I’m thrilled to share that Leo Jantjies and the Esports World Championship has been shortlisted for the Otto Foundation Children’s Book Awards in the Chapter Books & Graphic Novels category!

This recognition not only celebrates the hard work behind the story but also highlights the power of creativity and perseverance in the world of competitive esports.

Here is the full list of nominees in that category:
Chapter Books & Graphic Novels


Hector: A Boy, A Protest, and the Photograph that Changed Apartheid by Adrienne Wright

Pearl of the Sea by Anthony Silverston

The Legend of Mamlambo by Charles Siboto

Leo Jantjies and the Esports World Championship by Sally Partridge

Rodentia by Luke Calder

Tilly & Thandeka: The Star Siblings by Nicole Rimensberger

Marked by Gillian D’achada

One Step at a Time by Gregory Maqoma

The shortlisted titles will be included in the Otto Foundation’s Reading Relay, which is hosted among six schools in the District Six area in Cape Town. Book reviews submitted by participating learners during the relay process will be considered in the final selection of the award winners by an advisory panel.

The Otto Foundation Book Award winners will be announced in January 2025.

Read more here