These are the books shortlisted for the Tir na n-Og Awards 2022.
The winning titles in each category will be announced on 20 May on the Radio Wales Arts Show (English-language) and on 2 June at the Urdd Eisteddfod in Denbighshire (Welsh-language).
WELSH LANGUAGE PRIMARY CATEGORY
Gwil Garw a’r Carchar Crisial, Huw Aaron (Broga, 2021)
A book full of humour, imaginative events, special monsters, and a main character who can somehow survive all misery and disorder.
Sara Mai a Lleidr y Neidr, Casia Wiliam (Y Lolfa, 2021)
A story that grips the reader from the outset; the writing is skilful, well proportioned and has an easy humour.
Gwag y Nos, Sioned Wyn Roberts (Atebol, 2021)
An action-packed story that captivates the reader from the first few paragraphs, and captures the alien world of the workhouse subtly and compellingly.
WELSH LANGUAGE SECONDARY CATEGORY
Hanes yn y Tir, Elin Jones (Gwasg Carreg Gwalch, 2021)
A beautiful book that, in its simplicity of presentation and language, makes complex history accessible to the reader.
Y Pump, ed. Elgan Rhys (Y Lolfa, 2021) A collection of challenging and experimental stories that inverweave into one complete composition.
Fi ac Aaron Ramsey, Manon Steffan Ros (Y Lolfa, 2021)
A contemporary and gripping novel that presents real characters of flesh and blood that can resonate with today’s young readers.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE CATEGORY
Welsh Fairy Tales, Myths and Legends by Claire Fayers (Scholastic, 2021)
‘A beautiful book packed full of wonderful, intriguing and exciting stories of Welsh fairy tales, myths and legends, retold with great warmth and full of humour.’
10 Stories from Welsh History that everyone should know by Ifan Morgan Jones (Illustrations by Telor Gwyn) (Dragon Press, 2021)
‘A wonderful introduction to 10 key figures and events in the history of our country, with information presented in a very accessible and readable style, with eye-catching illustrations.’
Swan Song by Gill Lewis (Barrington Stoke Ltd, 2021)
‘A beautiful and emotive book about the healing power of nature that, despite its lyrical and elegant gentleness, has a powerful message of hope and recovery.’
The Valley of Lost Secrets by Lesley Parr (Bloomsbury Publishing Ltd, 2021)
‘A gripping wartime drama set in the south Wales valleys, full of mystery and intrigue, but also kindness and friendship.’
