English Tir na n-Og
Where the Wilderness Lives
Jess ButterworthOrion Publishing 2021 9+ 9781510105508
Location: Ceredigion
Themes: Adventure – The environment – Family life – Magic
An epic race for survival that follows four children and their dog through treacherous waterways, dense forests and the deep, dark wilderness of Wales. A beautifully written adventure story in a vibrantly described setting. Shortlisted for the 2021 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Short Knife
Elen CaldecottAndersen Press Ltd 2021 14+ 9781783449781
Location: Gwent
Themes: Courage – Language – Survival – Identity
It's 454AD. The Roman Empire has withdrawn from Britain, throwing it into the chaos of the Dark Ages. Mai has been kept safe by her father and sister, but when Saxon warriors arrive, the family is forced to flee to the hills where British warlords hide. Can Mai survive in a dangerous world where speaking her mother tongue may prove deadly, and where she may be unable to trust her loved ones. 2021 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
The Valley of Lost Secrets
Lesley ParrBloomsbury Children's 2021 9+ 9781526620521
Location: Llanbryn - Inspired by Llanhiledd and the surrounding area
Themes: Mystery – Second World War – Evacuees – Brotherhood
September 1939. When Jimmy is evacuated to a small village in Wales, it couldn't be more different from London. Green, quiet and full of strangers, he instantly feels out of place. But then he finds a skull hidden in a tree, and suddenly the valley is more frightening than the war. Who can Jimmy trust? His brother is too little; his best friend has changed. Finding an ally in someone he never expects, they set out together to uncover the secrets that lie with the skull. What they discover will change Jimmy – and the village – forever. Winner of the 2022 Tir na n-Og Award.
Scholastic Classics: Welsh Fairy Tales, Myths and Legends
Claire FayersScholastic 2021 9+ 9780702305511
Themes: Myths and legends – Classics – Mabinogi
A collection of 18 Welsh fairy tales, myths and legends, from magical Welsh dragons that destroy a castle night after night, to a princess made out of flowers and a fairy changeling bother; from loyal hunting hound Gelert to a boy who asks questions and goes on to become the greatest Welsh bard ever known. Shortlisted for the 2022 Tir na n-Og Award.
Swan Song
Gill LewisBarrington Stoke 2021 9+ 9781781129548
Location: Inspired by the Loughor Estuary
Themes: Mental health – Nature – Family
After being excluded from school, Dylan is forced to move to a tiny village in Wales where his grandad – who Dylan hardly knows - lives. With no Xbox or internet, life is looking pretty bleak, but when Grandad takes Dylan out on his boat to see the whooper swans, things begin to change for the better. Shortlisted for the 2022 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Secret Dragon
Ed ClarkePuffin 2020 9+ 9780241360514
Location: Vale of Glamorgan
Themes: Family life – Finding your place – Dragons
Mari Jones is desperate to be a real scientist, even though she's only eleven. So when she discovers a tiny dragon while fossil hunting on the beach, she's sure she can find a good scientific explanation - as long as she can keep it hidden long enough to study it. Shorlisted for the 2020 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Quilt
Valériane LeblondY Lolfa 2020 4+ 9781784618087
Themes: Migration – Family – Home
A beautifully illustrated story about migration and homesickness. Around 1900, a family leaves Wales in search of a better life in the USA, where their homemade quilt proves a great comfort. Shortlisted for the 2021 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Rugby Zombies
Dan AnthonyPont@Lolfa 2019 (First published 2010) 4+ 9781848511675
Themes: Rugby – Afterlife zombies – Family
A humorous story about a boy arranging a rugby game for zombies. Arwel's ambition is to add his picture to the family collection on the mantelpiece - and he has a plan - a photo of him playing for the school rugby team should do the trick! However, an unfortunate incident leading to their defeat on the rugby field means his chances aren't high.
Max Kowalski Didn’t Mean It
Susie DayPenguin 2019 9+ 9780241351390
Location: Snowdonia
Themes: Adventure – Crime – Bereavement – Family life
The problem with Wales, he thought, was that it was too far away. But that was the point. To leave Southend behind. To get so far that no one would think to look for them there. Shortlisted for the 2020 Tir na n-Og Award.
Storm Hound
Claire FayersMacmillan Children's Books 2019 9+ 9781509895045
Location: Abergavenny
Themes: Myths and legends – Animals – Family life
Storm of Odin is the youngest stormhound of the Wild Hunt that haunts lightning-filled skies. He has longed for the time when he will be able to join his brothers and sisters but on his very first hunt he finds he can't keep up and falls to earth, landing on the A40 just outside Abergavenny. 2020 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Where Magic Hides
Cat WeatherillPont@Lolfa 2019 9+ 9781785622991
Themes: Myths and legends – Magic – The supernatural
In this diverse collection of short stories, various young characters encounter kings and trolls, wild horses and rainbow-coloured sheep as they learn to find the magic in the stories all around them. With a tale based on the story of Rhiannon from the Mabinogion and another set in Hay-on-Wye. Shortlisted for the 2020 Tir na n-Og Award.
Seaglass
Eloise WilliamsFirefly Press 2019 9+ 978191008080
Location: Pembrokeshire
Themes: Family life – Illness – Isolation – Prejudice and otherness
Lark struggles to settle when her family moves to a new site on the coast. Her mother is ill, her little sister has stopped speaking and she has fallen out with her best friend. Is a girl in a green dress following her in the fog? Or is her sister playing tricks on her? When a local woman tells her 'the girl' comes to take sisters, Lark knows only she can save her family. Shortlisted for the 2019 Tir na n-Og Award.
Welsh Cakes and Custard
Wendy White (Helen Flook)Pont@Lolfa 2018 (First published in 2013) 7+ 9781848517127
Themes: First experiences – School life – Grandparents
The adventures of Betsi Wyn as she tastes many new experiences such as school dinners, concerts and pirate parties for the very first time, with the help of her friend Emyr Rhys and her grandmother. 2014 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
The Nearest Far Away Place
Hayley LongHot Key Books 2018 14+ 9781471406263
Location: Aberystwyth
Themes: Bereavement and grief – Families – Building new lives
The Nearest Faraway Place is a powerfully told story of the love between two brothers in the aftermath of a family tragedy. Griff and Dylan are driving into Manhattan with their parents when the worst happens. There is a terrible car accident and Dylan and Griff's parents are killed. 2018 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
The Storm Child
Gil Lewis (James Gifford)Oxford University Press 2018 7+ 9780198421139
Location: Cantre’r Gwaelod, Cardigan Bay
Themes: Myths and legends
This beautifully illustrated story is an adaptation of the Welsh legend of Cantre'r Gwaelod, the lost area of Wales which disappeared beneath the sea. This drowned land was once a pleasant and prosperous kingdom, its low-lying fields protected from the waves by a high sea wall. Shortlisted for the 2019 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Clockwork Crow
Catherine FisherFirefly Press 2018 9+ 9781910080849
Themes: Fantasy adventures – Christmas – Family
When Seren Rhys is given a newspaper parcel by a stranger late at night in an empty train station, she has no idea what trouble it contains. She’s on her way to the remote house of Plas-y Fran, but when she gets there the happy family Christmas she had hoped for turns out to be an illusion. Because Tomos has been missing for a year and a day, and if the strange and dangerous Family have really taken him, who would be mad enough to try and get him back? 2019 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Wales on the Map
Elin Meek (Valériane Leblond)Rily 2018 7+ 2018
Themes: Geography – History – Culture
Explore the delights and hidden treasures of Wales on a voyage of discovery through this fascinating country. Wales on the Map is a lavishly illustrated picture atlas that showcases the best Wales has to offer. Shrotlisted for the 2019 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Snow Spider Trilogy
Jenny NimmoHarper Collins 2018 9+ 9781405290302
Themes: Myths and legends – Fantasy – The Mabinogi
Jenny Nimmo’s classic trilogy, The Snow Spider, Emlyn’s Moon and The Chestnut Soldier in one book. The stories are inspired by Welsh mythology ang the Mabinogi. The books feature Gwyn Griffiths, one of Gwydion the wizard’s descendants who discovers and develops some of the magical power in his lineage. The Snow Spider won the 1987 Tir na n-Og award.
