Shortlists 2025

The Excelsior Award is split up into four different shortlists:

• Excelsior Award White, for students aged 9 and over (Key Stage 2)

• Excelsior Award Blue, for students aged 11 and over (Key Stage 3)

• Excelsior Award Red, for students aged 14 and over (Key Stage 4)

• Excelsior Award Black, for students aged 16 and over (Sixth Form)

Each shortlist consists of five books (graphic novels and/or manga) that will cost no more than £75. 

Click on the logos below to see the full shortlists for 2025.