The shortlist for the highly regarded Klaus Flugge Prize is announced today (Thursday 14 May). Established in 2016, the Klaus Flugge Prize is awarded to the most promising and exciting newcomer to children’s picture book illustration and was set up to honour Klaus Flugge, founder of Andersen Press and a hugely influential figure in the world of children’s publishing.

Now in its eleventh year, the £5,000 prize is the only one specifically to recognise a published picture book by a debut illustrator.

From a longlist of 18, the panel of judges have chosen six to shortlist and praised the illustrators for their skill and originality and for the inventiveness of their storytelling.

Their books’ subjects are very varied, and topics include a magical island that finds a way to slow down its residents; a dog creating amazing artwork from materials he has to hand; seven very active little babies; a family constantly on the move; and a little girl finding ways to cope when her parents separate. There is also an information picture book on the list, telling the true story of Ferdinand Magellan and his epic journey.