Poet and author, Michael Rosen, best known for his much-loved children’s books including We’re Going on a Bear Hunt has won the 2026 Hans Christian Andersen award for writing, in recognition of his lifelong contributions to children’s literature.
The award is named in honour of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen who is remembered for his literary fairy tales such as The Little Mermaid, The Little Match Girl, and The Ugly Duckling.
During his career, Rosen has penned more than 200 books for children and adults with titles including: Chocolate Cake and Michael Rosen’s Sad Book. Rosen never shies away from exploring difficult topics, even in his children’s writing which can be seen in titles like Sticky McStickstick, a story about his recovery from Covid19, and One Day: A True Story of Courage and Survival in the Holocaust. The former children’s laureate has now become the fourth British person to win the award, following Eleanor Farjeon, Aidan Chambers and David Almond.
Rosen’s writing “reflects the rhythms of children’s language and thought, combining playfulness with emotional depth and social awareness”, said the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), who announce a winner every other year. “Across poetry, novels and non-fiction, his work invites children into literature, encourages empathy and opens space for discussion about history, family, loss, identity and society.”
The IBBY also announced the winner of the Hans Christian Andersen award for illustration; Chinese illustrator, Cai Gao. Gao’s work “demonstrates outstanding artistic quality and a unique visual language that expands the possibilities of illustration for children”.
Rosen was reportedly selected from a pool of 78 candidates across 44 different countries and assessed on the “distinctive literary and artistic qualities” of his writing and ability to “see the child’s point of view and to stretch their curiosity”, among other factors. The awards ceremony for both Rosen and Gao will take place in August in Ottawa.
