The Narrative Navigators

Birdie
When I read this book, it took me back to when I was younger reading similar books because it was so fun and easy to read and follow. There were some more exciting moments and some heartwarming ones which meant that overall it was a well-rounded book with a bit of something for everyone. The author has written this book in such a way that you feel as if you are in the moment with the characters too which is naturally a sign of a good book. Also, I loved the characters and the way they were written and how even though I live in the different world I could relate to the them in some sections of the book.

Lena

Wolf Siren
I liked "Wolf Wilder", I thought that even though it was rooted in the classic fairytale, it gave all the characters much more depth, meaning, and purpose and thus making it seem more like an original story than a spin-off. I particularly loved how O'Brien made the protagonist, Red, visually impaired, firstly since it made sense given the plot of the original tale, but also since authors typically craft ‘fully blind’ characters and I thought it was a great deliberate choice to raise awareness about this and that it had personal meaning and resonance for O’Brien too. However, I was initially confused about the ending because it didn’t provide enough clarity at first, and I had to go back and re-read it to fully comprehend what had happened. Nevertheless, overall, it was atmospheric, maturely dealt with stereotypes regarding women and I loved the twist on the classic folk tale.

Cianna

Ghostlines 
I liked this book- it was wholesome, and the characters were adventurous. I liked how the main character had had something happen in her life that affected her badly (her brother leaving), and how it was explained and resolved in the end. However, I thought the book was a bit too predictable and the plot wasn't deep enough for me.

Hania

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
“Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody” is probably one of the most controversial reads I have come across since starting Carnegie. It is truly a wildly imaginative novel with a lot of heart and humour. Whilst the characters themselves seem a little unconventional, I still think the narrative tackles heavy, real-world themes, like bullying and neurodiversity, with necessary maturity. For me initially, the themes weren’t properly received, likely due to the style and the humour being almost overwhelming and the main focal point of the story. However, I appreciate that Ness hasn’t conveyed these themes as ‘doom and gloom’, especially how that seems to be the only lens we naturally view them in and offers a more light-hearted and hopeful perspective. The characters, being actual animals with Ness interspersing true facts throughout the book, are hilarious and quirky, and it’s honestly a shame that I didn’t personally receive it well because it does have potential. This is a laugh-out-loud read that sadly, isn’t for me.

Cianna

Not Going To Plan
“Not Going to Plan” is such a well-crafted read that properly addresses the taboos around teenage pregnancy and consent, whilst telling it through such likeable characters. I genuinely loved getting to know each character’s personality and quirks (the Pikachu earmuffs!) and I think that since it was written in verse, it felt fast paced and easy to read, whilst still having that emotional appeal. Fisher said, ‘it was written as a conversation between Marnie and Zed’ and I think that was one of the most compelling elements for me: being able to watch the story unravel through two contrasting characters that both feel so necessary to fully tell the story, whilst the layout mimicked their chaotic, internal anxieties. At certain points, it felt like it was trying too hard to teach a lesson, rather than actually being plot essential. However, I feel that it was completely overshadowed by the humour of the dialogue and the raw, emotional depth of the characters and their dynamics. Fisher has written a powerful and realistic read about big societal issues through characters you inevitably fall in love with. One of the best reads and my favourite in Carnegie this year.

Cianna

Wolf Siren
This book was the last book I read and is my favourite book. At first I thought it was going to be another spinoff of red riding hood but it takes the roots of the classic story and branches out through amazing dialogues and creative characters. It also tackles stereotypes of how woman were required to be in the past.

Callum

Twenty Four Seconds from Now
This is by FAR the best book. The characters have such personality and all though I don't have a favourite, if I did it would definitely be Brina (Neon's mom). This is such an amazing book and the book I recommend the most.

Callum

Birdie
This book was one of the first books I read and I'm glad I read it first. This was an amazing read. The characters had personality and I would definitely recommend this to new Carnegie readers. I'm looking forward to seeing what the judges have to say about this great book.

Callum