The Black Chair
Phil CarradicePont@Lolfa 2017 (First published 2009) 11+ 9781843239789
Location: Trawsfynydd
Themes: Friendship – The First World War – Welsh history
Using a fictional character in the same battalion as Hedd Wyn, we learn about the life and death of the celebrated poet who died before he was chaired at the 1917 Eisteddfod. Shortlisted for the 2010 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Haunting of Jessop Rise
Danny WestonAndersen Press Ltd 2017 11+ 9781783444618
Location: Porthmadog
Themes: Friendship - Mystery and danger – Adventure – Ghost story
Alone and penniless after his father is killed in a cotton mill accident, fourteen-year-old William faces the rest of his childhood in a brutal workhouse. Then his long-estranged uncle Seth sends for him, and William thinks his fortunes are changing. But at his uncle's home, William finds himself caught up in a dark and terrifying mystery. Shortlisted for the 2017 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Jewelled Jaguar
Sharon TregenzaFirefly Press 2017 9+ 9781910080641
Location: Pembrokeshire
Themes: Mystery and adventure – Family life – Forgiveness and reconciliation
A gripping adventure of caves, curses and ruthless thieves. When a huge sink hole nearly kills Griffin and his mother, everyone is in shock. With his mum in a coma, he has to stay with his uncle. His cousin, Cinnamon, doesn't want him there but Griffin still falls for her pet rat Ruby Ruby. Why don't his mother and uncle talk? Set in a fictionalised Saundersfoot. Shortlisted for the 2018 Tir na n-Og Award.
King of the Sky
Nicola Davies (Laura Carlin)Walker books 2017 4+ 9781406379198
Themes: Migration – Friendship – Hope
An un-named Italian boy forges a relationship built with an elderly retired miner and a special bird, which promises to be a champion. As the old man’s health fails, so does the young boy’s belief in the ability of the ‘King of the Sky’ to return (significantly from Rome, his former home) to the Welsh village. Shortlisted for the 2018 Tir na n-Og Award.
St David's Day is Cancelled
Wendy White (Huw Aaron)Gomer@Lolfa 2017 7+ 9781785622083
Themes: School adventures – Activism – Culture
Following a suspicious entry on the staff room calendar, Seren Wen and her friends are seriously concerned that there are no plans to celebrate Saint David's Day at their school this year. Shortlisted for the 2018 Tir na n-Og Award.
Santa’s Greatest Gift
Tudur Dylan Jones (Valériane Leblond)Gomer @ Lolfa 2017 4+ 9781785622366
Themes: Christmas – Problem solving
Santa has forgotten Gwydion’s present, despite his careful planning. Luckily, Santa comes up with a solution that makes everyone happy! Shortlisted for the 2018 Tir na n-Og Award.
Longbow Girl
Linda DaviesChicken House 2016 11+ 9781910002612
Location: Brecon Beacons
Themes: Action/adventure – Mystery – History – Romance
Merry Owen desperately wants her family to stay on their struggling farm in the Brecon Beacons, in the shadow of the Black Castle, which is owned by the de Courcy family, who have been enemies of Merry’s family for generations. Merry, a skilled archer, is happiest out riding – but when she finds an overturned tree and a buried chest containing an ancient Welsh text, it leads her into a past filled with treasure, secrets and untold danger. Shortlisted for the 2016 Tir na n-Og Award.
Sweet Pizza
G. R. GeminNosy Crow 2016 9+ 9780857636300
Location: South Wales Valleys
Themes: Family – Immigration – Illness – Coming-of-age
A heart-warming story about bringing a diverse community together and about the amazing history of Italian immigrants in Wales. Joe loves his Italian heritage: the language, the opera, the lasagne! But it's hard to celebrate Italian roots in Brynmawr, Gwent, where his mother is sick of running the family's tatty cafe. Tir na n-Og Award Winner 2017.
Alien Rain
Ruth MorganFirefly Press 2016 11+ 9781910080382
Location: Cardiff
Themes: Sci-fi – Post-apocalyptic life – Adventure and danger
Bree is an ordinary girl living in a Martian city where everyone dreams of going back to Earth. She is amazed when she is chosen for a mission to Earth, a rare honour. But there are terrible shocks ahead. When she starts getting strange messages from a voice only she can hear, whose side is she really on? Home or Earth? Shortlisted for the 2017 Tir na n-Og Award.
Cowgirl
G. R. GeminNosy Crow 2015 (First published 2014) 9+ 9780857632814
Location: South Wales Valley
Themes: Family life – Friendship – Social issues
Growing up on the embattled Mawr Estate in south Wales, all Gemma sees are burglaries, muggings, sadness and boredom. With a dad in prison and a mum who has given up hope, she, like everyone around her, is holding on to memories of the times when happiness wasn't so hard to find. 2015 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
The Search for Mister Lloyd
Griff RowlandCandy Jar Books 2015 11+ 9780993119170
Location: Bangor
Themes: Friendships – School life – Mystery and adventure
Where do you even begin to search for your lost pigeon? Of course, you put up LOST posters, pinning them to as many tree trunks as possible and handing them out to people in the street, but it's not like you can actually look for a pigeon... or can you? A mysterious tip-off suggests Mister Lloyd has landed in London and the search shifts to the metropolis where the 11-year-old hero finds himself increasingly isolated and in danger. 2016 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Ruck in the Muck
Ceri Wyn Jones (Adrian Reynolds)Pont@Lolfa 2015 4+ 9781785620676
Themes: Rugby – Imagination – Hopes for the future
In this exciting and vividly illustrated story, a field of thistles and muck becomes an international stadium for a tense match between two brothers. The crowd is waiting. Are you ready? Shortlisted for the 2016 Tir na n-Og Award.
Dottie Blanket and the Hilltop
Wendy Meddour (Mina May)Firefly Press 2014 7+ 9781910080122
Themes: Family life - New starts – Adventure
It's not easy when you come from Somewhere Else. Especially when you smell of trains and fish. When Mr Blanket lost his job in the city and couldn't find it again, it seemed things would never get better. 'I wish,' said Dottie, closing her eyes and trying not to wobble, 'that I lived on a bright green hilltop!' And then her wish was granted. Shortlisted for the 2015 Tir na n-Og Award.
