Illustrator Emma Carlisle shortlisted for Waterstones book prize

Emma Carlisle is on the shortlist for Waterstones’ 2023 Children’s Book Prize in the illustrated books category.

She was nominated for her book What Do You See When You Look At a Tree?

Emma's new book has seen her nominated for an award (Image: NQ)

“I am thrilled to be shortlisted for this year's Waterstones Book Prize,” said Emma. “As a student and aspiring illustrator, it's something you dream of, and I am so proud that What Do You See When You Look at a Tree? has been included in this year's shortlist.”

Every year, Waterstones’ expert booksellers vote for the books they believe are the very best in new children’s writing and illustration.

Last year, The Last Bear by Hannah Gold shot to the top of the bestseller charts after being announced as Waterstones Children’s Book Prize Winner 2022 and saw an increase in sales of 434% across the Waterstones estate.

'Small moment in day-to-day life'

Emma, who is originally from Malvern and now lives in Plymouth, is a lecturer in children’s illustration at the University of Plymouth.

Encouraging both empathy and an understanding of nature and the environment, What Do You See When You Look At a Tree? boasts stunning watercolour images, hand-finished artwork and thoughtful, perceptive text.

Emma credits learning to slow down and appreciate the natural world around her as inspiration for her work.

“I love noticing small moments in day-to-day life, especially how the seasons change throughout the year,” she said, “the first flowers of spring and the blue summer skies, how mushrooms sprout during autumn, and how our breath plumes in winter.” 

Florentyna Martin, Waterstones’ head of children’s, said: “Books have the magical power to aid personal development in safe, supportive spaces, whether readers are exploring on the page or visiting a bookshop.

“With the rise in mental health topics in children’s books, and studies showing the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and social media on young people’s wellbeing, it is notable that we see reflections on mental health and identity on the shortlists. Our booksellers have chosen a list of exceptional new writing that offers something for everyone.”

The shortlists consist of 18 books across three categories. Six books will compete within each category to be crowned category winner, with the three category winners then vying for the overall title of Waterstones Children’s Book Prize Winner 2023.