YOUNGSTERS named their author of the year at an awards ceremony.
The Stockton Children's Book of the Year Award 2004 took place at the town's central library this week.
About 1,000 children from 25 schools across the borough chose their favourite author after reading a selection of five books.
The contenders were: Graham Taylor who wrote Shadowmancer, Georgia Byng for Molly Moon's Incredible Book of Hypnotism, Mary Hoffman for City of Masks, Cressida Cowell, author of How to Train Your Dragon, and Laura Matthews for Fish.
Before the ceremony, youngsters were given the chance to meet the short-listed authors at organised sessions in local libraries.
Sue Anderson, Stockton library and information services manager, said: "This event, now in its eighth year, goes from strength to strength and shows what can be achieved when librarians, authors, parents, teachers, schoolchildren and our sponsors work together to foster a love of books and the sheer pleasure of reading.
"It supports, enhances and encourages reading, making a difference to the lives of young people. This educational yet fun event helps stimulate the imagination and develop creativity."
The winner of the award was Georgia Byng.
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