‘A Pirates’ Pact’ by Sarah Branson Wins Gold Medal in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

[April 3, 2026] — The Wishing Shelf Book Awards has announced that A Pirates’ Pact, a middle-grade adventure novel by award-winning author Sarah Branson, has been named a Gold Medal Winner in the children’s books category for ages 9–12.

The Wishing Shelf Book Awards are unique in that children’s titles are read and judged by students from eight UK primary and secondary schools. Entries are assessed on editing, theme, style, cover design, and, where applicable, illustrations—making the recognition especially meaningful for authors writing for young readers.

A Pirates’ Pact is a richly imagined adventure that blends action with themes of identity, family, and self-discovery. The story follows nearly eleven-year-old twins Kik and Mac, who live on the pirate island of Bosch. As they grapple with friendship, heritage, and growing up, a fractured family heirloom reveals a hidden piece of a pirate treasure map—launching the brothers on a journey that tests their bond and reshapes their understanding of family.

For more information about the Wishing Shelf Book Awards and the full list of winners, visit: https://www.thewsa.co.uk/winners2025/

About the Author

Sarah Branson is an award-winning author whose work spans speculative fiction, adventure, and coming-of-age storytelling. Her writing reflects a deep appreciation for resilience, human connection, and the strength of the human spirit. Her debut novel, A Merry Life, received multiple accolades, including the 2022 Connecticut Adult Fiction Award from the Indie Author Project and a 2022 Kindle Book Award for science fiction. A Merry Life is the first book in The Pirates of New Earth series. Branson is also the author of Unfurling the Sails and For The Love of Glitter.

To learn more, visit SarahBranson.com