Former bingo caller wins prestigious book prize
25.05.2023 - 12:59
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
A former bingo caller from Manchester has done the city proud by winning a prestigious award for his book. Author Jarvis, from Salford, was presented the Oscar's book prize by HRH Princess Beatrice on the tenth anniversary of the awards.
Six other publications were up for the award however, Jarvis's book 'The Boy With Flowers In His Hair' won over the judges.
Read more: Join the FREE Manchester Evening News WhatsApp community
As well as the Oscar's award, Jarvis took home a £10,000 literary prize. Jarvis joins the likes of Elizabeth Gaskell, Thomas De Quincey and Francis Burnett after winning the prestigious award.
The Boy With Flowers In His Hair is a picture book aimed at children.
Oscar's book prize was originally created by James Ashton and Viveka Alvestrand. Both created the award to celebrate children's stories from around the world to give them recognition.
This was done in honour of their son, Oscar, who unfortunately passed away when he was three years old due to an undetected heart condition in December 2012.
Jarvis said when he won: "I could not be more delighted to have won this year’s Oscar’s Book Prize, and taking a look around the room and the incredibly talented authors and illustrators also shortlisted, it truly is an honour.
"I’ve always believed that picture books are a piece of art that everyone can own. This award celebrates the art and joy in children’s books and I am so pleased that my book, which focuses on poignant issues surrounding vulnerability and friendship, has been received so well.”
Jarvis had originally studied design at Salford University and was working on multiple creative projects. He previously had a part time job at a bingo hall before his success as an author.
He said: "(It)