Five books have been shortlisted for The Alligator’s Mouth Award 2022, which champions both authors and illustrators of highly illustrated children’s fiction. Now in its fourth year, the children’s book prize created by The Alligator’s Mouth children’s bookshop and The Bright Agency, celebrates the best books for 6-8-year-olds. 
The shortlist was selected by a judging panel of children’s book experts, including award-winning author Joseph Elliott, who commented: “With all that's going on in the world right now, the power of books is more important than ever. Children's books entertain, inspire, and provide a safe space to escape to, which is often exactly what we need. The books on this list are exceptional, and it's a joy to be able to celebrate them all.” 
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The full shortlist for The Alligator’s Mouth Award 2022:
 
Bad Panda written by Swapna Haddow, illustrated by Sheena Dempsey, published by Faber Children’s. Paperback £6.99
Indigo Wilde and the Creatures at Jellybean Crescent written and illustrated by Pippa Curnick, published by Hodder Children’s Books. Paperback £5.99
Kate on the Case written and illustrated by Hannah Peck, published by Piccadilly Press. Paperback £6.99
Space Detectives written by Mark Powers, illustrated by Dapo Adeola, published by Bloomsbury. Paperback £6.99
The Girl Who Talked to Trees, written by Natasha Farrant, illustrated by Lydia Corry, published by Zephyr, Head of Zeus. Hardback £12.99
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Read more about the award on our Award page.