The former children’s laureate missed the announcement of the award in Bologna due to post-Brexit passport rule changes
Michael Rosen, the poet and author known for books such as We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and Chocolate Cake, has won the 2026 Hans Christian Andersen award for writing in recognition of his lifelong contributions to children’s literature.
The former children’s laureate is the fourth Briton 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 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.”
IBBY also announced the winner of the Hans Christian Andersen award for illustration. Chinese illustrator Cai Gao, whose work “demonstrates outstanding artistic quality and a unique visual language that expands the possibilities of illustration for children”, took the prize. Previous winners include Quentin Blake, the former children’s laureate best known for illustrating Roald Dahl’s children’s books, who received the honour in 2002.
