We are excited to reveal the shortlist for the First Chapter Awards, celebrating emerging talent in the book community. These awards recognise early-stage professionals, volunteers, and aspiring individuals across various roles, including librarians, content creators, publishers, and booksellers.
A massive well done to our shortlist! Our winners will be announced shortly in advance of the SYP London Conference on 30 November 2024.
In no particular order:
Children’s Librarian GLL Wandsworth (Roehampton Library)
CILIP YLG SE Chairperson/ The DBA 2024 Shortlisting Judge/ SPARK! Book Award 2025 Judge/ BBC 500 Words Judge
October Jones is a passionate and dedicated children’s librarian with a deep commitment to their literary community. Starting as a library assistant in 2023, they were promoted to Children’s Librarian by 2024. October transformed Downham Library with The Bigger Picture initiative, introducing the community to comics and graphic novels. Known for championing spooky books, October also organises borough-wide programs benefiting children, young people, and families, and regularly contributes to literary festivals and events.
Senior Production Editor at Boydell & Brewer
Christy Beale joined the industry in 2021 and has been promoted to Senior Production Editor. Christy Beale advocates for accessibility in ePubs, ensuring compliance with WCAG and the European Accessibility Act. An active member of the DEI committee, Christy fosters an inclusive workplace culture and drives employee engagement initiatives.
Assistant Editor, Methuen Drama in Bloomsbury
Sam Nicholls is a passionate advocate for Global Majority writers in publishing, driving real change in just three years. He has implemented new budgeting methods, decolonised commissioning, and centred diverse voices in marketing. As a key player in the Runnymede Trust’s Lit in Colour initiative, Sam supports educators and amplifies marginalised playwrights.
Sales Executive, Facet Publishing
Tara Hiralal is a dedicated sales publishing professional at Facet Publishing, focusing on rights management and revenue growth due to a lack of rights department in the company. She developed a Rights Guide, supports all team members, and manages the royalty run. Tara is actively involved in mentoring, aims to become a Sales and Rights Manager, and aspires to open her own publishing house.
Founder and Owner, Shelf Editions.
Helen Hancocks, founder of Shelf Editions in Lincoln, is a passionate bookseller and illustrator. She champions picture books for all ages, curates unique titles, and supports local events like the Lincoln Book Festival. Helen also publishes The Shelf Review magazine, fostering connections between illustrators, authors, and the community through workshops and exhibitions.
Volunteer
Eiman Munro is a community leader passionate about preserving heritage and amplifying Iraqi voices. She co-founded Hidden Histories CIC and secured over £70,000 in funding for Iraqi writers in Brent. Eiman supports aspiring writers through workshops and publishing projects, ensuring their stories are celebrated for future generations. She also volunteers with her local library to deliver books to those with access needs.
Editor, Pan Macmillan.
Ause Abdelhaq is a passionate book editor amplifying underrepresented voices. He has acquired impactful works, including Chris Smalls’ memoir, The Eyes of Gaza, and The Glass Cliff. Ause advocates for workplace inclusion, serving on Pan Macmillan’s RISE Network board, mentoring young professionals, and championing equal opportunities and fair wages.
Owner of Blue Sheep Books
Sorina Marinescu is the founder of Blue Sheep Books in Wednesbury, where she turned her passion for reading into a thriving community hub. After leaving her stable job during the pandemic, she started selling books online and opened her brick-and-mortar store to support those in a deprived area in the West Midlands. As a proud LGBT+ advocate, Sorina creates a safe space for underrepresented voices and provides opportunities for local youth through work experience and affordable books for schools, believing that access to literature is essential for all children.
Editorial Co-ordinator at Manchester University Press
Laura Swift is an Editorial Coordinator at Manchester University Press, progressing from Editorial Assistant in three years. Passionate about equity in publishing, they lead accessibility and diversity initiatives, developing a Higher Education list focused on social justice. Laura actively mentors junior staff and aims to enhance MUP’s commitment to accessibility and social justice.