A Year in Review- Books!

January is traditionally a month when we review the previous year, remembering highlights and favorite things. In many fields, awards are given to the “best of the best.” The field of children’s literature is no exception: two of the most famous awards in children’s literature are announced in January. The Caldecott Medal is given to the illustrator of the “most distinguished” picture book, and the Newbery Medal is awarded to the author of the book with the “most distinguished” writing. Both of these medals are awarded by the American Library Association. Both medals have a first-place award, as well as a second-place honor award. Most years, several books share the honor award; with the wealth of children’s literature available today, it’s not hard to imagine how difficult it would be to narrow the list of award winners! Requirements for both awards include that the author or illustrator be a U.S. citizen or resident. Also, the book must have been published during the year previous to the award.

.

 The Caldecott Medal was first awarded to an illustrator in 1938. The award is named for 19^th-century English children’s book illustrator Randolph Caldecott, a beloved illustrator and early advocate of children’s literature. Caldecott Award winners from the past include such favorites as Make Way for Ducklings (1942), Madeline’s Rescue (1954), Where the Wild Things Are (1964), and Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears (1976). More recent winners include Snowflake Bentley (1999), The Hello, Goodbye Window (2006), The Invention of Hugo Cabret (2008), and The House in the Night (2009). All of these titles are a treat for the eyes, and provide an easy way to introduce young children to fabulous art. The stories in these books also happen to be ones you don’t want your child to miss. The Invention of Hugo Cabret (recently made into a movie) is a rare exception—it’s a book for older readers, but the art work is integral to the story.

The Newbery Medal was first awarded to a children’s writer in 1922. This award is named for 19th-century English children’s publisher and bookseller John Newbery. Like Randolph Caldecott, John Newbery was one of the earliest supporters of children’s literature. Still-popular Newbery award favorites from earlier days include The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle (1923), Rabbit Hill (1945), King of the Wind (1949), and From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler (1968). More recent Newbery winners include Shiloh (1992), Holes (1999), The Tale of Despereaux (2004), and When You Reach Me (2010). These are stories that bring inspiration and enjoyment to generation after generation of young readers. These are stories by writers who are passionate about the art of literature and passionate about having a positive influence on the lives of their young readers.

 

Watch for official announcements of the 2012 Caldecott and Newbery Award winners on Monday, January 23, 2012.

Submitted by: Lin Brooks- Librarian at The Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes