British Book Awards accolade for indie Ripon bookshop that is 'adored by children'
A Ripon couple whose much-loved independent bookshop has been praised for “enriching the lives of so many people” have been nominated in the 2026 British Book Awards.
Husband and wife Simon and Gill Edwards are among ten nominees vying for the Children’s Bookseller of the Year title.
Nick-named the Nibbies, rivals in the awards include fellow independents from across the UK, as well as the slightly bigger Waterstones with its chain of more than 300 stores.
The couple first opened The Little Ripon Bookshop in 2009 and quickly became known for imaginative window displays and fun literary events.
Their efforts at at 12-14 Westgate caught the eye of judges in the British Book Awards, which are sponsored by Macmillan Children’s Books.
"It is a great honour for us to be shortlisted, when considering how many booksellers there are in the UK and Ireland,” Simon told Tim Flanagan of the Rejoicing in Ripon blog.
“The Nibbies, with its nib-shaped golden trophies, is like the book industry’s Oscars.”
The past 17 years has seen The Little Ripon Bookshop become the go-to place for people of all ages looking for a good read.
While offering the shop’s adult readers a strong choice of fiction and non-fiction titles written by upcoming, established and celebrity authors, Gill and Simon have also created an Aladdin’s cave packed full of books to inspire children.
Gill said: “When we opened in 2009 our objective was to bring enjoyment to Ripon’s high street and offer a safe and attractive place for children to browse and buy books.
“We think it’s important everyone sees books and make their own choices, sometimes with our help, but often that’s not needed.”
The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony in London’s JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel on May 11.
Lilla Bathurst, manager of Ripon BID, said: “Simon and Gill are BID members whose tremendous business enriches the lives of so many people.
“Their community focus and outreach, particularly to families with young children, is exceptional and we wish them all the very best in the awards.”
More information at: https://www.littleriponbookshop.co.uk/