The 35th British Book Awards celebrated excellence in publishing on May 12 at London’s Grosvenor House, with Bloomsbury and Nosy Crow taking home the top trade honors. Known as the “Nibbies,” this iconic awards night highlighted the strength and creativity of the book industry, honoring authors, publishers, editors, designers, and booksellers across more than 30 categories.
Each year, the British Book Awards shine a spotlight on the best books of the year and the people behind them—from powerful storytelling to innovative publishing strategies.
Bloomsbury Wins Publisher of the Year
In a landmark moment, Bloomsbury’s adult division was named Publisher of the Year—the first time in over two decades that the company has earned this prestigious title. Bloomsbury’s continued rise has been evident, with 2024 showing an 8% increase in adult division sales and an 18% boost in ebook performance, according to Bookstat.
The publisher also won Publicity Campaign of the Year for Want by Gillian Anderson and Anonymous, led by Fran Owen and her team. With consistent shortlisting across past years, this recognition reflects Bloomsbury’s lasting impact and leadership in adult publishing and its growing catalog of award winning books.
Nosy Crow Named Children’s Publisher of the Year
Independent powerhouse Nosy Crow secured Children’s Publisher of the Year, honoring its exceptional contributions to children’s literature and educational titles. Known for its creative publishing approach and child-focused storytelling, Nosy Crow continues to shape the future of young readers—delivering award winning books that both educate and inspire.
Margaret Atwood Receives the Freedom to Publish Award
A highlight of the evening was the Freedom to Publish Award, which went to Margaret Atwood, recognizing her lifelong commitment to literature and free expression. Atwood, via video, voiced concern about the growing threat to words and ideas in today’s polarized society, stating, “In a free world, publishers and booksellers stand for the many.”
Her remarks struck a powerful chord, reinforcing the purpose behind the evening: protecting the power of the written word in a time of global uncertainty.
Standout Winners in Trade Honors
The British Book Awards are as much a celebration of behind-the-scenes excellence as they are of the best books of the year. Here are some of the notable trade winners:
- Marketing Strategy of the Year: The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley, Spectre (Hodder & Stoughton)
- Imprint of the Year: Bookouture, Hachette UK
- Literary Agent of the Year: Amanda Harris, Maven Literary Management
- Book Retailer of the Year: Waterstones
- Independent Publishers of the Year (Joint): Boldwood Books and Magic Cat Publishing
- Editor of the Year: Isabel Wall, Penguin General/Viking
- Designer of the Year: Kishan Rajani, Faber/Freelance
A Night That Honors the Business of Books
British Book Awards director and Bookseller editor Philip Jones summed up the ceremony perfectly:
“This is a business that stands for reading and its value to society.”
The 2025 Nibbies not only celebrated creativity and craftsmanship but stood as a powerful reminder of publishing’s role in cultural and political dialogue. From AI disruptions to challenges to freedom of speech, the night acknowledged the resilience of the book industry—and its power to influence change.
Whether you’re a reader, writer, or industry professional, the British Book Awards offer a curated look into the year’s most impactful voices and award winning books that continue to shape the literary world.