{"title":"Costa and Whitbread Book Award winners","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Costa Book Awards, called the Whitbread Book Awards from 1971 to 2005, honoured books by authors based in the UK and Ireland. In their final form they had five categories (First Novel, Novel, Biography, Poetry and Children's Book), and each year one category winner was named Costa Book of the Year; the awards were discontinued in 2022, so the 2021 awards were the last.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis page lists 9 category winners, including \u003ca href=\"\/en-eu\/products\/9780099575450\"\u003eH is for Hawk\u003c\/a\u003e (Costa Book of the Year 2014), \u003ca href=\"\/en-eu\/products\/9780008172145\"\u003eEleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine\u003c\/a\u003e (First Novel Award 2017) and \u003ca href=\"\/en-eu\/products\/9780340944950\"\u003eSkellig\u003c\/a\u003e (Whitbread Children's Book of the Year 1998).\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"9780340944950","title":"Skellig","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSkellig\u003c\/strong\u003e is a poignant tale woven by David Almond, exploring the profound themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. Set against the backdrop of a dreary new home, the story follows young Michael as he grapples with the challenges of moving and the distress of his baby sister's illness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Plot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichael's feelings of isolation intensify until he stumbles upon a remarkable creature in the depths of his garage. This enigmatic being, a fusion of owl and angel, bears the name Skellig. As Michael navigates his worries about his sister, he forms an unlikely bond with Mina, a spirited girl who shares his sense of wonder. Together, they embark on a journey to care for Skellig, nurturing him back to health while confronting their own fears and uncertainties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThemes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFriendship:\u003c\/strong\u003e The connection between Michael and Mina exemplifies the healing power of companionship.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHope and Healing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Skellig serves as a symbol of hope, reminding the characters and readers alike of the strength found in vulnerability.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e The strain of Michael’s sister’s illness reflects the complexities of familial bonds and the struggle to maintain hope in the face of adversity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eLiterary Merit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlmond's lyrical prose invites readers into a world where the fantastical intertwines seamlessly with the everyday. His ability to evoke deep emotions through simple yet profound storytelling makes \u003cstrong\u003eSkellig\u003c\/strong\u003e a captivating read for both young and adult audiences alike. Fans of magical realism, such as those who enjoyed \u003cstrong\u003eThe Boy Who Drew Cats\u003c\/strong\u003e by the same author or \u003cstrong\u003eThe Ocean at the End of the Lane\u003c\/strong\u003e by Neil Gaiman, will find resonance within these pages.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n    \"A beautifully crafted story that speaks to the heart.\" \n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e","brand":"Hachette Children's Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53477685002572,"sku":"9780340944950","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0960\/4163\/2076\/files\/9780340944950_front.webp?v=1765278401"},{"product_id":"9781405277037","title":"Coram Boy","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoram Boy\u003c\/strong\u003e by Jamila Gavin is a gripping tale set in 18th-century England, where the harsh realities of life and the darkness of human nature intertwine. The novel follows the harrowing journey of a man known as the Coram man, who preys on desperate mothers by deceitfully offering to take their babies to the Foundling Hospital in London. However, his true intentions are sinister, as he murders the unfortunate infants and buries them in secrecy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Plot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmidst the turmoil, we meet Mish, the Coram man's mentally ill son, who becomes an unwilling witness to his father's atrocities. In a moment of compassion, Mish manages to rescue one baby, Aaron, who grows up ignorant of his horrifying origins. As he matures, Aaron discovers his extraordinary talent for music, which becomes both a refuge and a means of self-discovery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the narrative unfolds, the lives of Aaron and his friend Toby become dangerously intertwined with Mish and the Coram man's dark legacy. A critical mistake made by Mish sets in motion a chain of events that threatens both Aaron and Toby, forcing them to confront the haunting shadows of their past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThemes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eThe struggle for identity and belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eThe impact of mental illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eThe moral complexities of human nature\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eFriendship and loyalty amidst adversity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n    \"A powerful exploration of the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit.\"\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith its rich historical backdrop and poignant character development, \u003cstrong\u003eCoram Boy\u003c\/strong\u003e resonates with themes found in other works by Gavin, as well as in novels like \u003cem\u003eOliver Twist\u003c\/em\u003e by Charles Dickens and \u003cem\u003eThe Secret Garden\u003c\/em\u003e by Frances Hodgson Burnett. This novel challenges readers to reflect on the darker aspects of humanity while celebrating the strength that can emerge from suffering.