The Grandest Bookshop in the World by Amelia Mellor is one of the six books shortlisted for this year’s Readings Children’s Book Prize.

Here’s everything you need to know about this magical adventure set in Melbourne’s famous Cole’s Book Arcade in 1893.

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‘Well-researched and captivating, this middle-grade novel seamlessly weaves in historical detail of the real Cole family and 1800s Melbourne around a fast-paced series of challenges to defeat the Obscurosmith. Amelia Mellor’s writing is imaginative and beautiful, and she captures the motivations of each Cole family member as they consider just how much they have to lose. This is an entrancing read that makes bookshops feel even more magical than they already are!’

– Clare Millar, Chair of the judging panel

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Who should read this book?

The Grandest Bookshop in the World is suitable for ages 9+. Readers who love thrilling fantasy stories, foreboding villains, fascinating real-life historical details and sibling adventures will love this unique book.

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Look out for…

Amelia is writing a prequel to The Grandest Bookshop in the World, set in 1871 in Paddy’s Market – the dark and strange predecessor of Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market. Keep your eyes peeled for this one!

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Meet the author…

Amelia is an English teacher in regional Victoria. She studied creative writing at university and wrote her thesis on teen fantasy fiction. When she isn’t writing, Amelia enjoys hiking, gardening and drawing. If you’d like to hear a really cool interview with her, head over to the Perfectly imperfect girls podcast. Ten-year-old hosts Sarah and Francesca ask great questions!

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The winner of the 2021 Readings Children’s Book Prize will be announced in April. You can read more about this year’s shortlisted titles here.