Against diverse settings that range from 15^th century Spain, 19^th century England and 19th century France, to Zimbabwe in the 1980s, 18^th century England, and an imaginary planet, light years away from Earth, the six shortlisted books consider the qualities that unify us as human beings, despite the longest of odds and the fiercest of enmities. By showing how entrenched beliefs can be overturned and moral dilemmas resolved, they demonstrate the value of integrity, and generate a sense of hope through rich story-telling of outstanding quality.

The winner will be announced on 23rd June.