Nathanael Lessore and his editors, Ella Whiddett and Ruth Bennett of Hot Key Books, won the 2024 Branford Boase Award for Steady For This. The award honors the author and editor(s) of a debut novel for young people. The author gets £1,000 (about $1,285) for the win, and he and the editors receive engraved trophies.
"Every book on this year's shortlist represents the very best of children's literature and shows how the publishing industry is adapting to the needs of children and young people today," said Christine Pillainayagam, the 2023 winner and a judge this year. "Despite strong competition, Steady for This was a unanimous winner. A bright, funny, moving story that felt joyful and fresh, we couldn't wait to read more of Nathanael's work."
Lessore said: "My publisher Hot Key Books and my editors Ella and Ruth have played the role of genie in a lamp granting wishes. The best thing about this award is that I get to share it with my genies. Together, we've produced a book that brings a smile to people's faces, and I will forever be grateful to the Branford Boase Award for choosing Steady for This as this year's winner."
Whiddett commented: "We knew Nate was a very special writer from the first page of this extraordinary story about an ordinary boy living and laughing through the growing pains of teenage-hood. Years after that first read, Steady for This continues to bring such joy to my life, so to be shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award with this book in particular was truly special."
Bennett added: "It's such an incredible honor for the editorial partnership between Nate, Ella and me to be recognized by the judges. Working on bringing Nate's unforgettable characters and unique storytelling skill to readers has been a satisfying and hugely enjoyable experience from start to finish."