Otherlands: An Illustrated Journey Through Earth’s Lost Worlds by Thomas Halliday, illustrated by Gavin Scott (Puffin) has been crowned The Children’s Wainwright Prize Book of the Year 2026.

Awarded annually since 2014, The Wainwright Prize showcases exceptional writing that celebrates nature, nurtures respect for our planet and highlights the latest thinking on environmental issues.

To be declared this year’s Children’s Wainwright Prize Book of the Year, Otherlands had first to be chosen as the winner of the Children’s Non-Fiction category from a shortlist of seven titles, before going on to beat the winners of the Children’s Fiction and Picture Book categories.

Described by the judges as a ‘breakthrough children’s classic that will endure for decades’, Otherlands is an illustrated journey into Earth’s pre-history that introduces young people to the plants, trees and creatures that once inhabited our planet. Also Highly Commended in the Children’s Non-Fiction category was The Cave Explorer by Kate Winter (Puffin).

The Children’s Wainwright Prize for Fiction was won by The Danger of Small Things by Caryl Lewis (Simon & Schuster Children’s Books), a vividly imagined tale of a young girl fighting for her survival in a dystopian future where honeybees have died out. Also Highly Commended in the Children’s Fiction category was The Adventures of Portly the Otter: Untold Tales from the Wind in the Willows by M.G. Leonard, illustrated by Polly Dunbar (HarperCollins Children’s Books).

The winner of this year’s Children’s Wainwright Prize for Picture Books is The Great Bear by Annie Booker (Two Hoots), a lyrical story that blends mythic storytelling and stunning illustrations to deliver a powerful environmental message. Also Highly Commended was Isla and the Sky by Greg Stobbs (Oxford University Press).

The 2026 Wainwright Prize Book of the Year (adult) was The Book of Birds by Jackie Morris and Robert Macfarlane (Hamish Hamilton).

Commenting on this year’s awards, Alastair Giles, Director of The Wainwright Prize, said: ‘Warmest congratulations to all our longlisted, shortlisted, and winning authors and illustrators. This year’s entries once again show just how vital and vibrant nature and conservation writing has become, not only as a form of creative expression, but as a force for change. As environmental and social challenges grow ever more urgent, it’s inspiring to see writers using their voices to deepen our connection with the natural world. The Wainwright Prize continues to champion those who remind us that storytelling can be a powerful step towards awareness, action, and ultimately, hope.’