Griffin Books has been named UK Children’s Bookseller of the Year in the 2026 British Book Awards!!!
The ‘Nibbies’, as the awards are known in the industry, were announced at a glittering ceremony in London on Monday evening. Griffin Books was also a finalist for the Independent Bookshop of the Year award, having already been named Wales Bookshop of the Year in March.
Mel Griffin, the owner of Griffin Books, said: “The award for Children’s Bookseller of the Year is particularly special as it comes almost exactly a year to the day since we expanded the shop to open our new and much bigger Children’s and Teen section. Taking on the next door unit was not without its risks in this current economic climate; however our loyal customers have continued to support us every step of the way. We’ve been able to build on our provision for younger readers, offering a much wider and more diverse range of books, working more closely with schools and creating new initiatives such as our Young Ambassadors scheme. I’m so proud of my amazing team, whose passion and commitment have made this possible.”
We doubled the footprint of our shop when we expanded in May 2025, creating a bright and welcoming space for children and teens. Our work in the local community was noted by the judges, including running two Book Clubs for young people, a weekly Storytime for toddlers, school events, donating to local charities and most recently sponsoring local girls football team, Cogan Coronation FC Under 11s.
We have a busy programme of events ahead, with the Penarth Literary Festival taking place from 19-21 June and a signing with Alice Oseman - global bestselling author/illustrator of the Heartstopper series - at the shop on Friday 3 July.
Thank you for all of the lovely messages of congratulations we have received since the announcement, our customers really are the best!