The Otto Foundation takes great pleasure in announcing the two winners of their inaugural Children’s Book Award: Shoma and the Stars by Maya Wegerif and Katlego Keokgale in the picture book category, and Pearl of the Sea by Anthony Silverston, Raffaella Delle Donne and Willem Samuel in the chapter book/graphic novel category. The winning titles will receive prize money to the value of R25 000 each.
The winners were announced on the 12th of February at an awards ceremony held at The Book Lounge in Cape Town. The runners up for the prizes were also celebrated: Zandile Ndhlovu received special mention in the picture book category for her book Zandi’s Song, while Sally Partridge received the same distinction in the category for chapter books/graphic novels for her book Leo Jantjies and the Esports World Championship.
What makes The Otto Foundation’s book prize unique is that young readers play an active role in selecting the winning titles. Following a nomination process held last year, the shortlisted titles were included in the Otto Foundation’s annual Reading Relay, which is hosted every year among six schools in the District Six area in Cape Town.
The participating learners submitted reviews of the nominated books, and these reviews and ratings were considered in the final selection of the winners. The relay, which took place during October and November last year, received no less than 4430 book reviews in the picture book category (aimed at learners between the ages of 5 and 9) and 1632 reviews in the chapter book/graphic novel category (aimed at learners between the ages of 10 and 13).
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“It was a joy to engage with our shortlisted selection of books which covered fantasy, folklore, adventure, graphic novels and more.” – Pam Hoffman
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During the judging process, the judging panels considered the following criteria:
- authentic representation of South African culture, landscapes, people and traditions
- the creativity and originality of the story
- the quality of the writing and the illustrations
- the relevance to the target audience, and
- the celebration of diversity and inclusivity.
Pam Hoffman, convener of the judging panel for the chapter book/graphic novel category, is delighted by the quality of the winning title, Pearl of the Sea: “This is a fantastic book not only in terms of the magnificent illustrations, but also in the message of courage, kindness and unexpected friendship it tells.”
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The shortlisted pictures books celebrate the richness of South African storytelling through a vibrant mix of themes and beautiful illustrations. They highlight the creativity in South African children’s literature, proving that local stories are bold, imaginative, and full of heart. – Nonikiwe Mashologu
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Nonikiwe Mashologu, convener of the panel on picture books, says about the winner in this category: “Shoma and the Stars beautifully explores finding strength and joy even in difficult times. With fun, light, and vibrant illustrations, this story draws young readers into a world of wonder, hope, and self-discovery.”
The Otto Foundation Children’s Book Award was launched to support local publishers, celebrate quality storytelling and promote new authors and illustrators. The goal is also to encourage diversity in children’s literature and to celebrate uniquely South African stories.
Zephne Ladbrook, co-founder and chairperson of the Otto Foundation, motivates the establishment of this bi-annual award as follows: “Children's book awards play a crucial role in recognising and promoting high-quality literature that can shape young minds. By celebrating diverse voices and perspectives, these accolades help ensure that children have access to a wide range of meaningful and engaging books.”
Excerpts from learner reviews of the winner in the chapter book/graphic novel category, Pearl of the Sea:
- The middle part of the story is the best part as the pictures had so much energy and it was fun to read! – Michaellah, Grade 5
- My favourite part was when Pearl and her dad had the courage to go and save Otto, it was very mindful and caring. – Addijah, Grade 6
- I love everything about this book, it's the best! – Mdalo, Grade 5
Also, find selected drawings of the winning picture book, Shoma and the Stars by the younger learners who took part in the reading relay.
The Otto Foundation’s Children’s Book Prize will be awarded every second year. The next award will be announced in 2026. For more information about the Otto Foundation, or further details about the prize, visit www.ottofoundation.org.
See also:
Up-close South African insight: a review of Pearl of the sea
The "real" pearl of the sea: ’n Leser se indruk van die grafiese roman Pearl of the Sea