Winkleman to judge Book People's story prize

Claudia Winkleman has been unveiled as the head judge for Book People’s latest Bedtime Story competition with a theme of “friendship”. Broadcaster and children’s author Christian O’Connell and illustrator Alison Brown have also been announced as judges.

The nationwide competitions calls for children aged between five and 11 to create a picture book on the theme of friendship. The winner will become a published author, with their book illustrated by Brown, and published by Little Tiger Press.

The "Strictly Come Dancing" television presenter will host a live video event with Brown on The Book People’s Facebook page on 19th July, and will lead the judging panel that picks the overall competition winner.

The Bedtime Story competition is now in its second year, and follows the June publication of London schoolgirl Isabel Harris’ book, The Moon Man (Little Tiger), which was chosen from more than 1,000 entries last year. Since going on sale on 1st June, the title has also become the company's fastest selling of 2017 so far.

Winkleman said: “I’m delighted to be involved in The Book People’s fantastic Bedtime Story competition. I have always made a special effort to instil a love of books in my children, and encourage their imagination and creativity through reading and writing.

"This competition is a brilliant chance for children to let their imaginations run wild and immerse themselves in a fun and exciting project."

O’Connell said that having his children’s book published was an "amazing moment" in his career "so to be able to be involved in helping a budding young author have their work come to life makes this a brilliant project to be a part of,” he said.

The competition has launched today (10th July) with entries open until 2nd October this year. For more information, visit thebookpeople.co.uk/bedtimestory.