IBC Awards 2025 longlist: Children’s Fiction (5-9)

Read our expert reviews of the inclusive chapter books for ages 5 to 9 that made it onto the IBC Awards 2025 longlist!

These five wonderfully diverse kids’ books represent some of the best inclusive children’s fiction published over the last year, from UK-based authors and illustrators.

5+years

Nikhil and Jay: Flying High

Author: Chitra SoundarIllustrator: Soofiya

Four charming stories featuring a special sibling bond!

South Asian representation
Mixed-heritage representation
Diverse cast
Own Voice

5+years

Destiny Ink: Sleepover Surprise

Author and illustrator: Adeola Sokunbi

Excitement and nerves fizz from the pages as Destiny prepares for her first sleepover, but what about the night-time monsters?

Own Voice
Black representation
Female lead

6+years

Keisha Jones Is a Force of Nature

Author: Natalie DennyIllustrator: Chanté Timothy

Keisha Jones and the Bee Squad stand tall and proud to protect neighbourhood trees from the chop.

Own Voice
Black representation
Mixed-heritage representation
Black/brown representation
Challenges gender stereotypes

6+years

Marv and the Humongous Hamster

Author: Alex Falase-KoyaIllustrator: Paula Bowles

This delightfully entertaining, action-packed superhero adventure, with animal mayhem and gadgets, will enthral newly independent readers and Marv fans alike.