A BOOK written by a 16-year-old naturalist is among those shortlisted for this year's Wainwright Prize.

The literary award, named after Alfred Wainwright, highlights UK authors who have inspired readers to explore the outdoors and to nurture a respect for the natural world.

Now in its seventh year, the UK Nature Writing Prize has been extended for the first time to include a second category for Writing on Global Conservation.

In total 13 authors have been shortlisted for their work across the two awards.

Among them Dara McAnulty, a teenager from Northern Ireland, whose debut book Diary of a Young Naturalist has received critical acclaim. It is a memoir about his connection to wildlife and the way he sees the world.

TV presenter Julia Bradbury, chair of the Nature Writing panel of judges, said: “All of the books shortlisted are perfect reading for the coronavirus crisis, and they have helped me and many others during the lockdown.

"I don’t think there has ever been a better time to reconnect and reflect on the importance of nature in all our lives.

"Nature’s restorative effects are renowned and all of the selected books amplify that truth.”