Tad-cu’s Bobble Hat
Malachy Doyle (Dorry Spikes)Pont@Lolfa 2014 7+ 9781848518261
Themes: Grandparents – Bereavement - Grief – Memories
This is a story about the close relationship between Tad-cu Wil and his grandson as they go for a walk hand in hand in the mountains on a cold winter's day. Tad-cu's woolly hat is a symbol of the bond of love between them At its core this is a story about loss, which is presented in a gentle and caring way. Shortlisted for the 2015 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Seven
Steve GladwinPont@Lolfa 2013 11+ 9781848517431
Themes: Bereavement - Myths and legends - Discovery
Tony Lewis is feeling very lost after the premature death of his mother. He can't seem to find his place in the world any more so he is drawn to Eleri, a new girl in his class at school who seems to be out of her element too. Tony's mixed Celtic heritage makes him a passionate lad, but he is also keenly aware of the magical worlds of art and nature. He discovers a rich seam of myth and legend just beneath the familiar world, leading him to a realisation that he is not alone on his journey to find knowledge, wisdom & contentment. Shortlised for the 2014 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Wild West Show
Phil CarradicePont@Lolfa 2013 9+ 9781848516663
Location: Cardiff
Themes: Adventure - 20th Century Cardiff
When Buffalo Bill bursts into town with his band of Indian braves and sharp-shooting cowboys, crowds throng the streets of Cardiff. They all want a glimpse of the world-famous Wild West show. Amongst them is young Sam Thomas. But it isn't long before Sam's in danger ... but who can he trust and where will he find a place to hide? Shortlised for the 2014 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Tree of Leaf and Flame
Daniel Morden (Brett Breckon)Pont@Lolfa 2012 9+ 9781848513877
Themes: The Mabinogi - Myths and legends
Tree of Leaf and Flame is Daniel Morden's unique take on the tales of the Mabinogi. It's the perfect opportunity to hear these strange and fascinating tales retold by a storyteller who earns his living travelling Wales and holding audiences spellbound - just as the professional bards and troubadours did all those years ago. 2013 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
The Gardening Pirates
Ruth Morgan and Chris GlynnPont@Lolfa 2012 4+ 9781848513198
Themes: Bullying - Fair play – Gardening
The Ych-a-Fi is a seriously bad pirate ship. Its captain, Captain Cranc, feeds his crew on nothing but hard ship’s biscuit, while he feasts on ‘octopus pie and squid omelette’. Believing that a treasure map will lead him to gold, he insists his crew dig up the riches, but he is disgusted to find nothing but seeds, compost, and garden tools. Shortlised for the 201 Tir na n-Og Award.
Friends at War
Alan LambertPont@Lolfa 2012 9+ 9781848514669
Location: Swansea
Themes: Friendship - Second World War - Village life
The heart-warming story of two boys, Aldo and Freddo, whose Italian father is on the Arandora Star when she's torpedoed. Their best friend Robert finds his loyalty tested when a German prisoner-of-war, helps them restore a broken Pinocchio, a family heirloom belonging to their dad. Robert, doesn't know why he's reacting so badly. Shortlised for the 2013 Tir na n-Og Award.
Full Moon
Jenny SullivanPont@Lolfa 2011 9+ 9781848513969
Themes: Family life – Transformations - The supernatural
Nia is an average teenage girl with an average teenage life, but an encounter with a fierce creature one moonlit night changes her average life forever. What is the creature's connection to the stranger in her aunt's house? And why is it only seen when the moon is full? 2012 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Nelson at Sea
Simon Weston, David Fitzgerald (Jac Jones)Pont@Lolfa 2011 7+ 9781848513150
Themes: Holidays - Sea rescue – Friendship
When his owner, Mike the Milk, goes on holiday to Llandudno Nelson and his friends secretly decide to have a holiday of their own. They find the perfect guest house in Tenby to cater for all their needs, right down to the ‘oat cuisine’, and become involved in a rescue at sea, which brings them fame they will need to keep from Mike; but how can they do that? Shortlisted for the 2012 Tir na n-Og Award.
Saving SS Shannon
Phil CaradicePont@Lolfa 2011 9+ 9781848511644
Themes: Activism – Bullying - Adventure
When William hides from bully-boy Danny on the wreck of the old ship, he cannot imagine the adventures ahead of him ... or the dangers! Danny's father is a property developer with big plans for the dockyard area - and they don't include the SS Shannon. Shortlisted for the 2012 Tir na n-Og Award.
Three Little Sheep
Rob LewisPont@Lolfa 2010 4+ 9781848511552
Themes: Animal adventures
Whilst out one day in the meadow, three sheep wearing their favourite ribbons hear loud singing coming from a hole in the ground. When a stone falls over the edge, it isn’t a friendly miner who pops out but a disgruntled wolf! Olwen, Meg and Flo run for their lives. Will they escape safely? 2011 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Mutiny on the School Ship Bounty
Jon BlakePont@Lolfa 2010 9+ 9781848510388
Themes: Adventure – Humour - Surprises
There's a crisis at Owen Glyn Bowen School - it's gone down a hole in the ground! But it isn't a problem for the headmistress as she arranges for school to continue as usual on a ship. But the staff and curriculum have changed completely, the children are unhappy and escape. Shortlisted for the 2011 Tir na n-Og Award.
Wales – A Very Peculiar History
Rupert Matthews (David Antram, Mark Bergin)Book House 2010 7+ 9781907184192
Themes: Welsh history
From Roman invasion to tall tales of Merlin and King Arthur, and right up to the power of the mining industry, Wales - A Very Peculiar History takes a sideways look at some of the more peculiar aspects of the home of Welsh rarebit, Maelgwn the Dragon, and Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. Shortlisted for the 2011 Tir na n-Og Award.
Dear Mr Author
Paul ManshipPont@Lolfa 2009 9+ 9781848510418
Themes: School life - Personal strengths
Eleven-year-old Sam struggles to control events, worried that a mysterious author is calling the shots. A keen footballer and writer, it comes as a shock to Sam to discover that he is performing another author's script, and dancing to someone else's tune. What can he do to recover control of his life? 2010 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Roberto’s War
Alan LambertPont@Lolfa 2009 9+ 9781848510784
Location: South Wales Valleys
Themes: Friendship – Prejudice - Second World War
The effects of war get too close to home for Robert and his friends. It is 1940, the first hot summer of the War. In the mining valleys north of Cardiff, Robert, Freddo and Aldo escape the day-to-day drudgery of rationing and blackouts with a carefree afternoon swim in the old, abandoned quarry. But then the evacuees arrive. Shortlisted for the 2010 Tir na n-Og Award.
Nelson to the Rescue
Simon Weston, David FitzGerald (Jac Jones)Pont@Lolfa 2009 7+ 9781848510456
Themes: Animal adventures
Nelson the carthorse thinks his foolish friends have got lost in London, so it’s up to him, along with a motley crew of farm animals, to save the day! Shortlisted for the 2010 Tir na n-Og Award.
