The winners of the first ever British Audio Awards were announced at a star-studded ceremony at the Royal Opera House in London on 24th November.

Launched by The Bookseller and sister publication The Stage, The British Audio Awards or ‘Speakies’ were set up to celebrate excellence in audiobooks and audio drama, recognising the work of the writers, narrators, producers and creative teams that bring stories to life through sound.

The Speakies highlight work across 17 different categories, including Best Audiobook: Children’s and Best Audiobook: Young Adult.

The winner of the Best Audiobook: Children’s category was Miffy Story Time Collection by Dick Bruno, narrated by Hannah Melbourne (Yoto). With original music from Louie Taylor and the Northern Film Orchestra, the judges praised the ‘time, energy and investment’ that went into the project, adding, ‘It’s a beautiful production that feels right in keeping with the books.’

Different for Boys by Patrick Ness, narrated by Alex Wingfield (Bolinda Audio) was crowned the winner of the Best Audiobook: Young Adult category. The judges praised the ‘beautiful intensity’ of Alex Wingfield’s narration and the sensitive adaptation of this moving LGBTQ+ story, saying: ‘Audiobooks can sometimes feel a bit clinical, but this is moving and powerful… it also reaches people who wouldn’t be able to access the story, which is a massive thing.’

Miffy Story Time Collection and Different for Boys were chosen from a shortlist of six and five titles respectively by a panel of judges made up of experts, artists, celebrities and influencers.

Commenting on the awards, Philip Jones, editor of The Bookseller said: ‘I am delighted with our winners for this first year. Audio storytelling – across drama and books – is having a moment, as listener interest grows, investment across platforms and talent increases and excellence across disciplines rises to the occasion. Bringing this all together under one awards banner for the first time, with all of the talents recognised, truly has been a joy to behold.’

For the full list of winners, visit the British Audio Awards website.