Amy X

The remote island of Pompolonia is so small that it’s not even on most maps. But what it lacks in size it makes up for in tradition. Each year, a Great Race is run, from the white sands of Octopus Bay, all the way up the mountain to Lake Pomp, a volcanic crater at the island’s summit. All islanders turning 12 are compelled to race. With no exceptions.

The winners always come from one of the seven "Great Houses", and this year will be no different. The King’s own beloved daughter is set to take part, and the outcome is assured. Such is tradition. But somebody forgot to tell Amy X, a Lowland so poor that she can’t even afford a last name, let alone shoes to run in. Amy has her own ideas and her own dreams and they are every bit as precious as any Princess’s.

For one hundred years, the great families of Pompolonia have had it all their own way. But this year things will be different. This year, a scrawny girl with no shoes and hardly any name will give them a real run for their money.

WINNER of The Story for Children Competition – Wells Festival of Literature 2016