Merlin’s Magical Creatures
Graham HowellsPont@Lolfa 2008 7+ 9781843239024
Themes: Creatures and monseters - Myths and legends
Can you tell the difference between a 'pwca' and a 'bwca', a 'bwbach' and a 'bwci bo'? No? Help is at hand. This book started life when its author discovered a set of manuscripts in a cave in the remote Carmarthenshire hills. 2009 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
A Nod from Nelson
Simon Weston, David FitzGerald (Jac Jones)Pont@Lolfa 2008 7+ 9781843238133
Themes: Animal adventures
Nelson is a horse, a retired carthorse for Mike the Milk to be exact, and as Mike has bought a milk float. Not that he minds: it gives him more time to do the crossword. However, when environmental disaster threatens at St Mary's Dairy in Pont-y-Cary, Nelson and his chums Rhodri and Rhys, the stable rats, and Flight Lieutenant Pigeon save the day in their own inimitable way, and it looks like Nelson may not be retired after all. Shortlisted for the 2009 Tir na n-Og Award.
Swap
Malachy DoylePont@Lolfa 2008 11+ 9781843238577
Themes: Family life - School life – Independence
A story about two boys, one Irish, one Welsh, who change places and live life in each other's shoes. They may look identical, but they're so different. On a camping holiday alone with his mam, Huw wonders how it would feel to be Marcus. Marcus wonders the same thing, but in reverse. But changing places may be trickier than it seems. Shortlisted for the 2009 Tir na n-Og Award.
Finding Minerva
Frances ThomasPont@Lolfa 2007 11+ 9781843237464
Themes: Bravery – Thriller
An action-packed adventure of corruption, danger and mistrust set in a fictional Britain which has remained under Roman Rule. 2008 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
A Gift for St David’s Day
Ed. Neil Nuttal (Brett Breckon, Jac Jones, Suzanne Carpenter)Pont@Lolfa 2007 7+ 9781843236795
Location: St Davids
Themes: Culture – History - Modern-day Wales
An impressive collection of poetry, prose and drama, from some of Wales's leading writers, celebrating the legend of St David. Shortlisted for the 2008 Tir na n-Og Award.
Under the Cindertip
Nigel Paul MorganGwasg Carreg Gwalch 2007 11+ 9781845271428
Location: Merthyr Tydfil
Themes: Street crime – Poverty - Social turmoil
While visiting her great grandmother in Merthyr, Zoe is mysteriously transported back to the smoke-choked maelstrom of the town in 1831. Here she is caught up in the harsh world of street gangs, forced work, beggars and orphans. She struggles to understand the growing social turmoil around her while her memory of the modern-day world recedes. Shortlisted for the 2008 Tir na n-Og Award.
Dark Tales from the Woods
Daniel Morden (Brett Breckon)Pont@Lolfa 2006 9+ 9781843235835
Themes: Short stories
Seven short stories, in which are found vivid retellings of the gypsy tales collected from the Wood family of Caegwyn. Including magical tales rich with the mystery of the Welsh landscape and quest stories. 2007 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Gatty’s Tale
Kevin Crossley HollandOrion Publishing 2006 11+ 9781842552735
Themes: Medieval history - Personal growth – Discovery
A marvellous story of a medieval pilgrimage, centred on Gatty. Not all the pilgrims make it to Jerusalem, but Gatty does. She sees all the holy places, and comes home with much of her naivety intact Shortlisted for the 2007 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Telling Pool
David Clement-DaviesBloomsbury 2006 11+ 9780747572886
Themes: Coming-of-age – Prejudice – Consequences
Rhodri Falcon, son of Owen master Falconer to a Norman lord on the border with Wales, has his fortune read at a fair. It foretells of war and sends Rhodri on a quest to unlock the sword of Excalibur. Shortlisted for the 2007 Tir na n-Og Award.
Framed
Frank Cotterell-Boyce (Steven Lenton)Macmillan Children’s Books 2005; Republished 2019 9+ 9781529008784
Location: Manod, Snowdonia
Themes: Adventure – Humour – Art
Dylan is the only boy living in the Welsh town of Manod; when a mysterious convoy of lorries trundles up the misty mountainside towards a disused mine, Dylan is confounded. Who are these people - and what have they got to hide? A story inspired by the contents of London's National Gallery stored in Welsh slate mines during World War II. Shortlisted for the 2006 Tir na n-Og Award.
Tirion’s Secret Journal
Jenny SullivanPont@Lolfa 2005 9+ 9781843234609
Themes: Facing fears – Ambitions - Helping others
It is Caerphilly in 1645 and 10-year old Tirion Griffiths arrives to work at Llancaiach Fawr Manor only to find that her main duty is to be the ‘spider-brusher’ for the Mistress, which was not quite what an educated girl like her was expecting. 2006 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Darkhenge
Catherine FisherDefinitions 2005 14+ 9780099438496
Themes: Quest for understanding - Myths and legends
Rob's sister Chloe lies in a coma after a riding accident, trapped in a forest of dreams between life and death. But when a dark druid shape-shifts his way into Rob's life, despair turns to hope. Could the ominous black ring of timbers hold the key to rescuing her? Will Chloe want to be rescued from a world where the landscapes of story merge and blur, and she has the chance to be Queen? Shortlisted for the 2006 Tir na n-Og Award.
On the Other Hand
Jean GillY Lolfa 2005 11+ 9780862437718
Themes: School life
Jamie is left-handed and feels that she is teased against because of this. With Ryan’s encouragement she is able to rise above it and show people that being left-handed is pretty cool. Shortlisted for the 2006 Tir na n-Og Award.
Kyffin Williams: Painting the Mountains
Carolyn Davies, Lynne BebbPont@Lolfa 2005 9+ 9781843235781
Themes: Art
An inspiring artbook for children which serves as an introduction to the work of one of Wales's best-loved artists. Twenty of his works are reproduced here in full colour, together with evocative photographs of Kyffin at work. Shortlisted for the 2006 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Wish House
Celia ReesPicador 2005 11+ 9780333947395
Themes: First experiences – Secrets – Guilt – Witchcraft
A novel set on the West Wales coast in the 1970s portraying the loss of innocence, first experiences of love, sex and death, and dark feelings of jealousy and betrayal as an adolescent boy is seduced by an unusual family who practice free love and experiment with drugs. Shortlisted for the 2006 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Seal Children
Jackie MorrisOtter-Barry Books 2004 4+ 9781910959473
Themes: Myths and legends – Animals - Family life
When a fisherman falls in love with a selkie - half-woman, half-seal - she gives him her sealskin as a sign of her love, and bears him two children, Ffion and Morlo, before returning to her own people. When a stranger comes to the village, telling of a land far away, the children remember their mother's stories of the cities of gold and pearls beneath the waves. 2005 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Turning Points in History 1485-1914
Stuart Broomfield, Euryn Madoc-Jones (Brett Breckon)Gwasg Prifysgol Cymru 2004 11+ 9780708318287
Themes: History - Factual (Textbook)
A fully illustrated history textbook presenting information about significant events and turning points in Welsh history, 1485-1914, and about the notable personalities who coloured the nation's history, with lively corroborative visual and documentary sources and notes. Shortlisted for the 2005 Tir na n-Og Award.
In Chatter Wood
Jac JonesPont@Lolfa 2004 9+ 9781843232902
Themes: Mystery and magic – Nature
A chilling story with atmospheric illustrations about the twins Sara and Gwion who overcome dark forces that affect the lives of the local villagers when the wall of an ancient stone circle is breached, Shortlisted for the 2005 Tir na n-Og Award.
