81 books were nominated by their publishers and over 350 pupils from 12 high schools began the mammoth task of reading and reviewing them all in September 2002. In November and then again in February, the schools met to discuss the 81 nominees before finally choosing 10 books that would go forward to make this excellent shortlist.

One dedicated reader from each school was put forward to form the judging panel who read all 10 short listed books and met in May to chose a final winner.

"The University of Central Lancashire is delighted to sponsor the Lancashire Children's Book Award. Reading is not only a lifelong pleasure: it unlocks our capacity for imagination and understanding. As a university dedicated to lifelong learning, we are pleased to be associated with an Award that encourages enthusiasm for reading and critical judgement in equal measure"
Malcolm McVicar, Vice-Chancellor.