New Blood Entry — The Black List
Award: White Pencil
Penguin / 2021
Reading plays a crucial role in the rounded development of young people, however 40% of GCSE students can’t find anything to read that interests them.
The Black List is a movement which lobbies the government for change in the curriculum, by spotlighting marginalised and relatable voices in writing, to encourage young readers (14 to 16). This is done by repositioning writing, in an authentic way, as a method of expression akin to spoken word and rap. We aim to help GCSE students realise that consuming words and stories in many forms can empower them to get their own voice heard.