Nat
Margaret JonesPont@Lolfa 2004 9+ 9781843233275
Themes: Folk and fairy stories - Social divides
A beautiful, evocative story based on Welsh folk tales. Margaret Jones tells the story of Gwenny the servant girl who rescues the changeling boy Nat. Nat is unloved and unwanted by the fairy folk, but they don’t want to let him go. The story revolves around Gwenny’s attempt to keep him Shortlisted for the 2005 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Battle of Mametz Wood, 1916
Robert PhillipsCAA Cymru 2003 11+ 9781856447263
Themes: First World War
The story of one of the major battles of the Somme, retold by witnesses and including a summary of the opinions of various historians. 2004 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
A Wind from the Sea
Jennifer MorganPont@Lolfa 2003 9+ 9781843232094
Themes: Friendship – Slavery – Mystery
An engaging story of a special friendship between two young girls brought together by orphanhood and set against a background of slavery. Shortlisted for the 2004 Tir na n-Og Award.
Now that I’ve Found You
Rex HarleyPont@Lolfa 2003 14+ 9781843231073
Location: Cardiff
Themes: Secrecy – Relationships – Fantasy
What is a boy to make of a girl trapped in a time-warp, behaving as though she forgot to move on from the 20th century into this one? What is so bad about the here and now that she can't face it? Shortlisted for the 2004 Tir na n-Og Award.
Weird Tales from the Storyteller
Daniel Morden (Jac Jones)Pont@Lolfa 2003 7+ 9781843232100
Themes: Magic
A collection of seven magical and spine-chilling stories. Shortlisted for the 2004 Tir na n-Og Award.
Cold Jac
Rob LewisGomer@Atebol 2002 4+ 9781843231172
Themes: Grandparents - Family life – Farms
A colourful and entertaining story about Jac's grandmother knitting several jumpers to keep Jac and his farm animals warm during the cold weather on her hiltop farm. 2003 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
A Boy to Drive the Beasts
D. J. ThorpGwasg Pantycelyn 2002 11+ 9781903314517
Location: Corwen
Themes: Seeking freedom - Victorian era Wales
A short novel about a young boy who escapes from his home at Corwen workhouse to look for freedom and excitement by joining the drovers where he encounters many dangers before finally finding hope for a secure future. Shortlisted for the 2003 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Caterpillar that Couldn’t
Jenny Sullivan (Fran Evans)Gomer@Atebol 2002 4+ 9781843230717
Themes: Patience – Ambitions
A story about a sad caterpillar who unsuccessfully tries to learn to dance, but realises his ambition when he finally develops into a butterfly Shortlisted for the 2003 Tir na n-Og Award.
Corbenic
Catherine FisherRed Fox Books 2002 14+ 9780099438489
Themes: Myths and legends – Adventure - Self-knowledge
Cal has struggled to cope with his mother’s drinking and her psychotic episodes since he was six; cooped up in their dirty council flat he dreams of a new life. When he leaves to live with his uncle Trevor in Chepstow, he is ruthless about breaking with the past. But getting off the train at the wrong station he finds himself at the castle of the Fisher King, and from then on moves in a nightmare adventure. Shortlisted for the 2003 Tir na n-Og Award.
Cow
Malachy Doyle (Angelo Rinalchi)Simon & Schuster 2002 4+ 9780743462150
It's hard work being a cow - you graze, you chew, and you rest. This picture book tells of a day in the life of a cow, from the dawn rising and that early morning walk to the barn to be milked, through the hot summer's day, to the evening milking and dusk. Shortlisted for the 2003 Tir na n-Og Award.
Jumping the Waves
Malachy Doyle (Jac Jones)Pont@Lolfa 2002 7+ 9781843230762
Location: Llyn y Fan Fach, Carmarthenshire
Themes: Myths and Legends
A retelling of the legend of Llyn y Fan Fach. Rhys falls in love with a magical lady who agrees to marry him, but will leave him if he strikes her three times, accidentally or otherwise. They have three sons and lie a happy life together. Even so Rhys does, over time strike her three times, and after the third she takes her cattle and returns to Llyn y Fan Fach. Shortlisted for the 2003 Tir na n-Og Award.
Sabrina Fludde
Pauline FiskBloomsbury 2002 11+ 9780747559351
Themes: Mystery - Myths and legends
An atmospheric fantasy tale imaginatively intertwining the legendary and contemporary as a young girl who is as one with the soul of the river Severn unravels the mystery of the river and her own character as she follows the river from its source in the Welsh hills to the Bristol Channel. Shortlisted for the 2003 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Ship That Fell Like a Star
Anne LewisHonno 2002 11+ 9781870206518
Themes: Tolerance – Adventure – Secrets
A fantasy novel about three groups of children from three different worlds who are connected through a terrible secret and who have to undergo dangerous journeys to save themselves and their people from destruction Shortlisted for the 2003 Tir na n-Og Award.
Stories From Abergelli Street
Nicola Davies (Elaine Franks)Pont@Lolfa 2002 7+ 9781843230755
Themes: Short stories
A warm and humorous collection of seven short stories about the every-day life of the inhabitants, both human and animal, of Abergelli Street through the seasons, as a variety of humans and creatures live together in harmony Shortlisted for the 2003 Tir na n-Og Award.
Georgie
Malachy DoyleBloomsbury 2001 11+ 9780747551546
Themes: Isolation – Change
Georgie is a boy in special care. No one can get close to him and no one can trust him and Georgie lives in terrifying isolation. Until one day, when it is decided that Georgie will move to the country, and when Georgie gets there, he uses the change to allow for a change in himself. 2002 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Outrageous Oomph
Julie Rainsbury (Suzanne Carpenter)Pont@Lolfa 2001 7+ 9781843230342
Themes: Imagination - Family life
Rhian and Rhys are twins about to celebrate their ninth birthday. They enjoy the usual interests of all youngsters of their age, but what makes them different is their lively Mam-gu, who knits constantly. Her creations of gaudy knitted garments cause amusement and embarrassment. Shortlisted for the 2002 Tir na n-Og Award.
Arthur – At the Crossing Places
Kevin Crossley-HollandHachette 2001 11+ 9780439265997
Themes: History- Fantasy - Myths and legends
Arthur leaves Caldicot behind and taking up a position as squire to Lord Stephen. Finding his feet in a new environment, he has to negotiate several awkward situations at the manor while making preparations to accompany Lord Stephen on Crusade. He also continues to follow the adventures of King Arthur and his Knights in his 'seeing stone'. Shortlisted for the 2002 Tir na n-Og Award.
Who, Me?
Jenny SullivanPont@Lolfa 2001 11+ 9781859029428
Themes: Myths and legends – Adventure – Mystery
An entertaining fantasy story relating the wonderful adventures of the white witch Tanith as she seeks to unravel the mystery of the disappearance of Gwydion, Dragonking of Ynys Haf, whose kingdom is now ruled by Maebh, a witch of sinister powers. Shortlisted for the 2002 Tir na n-Og Award.
Arthur – The Seeing Stone
Kevin Crossley-HollandHachette 2000 11+ 9780752844299
Themes: Myths and legends
The year is 1199, the place the Welsh Marches. Young Arthur de Caldicot is given a magical shining stone in which his legendary namesake is revealed. 2001 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
The Girl in Green
Gillian DrakePont@Lolfa 2000 11+ 9781859028728
Themes: Mystery – Bullying - Broken homes
A tender mystic tale of two young teenagers who unravel the mystery of a young teenage girl prevented from fulfilling her ambition of becoming an artist during the Victorian era, thus bringing peace to her restless soul. Shortlisted for the 2001 Tir na n-Og Award.