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins Publishers","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53477786845516,"sku":"9781405277037","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0960\/4163\/2076\/files\/9781405277037_front.webp?v=1765285548"},{"product_id":"9780008172145","title":"Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine\u003c\/strong\u003e is a poignant and darkly humorous exploration of loneliness, human connection, and the power of kindness. Set in Glasgow, the story follows the socially awkward yet endearing Eleanor Oliphant, whose life is marked by rigid routines and a self-imposed isolation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Plot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor's existence is turned upside down when a chance encounter with a stranger leads her on a transformative journey. As she grapples with her past—filled with trauma and emotional scars—she begins to dismantle the walls she has built around herself. Through unexpected friendships and moments of vulnerability, Eleanor learns to navigate the complexities of social interactions and the importance of caring for oneself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThemes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIsolation and Connection:\u003c\/strong\u003e The novel delves into the impact of solitude on mental health and the profound effects of human connection.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eResilience:\u003c\/strong\u003e Eleanor's journey is one of personal growth, showcasing the strength it takes to confront one's demons.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKindness:\u003c\/strong\u003e A central theme is the ripple effect of small acts of kindness, which can have life-changing consequences.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n    \"Eleanor Oliphant is a character whose quirks and idiosyncrasies will resonate with anyone who has ever felt out of place.\"\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eReaders who enjoyed \u003cstrong\u003eThe Rosie Project\u003c\/strong\u003e by Graeme Simsion or \u003cstrong\u003eA Man Called Ove\u003c\/strong\u003e by Fredrik Backman will find Eleanor's story equally captivating, as it blends humour with profound emotional insights. The novel’s engaging writing style and richly developed characters invite readers to reflect on their own lives while offering a glimpse into the transformative power of connection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins Publishers","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52950687875404,"sku":"9780008172145","price":8.3,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0960\/4163\/2076\/files\/9780008172145_3d_front.jpg?v=1758062531"},{"product_id":"9780747562283","title":"Poor Things","description":"\u003cp\u003eGodwin Baxter, a scientist, resurrects the beautiful Bella after finding her drowned body. His ambition to create the perfect companion leads to complications when Dr. Archibald McCandless, envious of her existence, becomes involved. The narrative explores Bella's perspective as she navigates her new life and the desires of those around her. Set against the backdrop of late-Victorian Glasgow, the story takes readers through various locations including aristocratic casinos and Parisian bordellos, culminating in a dramatic moment in a Scottish church.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bloomsbury Publishing PLC","offers":[{"title":"Paperback \/ softback","offer_id":52951477125452,"sku":"9780747562283","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0960\/4163\/2076\/files\/9780747562283_front.webp?v=1765281967"},{"product_id":"9781509894963","title":"The Skylarks' War","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Skylarks' War\u003c\/strong\u003e is a poignant exploration of childhood innocence disrupted by the harsh realities of adulthood and war. Set against the stunning backdrop of Cornwall, the story follows Clarry and her elder brother Peter as they enjoy idyllic summers with their cousin Rupert. These carefree days quickly give way to the trials of boarding school and the complexities of family life as autumn descends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Plot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the spectre of World War One looms ever closer, the lives of the three cousins are irrevocably altered. The narrative delicately weaves together themes of \u003cstrong\u003elove\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eloss\u003c\/strong\u003e, and the painful journey of growing up. The departure of Rupert to the front lines serves as a catalyst for Clarry's internal struggles. She must confront the shifting dynamics of her relationships and the uncertainties brought about by war.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThemes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis novel poignantly addresses the impact of conflict on personal lives and relationships. Through Clarry's eyes, readers experience the heart-wrenching reality of separation, the anxieties of adolescence, and the bittersweet nature of memory. The author’s lyrical prose captures the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences of \u003cstrong\u003echange\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eresilience\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSimilar Works\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReaders who appreciated \u003cstrong\u003eGoodnight Mister Tom\u003c\/strong\u003e by Michelle Magorian or \u003cstrong\u003eThe War That Saved My Life\u003c\/strong\u003e by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley may find \u003cstrong\u003eThe Skylarks' War\u003c\/strong\u003e equally compelling, as it resonates with similar themes of courage and the transformative power of war on youth.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Pan Macmillan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53481896575308,"sku":"9781509894963","price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0960\/4163\/2076\/files\/9781509894963_front.webp?v=1765290982"},{"product_id":"9781408882191","title":"The Explorer","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Explorer\u003c\/strong\u003e by Katherine Rundell invites readers into a thrilling tale of survival and self-discovery set against the backdrop of the Amazon jungle. When Fred's dream of becoming an explorer takes an unexpected turn after a plane crash, he finds himself thrust into a world far removed from his expectations. Alongside three other children—each with their own fears and dreams—they must navigate the perils of the wilderness while relying on their wits and each other.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Plot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStranded in an untamed landscape, the children face myriad challenges, from finding food and shelter to confronting the lurking dangers of the jungle. As they work together, they stumble upon remnants of previous explorers, which leads them to question the history of the land and their own place within it. 