I can’t quite believe it, but The Highland Falcon Thief has scooped the British Book Awards’ prize for Children’s Fiction Book of the Year!

Winning this award is the most incredible honour. It’s the most prestigious award in the publishing industry, and for my very first novel to be recognised this way is truly something incredible. The Nibbies are considered the Oscars of the book world, and it brings me so much joy to know that mine and Maya’s story has been embraced so wholeheartedly by the industry, and taken to heart by readers in such a difficult year.

Maya and I were quite emotional when we heard the news, and through the magic of video you can watch the moment for yourselves below. We’re the first award of the night, about seven minutes in. Sir Lenny Henry himself announced the result.