards.