Meg Rosoff has won Britain's most prestigious prize in children's literature today with her novel written for teenagers about death, depression and sex.

The American-born author, who now lives in London, was awarded the CILIP Carnegie Medal for her second book, Just In Case.

She joins the ranks of distinguished writers including CS Lewis, Eleanor Farjeon and David Almond who have won the coveted award, which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year.

Later today the greatest Carnegie-winning author will be announced. The Carnegie of Carnegie’s author was chosen by the public from a shortlist of ten, that included Mary Norton, Alan Garner, and Philip Pullman.

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Rosoff beat competition from the likes of Kevin Brooks, Anne Fine and Marcus Sedgewick as well as talented newcomers Siobhan Dowd and Ally Kennan to this year's award.

The Carnegie does not offer a cash prize, but is sought-after by children's writers because of its unique judging process. Unlike other literary awards, which seek submissions from publishers, the Carnegie is rooted in the professional expertise of librarians across the country, who nominate titles.

Rosoff said: "For a panel of librarians to agree that it deserves this historic medal is just amazing: I'm thrilled, honoured and astonished."

Just In Case tells the story of a 15-year-old boy who believes that fate is out to get him and that the only way he can avoid this is by changing his identity.

“It is an imaginative story of exceptional depth,” said Ian Dodds, chairman of judges. “It also has the power to help teenagers make sense of their lives.”

At the same time, the author-illustrator Mini Grey won the Carnegie’s sister prize, the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal, with her book, The Adventures of the Dish and the Spoon.

Grey has been shortlisted for the award three times in the last four years, but won this year with her story of the adventures of the dish and the spoon after the nursery rhyme ends.

The Kate Greenaway Medal was established in 1956 for outstanding illustration in a children’s book and is judged in the same way. Former winners include, Shirley Hughes, Raymond Briggs and Quentin Blake.

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