Celebrating the 2025 CBCA Book of the Year Winners
It’s that time of year when Australia’s most celebrated children’s books get their moment in the spotlight — and the 2025 Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book of the Year Awards have just been announced, marking the council’s 80th anniversary. These awards, often called “the Oscars for kids’ books,” recognise the best storytelling for young readers across six major categories, and this year’s winners bring a mix of heart, humour, and history.
One of the biggest feel-good stories comes from Darwin. House painter turned debut author Darren McCallum took home the Early Childhood award for The Wobbly Bike , a picture book inspired by a simple but charming moment. Years ago, McCallum removed the training wheels from his three-year-old daughter Summer’s bike. The next morning, she told him she was going to ride her “wobbly bike.” That phrase stuck in his mind, and years later became the title of a story about perseverance, kindness, and encouragement. Summer — now 15 — appears in the book as its determined main character, with her sister Jazzie as one of the supportive onlookers. Illustrated by the award-winning Craig Smith, the book also celebrates the special role grandparents can play in a child’s life.
For Older Readers, Gary Lonesborough’s I’m Not Really Here claimed the prize. This coming-of-age queer romance has been praised for its emotional honesty and representation, following in the footsteps of Lonesborough’s earlier acclaimed works.
Also Read:- High-Stakes Alaska Summit: Trump and Putin Face Off Over Ukraine War
- McDonald’s Japan Ends Pokémon Card Happy Meal Craze Amid Food Waste Uproar
In the Younger Readers category, Maryam Master’s Laughter is the Best Ending took top honours — and it’s not her only 2025 accolade. The book also won the Russell Prize for Humour Writing for Young People. Master, who came to Australia from Iran at age 10 without speaking English, described the win as a “full-circle moment,” remembering how she once sought out books with CBCA stickers in her school library. Her story follows Zee, a sharp, book-loving 13-year-old who reluctantly attends a five-day camp and unexpectedly discovers friendship, all while unplugged from the digital world.
The Picture Book of the Year went to The Truck Cat by Deborah Frenkel, with illustrations by Danny Snell. Inspired by a real-life stray cat that appeared at Frenkel’s door, the tale explores themes of migration, belonging, and home.
The Eve Pownall Award — which recognises outstanding information books — was awarded to Always Was, Always Will Be by Aunty Fay Muir and Sue Lawson, a powerful work rooted in Indigenous history and culture. Meanwhile, the CBCA Award for New Illustrator went to Sarah Capon for Grow Big, Little Seed , showcasing her delicate and detailed layered-paper art.
This year’s winners were chosen from a staggering 730 entries, judged by 15 experts, and even included a children’s choice element through the “Shadow Judging” program, with over 4,000 young readers participating.
From debut authors to seasoned storytellers, the 2025 CBCA winners prove that Australian children’s literature is thriving — telling stories that inspire, comfort, and connect readers of all ages.
Read More:
0 Comments