Royal Society Young People’s Book Prize shortlist announced

The Royal Society has today announced the six inspiring science books that make up this year’s Young People’s Books Prize shortlist.

Publishers across the UK have submitted their best recent science books for young people to the 2014 Royal Society Young People’s Book Prize and now an expert adult judging panel has narrowed them down to six carefully selected books.

The winning book will now be selected entirely by groups of young people from over 100 schools and youth groups across the UK.  These groups will judge all the shortlisted books and choose the final winner.

Shortlist:

What makes you YOU, by Gill Arbuthnott (A&C Black - an imprint of Bloomsbury)

The judges said: “This book takes a contemporary look at genetics, telling the story behind some of the key discoveries and scientists in the field. It has a great narrative, and discusses some of the topical issues of today.”

How animals live, by Christiane Dorion (Templar Publishing)

The judges said: “We love this pop-up book showing a range of different habitats and the animals that live in them. Beautifully presented, this is a lovely introduction to ecosystems around the planet.”

Eye Benders: the science of seeing and believing, by Clive Gifford & Anil Seth (Ivy Kids)

The judges said: “Warning: this book will try to trick you! It is full of optical illusions you can try for yourself, and we love how interactive this is. What this book does really well is explain each trick of the eye through the science behind it. Both fascinating and fun.”

We've Got Your Number, by Mukul Patel (Kingfisher)

The judges said: “Maths is all around us, and this book has great way of presenting this. Mathematical concepts are explained through their application, and the authors' passion for the subject really shines through.”

The Usborne Big Book of Stars and Planets, by Emily Bone (Usborne)

The judges said: “This book is jam-packed full of information about the Universe, from the Solar System to distant galaxies. The eye-catching illustrations are beautifully done, and are based on real astronomical images. This book really conveys the wonders of our Universe.”

Usborne Lift-the-Flap Questions and Answers about Your Body, by Katie Daynes (Usborne)

The judges said: “This bite-sized Q&A book with informative illustrations is sure to satisfy inquisitive minds, answering the kinds of questions young children have about their bodies in a fun lift-the-flap style.”

The winner will be announced in November 2014.