The winner of the second Derby Children’s Picture Book Award is announced today and is Brian the Brave by Paul Stewart and Jane Porter, published by Otter-Barry.

Jane Porter said of their win: "I was thrilled to bits when I heard the news about the award - it's lovely that Brian has found a place in the hearts of the schoolchildren of Derby. I am very happy to think of my illustrations and Paul's story helping to make the world a more tolerant, inclusive place."

Paul Stewart added: “'I'm absolutely delighted to have won this award with Jane Porter, especially since the winning book was chosen by the children themselves. It makes it all the more special!”

In total 727 children in 27 classes at the eight schools took part in this year’s Award. Each school received sets of the four shortlisted books for each class in February. A further 16 schools ‘shadowed’ the Award and received a set of the books to read with their pupils. In total, 270 books were shared across the schools.

Paul Stewart and Jane Porter plan to visit the participating schools: Becket Primary, Chellaston Infants, Chellaston Juniors, Reigate Park Primary, St Chads Infants, St John Fisher (RC) Primary, Village Primary and the Royal School for the Deaf, to meet the children and teachers when the schools re-open.

Liz Fothergill, Chair of Derby Book Festival said: “Brian the Brave becomes our second very worthy winner. Lovely clear, humorous illustrations dominate in this delightful book which will help children not to fear the differences they see in others but help them understand the value of togetherness as they evaluate the challenges of today’s modern world.

“The Award continues be instrumental in delivering our aim to bring all Derby’s residents together in a love of books and to inspire a new generation of readers to appreciate the joy that books and reading bring to our lives.