The American Library Association recently hosted it’s annual midwinter conference and with it came a slate of awards announcements. The Youth Media Awards highlight the best illustrations, middle grade reads, young adult reads, African American authors and illustrators, nonfiction titles, and more. Special committees communicate throughout the year to discuss, dissect, rank, and vote on the best of the best in children’s literature. Every year I wait in anticipation to see what was chosen, if I’ve read it, and how the authors react. It’s very exciting stuff in the kid lit world, and so without further ado, the 2018 Newbery and Caldecott Medal and Honor winners are below!
John Newbery Award – awarded annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children ages 0-14.
Medal Winner
Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly was the the 2018 Newbery Medal Winner. I loved this book and am so glad it was awarded the medal! Quiet, shy Virgil Salinas feels like an outsider at school and at home. Valencia Somerset is a nature enthusiast who loves to explore but feels held back by her parent’s concerns over her deafness. Kaori Tanaka believes in psychic energies and tries to help others find their way. Chet Bullens is a cruel bully at first glance, but hidden depths and context are revealed. In one day the lives of these four kids intersect and impact each other in huge ways. Although, not fast-paced or action oriented these characters stayed with me long after reading. A story that quietly bursts with heart and compassion. Highly recommended!
Honor Books
The diversity represented in the Newbery category this year is spectacular! All of the winning books were written by authors of color and feature characters of color.
Caldecott Medal – awarded annually to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.
Medal Winner
Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell
I remember clearly when I first read through this picture book. It’s a beautiful story of helping, empathy, and finding home. Even more impressive, it conveys that beauty without any text. Author/illustrator Matthew Cordell uses pen and watercolor to deftly display emotions, tensions, and theme. He doesn’t need words because the images are strikingly poignant and thoughtful.
Matthew Cordell/Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group
Matthew Cordell/Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group
Honor Books
Congratulations to all the winners!