Spark! 11+

The Spark! School Book Award aim to build excitement and enjoyment in reading in all schools. We believe that children should have access to a wide range of quality literature that both engages them and represents all readers from across our diverse communities. Above all else, we believe in the life-changing power of stories.

WINNER 2025

King of Nothing

Lessore, Nathanael ISBN: 9781471413247
Paperback / softback

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ANTON AND HIS FRIENDS ARE THE KINGS OF YEAR 9. They're used to ruling the school and Anton wears the crown. The other kids run away when he's about but that's the way he wants it - he's got a reputation to live up to after all. So when he gets into serious trouble at school, he doesn't really care, but his mum most definitely does. She decides it's time for Anton to make some new friends and join the Happy Campers, a local activity group. Anton would quite literally rather do anything else, especially when he finds out Matthew, the biggest loser in school, is also a member. But after Matthew unexpectedly saves Anton's life, Anton figures maybe this kid is worth a shot. Teaching him some game is the least Anton can do to repay the debt. As the boys strike up an unlikely friendship, Anton finds himself questioning everything he thought was important. Does he want ruling the school to be his crowning glory or should he set his sights on better things?

- Browns Books Synopsis

Shortlist 2026

Winter, Tamsin ISBN: 9781805075721
Paperback / softback

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Hogan, Bex ISBN: 9781035909315
Paperback / softback

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MacKenzie, Ross ISBN: 9781839133176
Paperback / softback

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Simpson, Darren ISBN: 9781782695721
Paperback / softback

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