Owen and the Mountain
Malachy Doyle (Giles Greenfield)Bloomsbury 2000 4+ 9780747550938
Themes: Grandparents - Family
A story about the special relationship of a young boy and his loving grandfather as they climb a mountain together Shortlisted for the 2001 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Poet’s House – An Anthology of Poems
Jude Brigley (Fran Evans)Pont@Lolfa 2000 9+ 9781859026021
Themes: Poetry
An anthology of 77 diverse poems by over 50 poets spanning 15 centuries of writing, providing reflections on various Themes: such as school and sporting activities, nature and personalities. Shortlisted for the 2001 Tir na n-Og Award.
Artworks on ... Interiors
Sue BalsomF.B.A. Publications 1999 9+ 9781901862195
Themes: Art and design
A colourful and interesting resource book presenting original creative ideas in the fields of painting, pottery, textiles and designing stage sets 2000 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Two Left Feet
Jenny Sullivan (Graham Howells)Pont@Lolfa 1999 7+ 9781843235941
Location: Raglan Castle
Themes: Friendship – Determination - School trip
A story about a boy with a physical disability who climbs to the top of Raglan Castle’s tower and helps a classmate who’s afraid of heights conquer his fears at the same time. Shortlisted for the 2000 Tir na n-Og Award.
Landlocked
Catherine JohnsonPont@Lolfa 1999 14+ 9781859026649
Themes: Finishing school - First job - First love
Iestyn has finished his exams, finished school and has no idea what he wants to do next. A post as a trainee fishing warden at the local reservoir will have to do in an area where jobs are scarce. But Iestyn soon finds that there is an upside; Cerys, who works in the café. However, he discovers that first love can be painful, as Cerys and his sister have plotted to betray him. Shortlisted for the 2000 Tir na n-Og Award.
Rhian’s Song
Gilian DrakePont@Lolfa 1998 14+ 9781859025758
Themes: Adolescence – Relationships – Creativity
Rhian struggles to deal with adolescence and the changes in her relationship with others. Rhian feels she doesn’t belong anywhere and finds her only solace in writing poetry. Her life is contrasted with the equally discontented Alun, who has a different set of frustrations. Their only link is their creativity. 1999 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
On the Tongue of a Bird – The Story of Branwen
West Glamorgan Youth Theatre and Dance CompanyPont@Lolfa 1998 11+ 9781859025277
Themes: Myths and legends - The Mabinogi – Branwen
The lyrics and music of a musical drama, portraying the story of Branwen, written and performed by West Glamorgan Youth Theatre and Dance Company, to promote similar activity among secondary school pupils. Shortlisted for the 1999 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Second Twins
Laura HughesPont@Lolfa 1998 9+ 9781859025703
Location: Porthcawl
Themes: Iron Age Wales – Adventure - Family life
A gripping and heart-rending tale about a 20th century youngster who travels to a far-gone age, and uses his diving skills to save a failing kingdom Shortlisted for the 1999 Tir na n-Og Award.
Alwena’s Garden
Mary OldhamPont@Lolfa 1997 14+ 9781859024386
Location: Ceredigion
Themes: Health - Adolescence – Friendship
Alwena is almost fifteen and making a slow recovery from juvenile arthritis. She has not attended school for two years and, to add to her isolation, lives with her parents in a crumbling mansion deep in the hills of Ceredigion. Alwena is awakened, in Sleeping Beauty fashion, by Gareth, a local A-Level student intent on studying Plas Idaleg for his art project. 1998 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Branwen
Jenny Nimmo (Jac Jones)Pont@Lolfa 1997 7+ 9781859023228
Location: Harlech
Themes: Myths and legends - The Mabinogi – Branwen
A colourfully illustrated retelling of the well-known tale from the Mabinogi about the ill-fated union between an Irish prince and a Welsh princess, in the Legends from Wales series Shortlisted for the 1998 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Back End of Nowhere
Jenny SullivanPont@Lolfa 1997 11+ 9781859024973
Location: Ceredigion
Themes: Myths and Legends - Cantre’r Gwaelod – Relationships
A novel for young people about a young American girl who moves to live in Wales much against her will. The story is loosely based on the Cantre'r Gwaelod legend. Shortlisted for the 1998 Tir na n-Og Award.
Dragonson
Jenny SullivanPont@Lolfa 1997 9+ 9781859025802
Themes: Witchcraft and wizardry – Adventure
The third book in the magical trilogy Book of Gwydion, featuring the teenage witch Tanith Williams. Having come to terms with the knowledge that she is a witch with magical powers, Tanith again finds herself battling against the evil forces of her old enemies, as well as an even more dangerous and powerful evil force, Merch Corryn Du, the Spiderwitch. Shortlisted for the 1998 Tir na n-Og Award.
Say that again
Mairwen Jones & John Spink (Suzanne Carpenter)Pont@Lolfa 1997 11+ 9781859024089
Themes: Poetry
An anthology of poems by five Welsh poets, aiming to amuse, provoke and incite thought in young people aged thirteen years and over, together with comments by each poet on the incentive to write. Shortlisted for the 1998 Tir na n-Og Award.
Cities in the Sea
Sian Lewis (Jackie Morris)Pont@Lolfa 1996 9+ 9781843231721
Location: Cardigan Bay
Themes: Myths and legends - Cantre’r Gwaelod
The magical and tragic legend about the drowning of the city of Cantre'r Gwaelod underneath the waters of Ceredigion Bay. 1997 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Clare and Effie
Merryn Williams (Bernice Carlill)Honno 1996 9+ 9781870206198
Location: Swansea
Themes: Family life – Acceptance – Art
Clare finds that it is no fun being the younger sister of a clever older brother, her artistic talent dismissed, falling behind at school, and upset by her parents' marital problems. The summer holiday provides a welcome refuge and opportunity for Clare to discover more about the work of her female artist relative, Euphemia Price - Effie of the title. Shortlisted for the 1997 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Torc and the Ring
Margaret JoyFaber and Faber 1996 11+ 9780571179442
Location: Mold
Themes: History - Family life – Adventure
An historical time-slip novel, set in the 1990s and 3000 years ago. When William Bellis sees a ghost - a gold, shimmering vision - up on the hills of North Wales, and his mother unearths an ancient ring in their garden, he starts to investigate the history of the place. Shortlisted for the 1997 Tir na n-Og Award.
Flood Find
Jan Barrow (Robin Lawrie)Pont@Lolfa 1996 7+ 9781859023266
Location: Gwent
Themes: Archaeology – History - Family life
Budding archaeologist Gareth Morgan lives on the family farm in Mid Wales. He keeps a catalogue of all his finds, from odd bits of pottery to a World War I helmet. His older siblings mostly ignore him; his parents are always busy, but Caradoc the cat and his Tada take an interest in Gareth’s hobby. Shortlisted for the 1997 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Island of Summer
Jenny SullivanPont@Lolfa 1996 9+ 9781859023518
Themes: Myths and legends – Adventure
The second book in the magical trilogy Book of Gwydion in which Tanith and Gwydion are once more caught up in the struggle between Good and Evil. Shortlisted for the 1997 Tir na n-Og Award.
