People like learning about history - its official. Time and again history is rated as a popular topic for television documentaries, radio programmes and the factual book lists. Historians are becoming celebrities just as 10 years ago chefs were. One of its strengths is that historical knowledge can be learnt at any age and in many different ways, from real life testimony to fictional accounts. One of its weaknesses is that myths and untruths about historical events or people can be become just as accepted as real facts. That is why authors who write historical fiction and do it well should be acknowledged and promoted. If those authors also help capture the imagination of young audiences, making the past real and accessible they and their work should be celebrated.

That is the purpose behind the Young Quills, an award that is all about historical fiction that is enjoyed by young people. New publications of historical fiction written specifically for a younger audience are selected each year to be reviewed by young people themselves. From their reading and discussion two shortlists are made, the best of primary historical fiction and the best of secondary historical fiction.

Importantly for young people nominate, review and shortlist the publications they have enjoyed. Only then do adult judges get involved with the final decisions - just to make sure on historical accuracy and to bring together the views of the young reviewers.

Over the three years that the awards have been running, more and more young people have got involved and the quality and honesty of their reviews is illuminating. They are quite discerning critics and will not be fobbed off with either bad writing or historical poppycock.

If you want to see what sets young people's imaginations racing or just want to some guidance on a birthday present check out the reviews - you might even like the books yourself.

Previous winners have included Jacqueline Wilson. The final winners will be announced in June - and it's sure to be exciting.