Brighton author Patrice Lawrence named new Children's Laureate
She's best known for her acclaimed book Orangeboy
Brighton-born author Patrice Lawrence has been announced as the new Children's Laureate for 2026-2028.
Recognised for her best-selling young adult book Orangeboy, Lawrence will assume the prestigious role, succeeding Frank Cottrell-Boyce at a ceremony at the Barbican Centre in London on Tuesday.
The Children's Laureate, managed by BookTrust and sponsored by Waterstones, plays a vital part in promoting children's literature and reading, while celebrating creativity and storytelling.
Lawrence aims to foster a national conversation about the benefits of shared reading experiences, noting her plans to work with BookTrust to explore how books enable community cohesion.
She said: “My aim is to create a national conversation that champions the benefits of shared reading and sociable reading experiences.
“Alongside BookTrust, I’ll explore how books and reading together help communities connect and cohere, especially in times of fragmentation.
“I’ll work with children and adults with diverse experiences and from diverse backgrounds, children and adults who may feel undervalued in our society, to tell their stories. And, I want to celebrate the unsung heroes who bring joy and nurture reading communities through their work.”
Lawrence has made significant contributions to literature with her novels often reflecting the real-world experiences of young people, focusing on themes of inclusivity and diverse family structures.
Her debut novel Orangeboy, published in 2016, chronicles the life of 16-year-old Marlon amidst a troubling tragedy. The story won several accolades, including The Bookseller’s YA Book Prize and the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize for Older Children's Fiction.
Her repertoire continues to grow with 16 published works, including titles such as Needle, People Like Stars and Granny Came Here on the Empire Windrush.
Diana Gerald, co-chief executive at BookTrust, highlighted the importance of Lawrence’s appointment: "In this National Year of Reading, the appointment of Patrice Lawrence as Children’s Laureate gives a much-needed voice to the vulnerable children pushed to the edge of our society.”
Lawrence, who was made an MBE in 2021 and elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 2023, follows other distinguished Children's Laureates including Sir Quentin Blake and Dame Jacqueline Wilson.
Kate Edwards, chair of the judging panel, praised Lawrence’s ability to address complex issues in her writing, providing a safe space for children to explore these themes.
Lawrence’s tenure will focus on how sharing stories can strengthen community connections and wellbeing.