Publishers submitted an unprecedented number of books for the prestigious UKLA Academic Book Award 2015. The panel- teachers, consultants, librarians and HE tutors- discussed a strong field of entries from a range of academic publishers. After much debate, seven titles were chosen for the shortlist. Subjects range from dialogic talk to diversity, from critical thinking through picture books to teaching Caribbean poetry, and from new literacies around the globe to building communities of readers and looking back at research into literacy over many years All evidence a passion for the teaching of English, all make distinctive contributions to the field. The final panel has a difficult task ahead!The winner will be announced during the UKLA International Conference to be held at the National College for Teaching and Leadership, in Nottingham from July 10 to 12 July 2015.