Wales and Britain in the Medieval World c.1000-c.1500
Hefin MathiasHodder 1996 11+ 9780340631492
Themes: History
A text introducing the divisions and conflicts in Wales and Britain in the year 1000. It explores the impact of the Norman invasion, highlighting the political, social and economic consequences of their rule. It looks at the effects of the Crusades and the troubles of the 14th century. Shortlisted for the 1997 Tir na n-Og Award.
Gwion and the Witch
Jenny Nimmo (Jac Jones)Pont@Lolfa 1996 7+ 9781859022948
Themes: Myths and legends – Taliesin
This retelling of the folk tale of Taliesin. Shortlisted for the 1997 Tir na n-Og Award.
Who’s Afraid of the Bwgan Wood?
Anne LewisHonno 1995 4+ 9781870206143
Themes: Adventure – Magic - Family life
A novel about Tatibwgan and Bwgandaio who venture from the wood and discover a world full of humans and animals, magic and surprises. 1996 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Wales and Britain in the Early modern World c.1500-1760
Roger TurveyHodder 1995 11+ 9780340643488
Themes: History
This book offers a mixture of narrative history covering political, economic, social and cultural Themes:. Shortlisted for the 1996 Tir na n-Og Award.
Stonestruck
Helen CresswellPuffin 1995 11+ 9780140373677
Location: Welshpool
Themes: Second World War – Mystery
When Jessica is sent from London of the Blitz to the seemingly peaceful Powys Castle in Wales, she swaps the bewildering world of war for another of screaming peacocks, whispering mists, superstition, and a chain of grey-faced children searching out homesick evacuees to catch in their ghostly net. Shortlisted for the 1996 Tir na n-Og Award.
Bath Rat
Sian LewisRed Fox 1995 9+ 9780099612018
Themes: Adventure – Activism – Teamwork
Rat, once considered a genius among rats, has escaped from his comfortable cage in the martingale Institute. He has taken refuge in the Hamblington Public Baths where he meets a homeless boy called Dylan. When Dylan campaigns to save the Baths from closure the resourceful Rat is never far away. On the hostile streets of Hamblington he has learnt a thing or two about rats and men. Shortlisted for the 1996 Tir na n-Og Award.
Something’s Burning
Mary OldhamPont@Lolfa 1995 11+ 9781859021194
Location: Adolescence – Relationships – Belonging
Themes: Wales-England border
Teenager Barbara Dawes is having a challenging time: her volatile relationship with her mother about her weight; her crush on fellow student Byron Tudor and her growing relationship with his brother Hywel; her worries about being a 'white settler' in a Welsh town, and the mystery of the new girl, Heledd, who won't speak to anyone. Shortlisted for the 1996 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Turn of the Wheel
Bronwen HosieAlun Books 1995 11+ 9780907117698
Location: Rhymney Valley
Themes: Post-war childhood – Adventures
Bronwen Hosie has based The Turn of the Wheel, the saga of Dai Morrissey and his adventures, on her father's memories of his childhood in the Rhymney valley in the years after the First World War. She recreates that almost-vanished world with a humour and liveliness that will appeal to all ages. Shortlisted for the 1996 Tir na n-Og Award.
Everything Happens on Mondays
Nicola DaviesPont@Lolfa 1995 9+ 9781859022986
Themes: School life - Family life – Relationships
Seven short stories about Nia and her friends, year seven pupils in Glantwrch Middle School, which give a glimps into their lives at home and at school. Shortlisted for the 1996 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Blue Man and other Stories
Christine EvansPont@Lolfa 1995 9+ 9781859022283
Themes: Coming-of-age - Childhood and youth
Fifteen stories about different experiences of growing up in Wales. Shortlisted for the 1996 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Candle Man
Catherine FisherRed Fox 1994 9+ 9780099301394
Themes: Ghosts and spirits - Regaining control
Meurig, the fiddler, is a haunted man. Hafren, the evil spirit-woman of the Severn has captured his soul and now possesses the key to his life - a small candle stub. Hafren taunts and torments Meurig but with help from Conor and Sara, he can take back his life from her watery grasp - at the cost of flooding the land. Meurig must make his choice - his life or the village. 1995 Tir na n-Og Award Winner.
Griffin’s Castle
Jenny NimmoMammoth 1994 7+ 9780749726027
Themes: Mystery
Lonely and friendless from constantly moving, Dinah finds herself wishing the animal statues protecting a nearby Welsh castle would keep her company. Suddenly, to Dinah's delight, the stone animals start to magically spring from the walls and follow her home. But when the animals refuse to let Dinah leave her house, she quickly realizes that these mysterious creatures aren't rescuing her, they're imprisoning her. Shortlisted for the 1995 Tir na n-Og Award.
Plug
Siân LewisAndersen Press 1994 11+ 9780862645397
Themes: Friendship – Telepathy
When Pug is involved in an accident, her telepathic best friend Catrin senses that something has happened before the news is out. When Pug's mother remarries, Pug impulsively decides to look up her father. Catrin awakens in the night, sure that Pug is in danger - and determined to save her friend. Shortlisted for the 1995 Tir na n-Og Award.
Killing the Demons
Jay AshtonPuffin 1994 11+ 9780140369922
Themes: New beginnings – Relationships
Sam and her parents move to Wales. For Sam, a wheel-chair user, her new life is fraught with difficulties and challenges, including school and dealing with her anger. Playing computer games helps her, but she can’t escape like this forever and eventually she must begin to come to terms with her life and future in the real world. Soon, she meets some strong characters, not least of whom is a prisoner doing community service. Shortlisted for the 1995 Tir na n-Og Award.
Denny and the Magical Pool
Pamela PurnellPont@Lolfa 1993 9+ 9780863839900
Location: Cardiff
Themes: Creativity – Relationships – Magic
Denny's parents have separated, and he must live with his Nana. Owen Street in Cardiff is in a run-down area, but Denny has known and loved it all his life - particularly the muddy shoreline of the River Taff nearby. When Denny joins a drama group, it is his story, a legend about a monster in a pool in the Taff, that is chosen to be dramatised, and the legend works its own kind of magic on the children involved 1994 Tir na n-Og Award winner.
On a Scaffold High
Gweneth LillyPont@Lolfa 1993 11+ 9780863839726
Themes: History - The theatre
A novel based in London during the period of Elizabeth I, about a twelve-year-old boy from Wales who becomes involved with the theatre and an up-and-coming playwright called Shakespeare together with his children. Shortlisted for the 1994 Tir na n-Og Award.
Project Kite
Siân LewisRed Fox 1993 9+ 9780099461517
Themes: Protecting nature
Gary lives in one of the few villages in mid-Wales where the red kite still nests. When he and his friends are shown a new nest by an RSPB warden, they mount a dawn-to-dusk watch to protect the birds against egg thieves. Shortlisted for the 1994 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Old Man of Gilfach
Eirlys TreforPont@Lolfa 1993 9+ 9781859020005
Themes: Mystery – Humour – Adventure – Magic
Daniel doesn't quite fit in at his private school in Liverpool and takes time to become fully bilingual and accepted by the bullies of Pen-y-bont in the Welsh countryside. His cousin Robin befriends and protects him, but he is uncomfortable in the company of his Uncle Jac who shouts; he finds rural life strange, with unpleasant farmyard smells. Shortlisted for the 1994 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Woman Who Went to Fairyland
Rosalind Kerven (Hone de Lacey)Puffin 1992 7+ 9780216932630
Themes: Myths and legends – Fairies – Mystery
Old Bet is always warning Elin that fairies are dangerous, but the foolish girl just won’t listen. So, when Elin mysteriously disappears, Bet is certain that the fairies themselves have taken her. Then a storm brings a visitor who shows Bet that fairy enchantment is even stranger than she thought. Shortlisted for the 1993 Tir na n-Og Award.
