Rachel Ng, a recent BA (Hons) Illustration graduate from Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) has been highly commended in the 2025 FAB Prize, run by Faber, one of the world’s great independent publishing houses.
Announced at an award ceremony on 20 November at The Bindery in London, the FAB Prize aims to discover and showcase new talent from creatives of colour, including writers and illustrators, enriching the publishing industry and community.
Rachel, a young illustrator originally from Hong Kong, was highly commended for her illustrated picture book, The Everyday Bus!
“This is an original story about everyday life on the everyday bus,” she explains. “It’s inspired by friends and family; it explores stereotypes, the contrast between a person’s appearance and their hidden characteristics and stories behind every stranger on the bus.”
Rachel is becoming known for her bold, vibrant characters, brought to life with heartwarming and expressive editorial illustrations.
“Being highly commended by FAB means so much to me. As a new illustrator starting out in the industry, this recognition for my work gave me confidence in continuing to create children’s picture books – it is a small step moving forward into the publishing industry.”
Chitra Soundar, FAB Prize guest judge, says, “The judging of this year’s entries was entirely delightful and immensely difficult. The submissions were infused with imagination and talent and there is no doubt in my mind that all of the entrants can forge a unique path in children’s publishing.”
Find out more about Rachel and see The Everyday Bus! on her website.