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Following the sudden death of her beloved father, Macdonald is engulfed in sorrow and seeks solace through the training of a goshawk, a bird of prey known for its fierce temperament and formidable hunting skills. This memoir delves deeply into the complex relationship between human and nature, exploring themes of loss, love, and the quest for identity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Story\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMacdonald's narrative is not just a recounting of her experiences with the hawk, but a poignant exploration of her father's influence on her life and the profound impact of grief. As she immerses herself in the discipline of falconry, Macdonald reflects on her childhood, the bonds of family, and the ways in which nature can both heal and challenge us. The juxtaposition of her personal journey with the historical context of falconry enriches the narrative, offering insights into the human condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Readers Love It\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eMacdonald's lyrical prose captivates and evokes vivid imagery of the natural world.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eThe seamless blend of memoir and nature writing creates a deeply immersive experience.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eReaders appreciate the introspective examination of grief and healing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePerfect For\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis memoir resonates with those who enjoy reflective writing and the exploration of human relationships with nature. 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This biography captures the essence of a man whose brilliance was matched only by his peculiarities, offering a profound insight into the mind of a genius.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Story\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFarmelo paints a vivid portrait of Dirac, exploring his early years, his academic journey, and the revolutionary ideas that led to the formulation of the Dirac Equation. Through meticulous research and compelling narrative, the author reveals Dirac's complex personality, marked by a remarkable intensity and a deep-seated passion for physics. The book also highlights the often-overlooked aspects of his life, including his relationships with contemporaries such as Einstein and Heisenberg, and the challenges he faced as a scientist in a rapidly changing world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Readers Love It\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEngaging Narrative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Farmelo's storytelling is rich and immersive, drawing readers into the scientific and personal dimensions of Dirac's life.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIn-Depth Research:\u003c\/strong\u003e The biography is a product of extensive research, offering a well-rounded view of Dirac’s contributions and character.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThemes of Isolation and Genius:\u003c\/strong\u003e The book explores the themes of isolation that often accompany genius, presenting a nuanced view of the balance between personal life and professional brilliance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePerfect For\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eReaders interested in the history of science and influential figures in physics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eFans of biographies that provide deep psychological insights into their subjects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eThose who appreciated Farmelo’s previous works, such as \u003cstrong\u003eChurchill’s Bomb\u003c\/strong\u003e, will find this biography equally enlightening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e“A remarkable exploration of one of the 20th century's most intriguing scientific minds.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e","brand":"Faber \u0026 Faber","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56229869748556,"sku":"9780571222865","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0960\/4163\/2076\/files\/9780571222865_968d6524-4bf6-430f-9a1c-d8569b3ed263.webp?v=1765697988"},{"product_id":"9780099539551","title":"The Hare With Amber Eyes","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Hare With Amber Eyes\u003c\/strong\u003e is a profound exploration of art, family, and the intricacies of memory, woven through the lens of a single family heirloom—the exquisite collection of Japanese netsuke. Through the eyes of renowned ceramicist Edmund de Waal, this narrative embarks on a journey that traverses time and geography, from the opulent salons of late 19th-century Europe to the shadows of the Second World War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Story\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book illuminates the life of de Waal’s great-uncle, a Jewish banker in Vienna, and chronicles the turbulent history of the netsuke as they pass through generations. As de Waal delves into his family’s past, he uncovers the rich tapestry of their lives, marked by cultural upheaval, personal loss, and the enduring power of art. The netsuke serve not only as a physical link to his ancestry but also as a metaphor for the fragility of heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Readers Love It\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eDe Waal's lyrical prose captures the beauty of both the objects and the stories they tell.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eThe intertwining of personal and historical narratives offers a unique perspective on identity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eReaders appreciate the seamless blend of memoir and art history, making it both enlightening and poignant.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePerfect For\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book resonates with those who cherish literary works that delve into personal histories, as well as fans of \u003cstrong\u003eThe Pot Book\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eFamily History\u003c\/strong\u003e, where de Waal's passion for ceramics and storytelling converge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n    \"A remarkable meditation on art and identity.\" \n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e","brand":"Vintage Publishing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56258276852044,"sku":"9780099539551","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0960\/4163\/2076\/files\/9780099539551_785895a8-9d5d-4177-9dd1-1a316162664b.webp?v=1765942895"}],"url":"https:\/\/foxandfable.com\/en-eu\/collections\/costa-and-whitbread-award-books.oembed","provider":"Fox \u0026 Fable UK","version":"1.0","type":"link"}