Mary Jones and her Bible
Mig Holder (Tony Morris)Cymdeithas y Beibl 1992 7+ 9780564082056
Themes: Determination
The traditional story of the Welsh girl who saved her money for six years and walked twenty-five miles to obtain her own copy of the Bible. Shortlisted for the 1993 Tir na n-Og Award.
It’s Welsh!
Heini GruffuddY Lolfa 1992 14+ 9780862432454
Themes: Learning Welsh
A lively course for teenagers learning Welsh to be used instead of, or alongside, formal lessons. Shortlisted for the 1993 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Street and the Stars
John Davies, Melvyn JonesSeren 1992 14+ 9781854110763
An anthology of writing in English by authors living and working in Wales. Shortlisted for the 1993 Tir na n-Og Award.
Telling the Sea
Puline FiskLion Children’s Books 1992 11+ 9780745922461
Themes: Family life – Responsibility – Friendship
Follow the fortunes of Nona, her mother and Nona's younger sister Sharon. The family runs away together to the seaside village in Wales which was the focus of Nona's mother's own childhood happiness. Shortlisted for the 1993 Tir na n-Og Award.
Who Stole a Bloater?
Frances ThomasSeren Books 1991 9+ 9781854112118
Themes: Pre-war life
We are thrown into the everyday activities of the volatile members of the large Vaughan family in a south Wales mining valley before the First World War. Lively but thoughtful eleven-year-old Davy is our main protagonist. 1992 Tir na n-Og Award winner.
Fintan’s Tower
Catherine FisherRed Fox 1991 9+ 9781849416160
Themes: Adventure – Mystery
Jamie was at the library looking for a book that was different, one he could get lost in. But he didn't mean it literally. The Book with his own name in it leads Jamie and his sister Jenny into the Summer Country - a world of magic and danger, where even time behaves strangely; where Fintan's Tower has held its prisoner since the days of Camelot, and will keep Jamie and Jenny, too, unless Jamie can read the book right Shortlisted for the 1992 Tir na n-Og Award.
A Shilling for the Gate
Mary John (Bryan Jones)Pont@Lolfa 1991 9+ 9780863837630
Themes: Welsh history
Shortlisted for the 1992 Tir na n-Og Award.
Invasion!
Bette Meyrick (Martin White)Pont@Lolfa 1991 9+ 9780863837739
Location: Pembrokeshire
Themes: Welsh history - Rebecca Riots
A short historical novel in 1797 when the French made an abortive attempt to invade Britain by landing in Pembrokeshire. Shortlisted for the 1992 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Prince and the Cave
Frances Thomas (Bryan Jones)Pont@Lolfa 1991 9+ 9780863837685
Themes: Welsh history - Llywelyn – Survival
Set in the time of Llywelyn, the last Prince of Wales, Rhys has spent all his young life being teased by his cousin about being afraid of the dark. One night he is forced to help Llywelyn, the last Prince of Wales, who is hiding from his English enemies. Forgetting his fear of the dark, for this is a real challenge of survival, Rhys realises that he must get his prince to safety. Shortlisted for the 1992 Tir na n-Og Award.
Let’s Visit a Sheep Farm
Sarah Doughty Diana BentleyWayland 1990 4+ 9781852107482
Themes: Farms - Sheep
Each book in the "Let's Visit A Farm" series has been designed to take young readers on a visit to a real working farm. Illustrations are accompanied by two levels of text in each book, the first set for children who are just beginning to read aloud, and the second for more advanced readers. Shortlisted for the 1991 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Steps up the Chimney
William CorlettArrow Books 1990 9+ 9780099407669
Themes: Magic – Adventure – Mystery
William, Mary and Alice encounter a magician from another time who gives them magical powers and sets them on important tasks. The three children arrive at Golden House on their holidays, and they soon realize that there is something very mysterious about the ancient house. Shortlisted for the 1991 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Adventures of Marmaduke Purr Cat
Celia Lucas (Susan Cutting)Tabb House 1990 7+ 9780907018735
Themes: Travel – Animals
Marmaduke is a remarkable animal with the ability to speak human language as well as Miawpurrese. With this unique gift, he takes a job as a courier, giving conducted tours to beauty spots and places of interest in different parts of the country. Shortlisted for the 1991 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Farm that Ran Out of Names
William MayneRed Fox 1990 7+ 9780099855507
Themes: Adventure – Activism - Welsh history
Two men in a black van come to the green valley in Wales where Owen Tudor's family have farmed for a thousand years. They plan to flood the valley for Birmingham's water supply, and Owen can do nothing to stop them. Or can he? Shortlisted for the 1991 Tir na n-Og Award.
My Mother’s Daughter
Enid RichemontRed Fox 1990 14+ 9780099855101
Location: Black Mountains, Brecon Beacons
Themes: Family life - Coming-of-age - Relationships
16-year-old Cealie resents looking the way her mother wants her to. She rebels by cutting off her long hair and then runs away to her aunt's remote cottage in the Black Mountains of Wales. There, posing as a boy, she finds independence - and makes a startling discovery about her mother. Shortlisted for the 1991 Tir na n-Og Award.
The Shining Company
Rosemary SutcliffFarrar, Straus and Giroux 1990 9+ 9780374466169
Themes: Adventure - Heroism – History
Life is secure and peaceful for young Prosper, second son of Gerontius, until the day Prince Gorthyn arrives with his hunting party. Prosper's unusual daring in the hunt catches the prince's attention, and he promises to make Prosper his shield-bearer when he comes of age. Shortlisted for the 1991 Tir na n-Og Award.
I can move the sea
Gillian Clarke (Jenny Fell)Pont@Lolfa 9+ 9781859022795
Themes: Poetry
A collection of 100 poems by children arranged into seven thematic sections. Shortlisted for the 1997 Tir na n-Og Award.
1990 Winners and Earlier
1990 – Award withheld
1989 – Award withheld
1988 – Steel Town Cats, Celia Lucas
Tabb House, 9780907018575
1987 – The Snow Spider, Jenny Nimmo
Methuen Children’s, 9780416064926
1986 – Region of the Summer Stars, Frances Thomas
Alun Books, 9780907117438
1985 – Award withheld
1984 – The Prize, Irma Chilton
Barn Owl Press, 9780907117292
1983 – Bluestones, Mary John
Barn Owl Press, 9780907117278
1982 – Award withheld
1981 – The Blindfold Track, Frances Thomas
Macmillan Children’s Books, 9780333273838
1980 – Award withheld
1979 – Time Circles, Bette Meyrick
Abelard-Schuman, 9780200725613
1978 – Silver on the Tree, Susan Cooper
Chatto & Windus, 9780140311181
1977 – A String in the Harp, Nancy Bond
Atheneum Books, 9780689500367
1976 – The Grey King, Susan Cooper
Chatto & Windus, 9780140309522
