Fireworks, by Matthew Burgess and illustrated by Cátia Chien has won the Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished American picture book for children, and All the Blues in the Sky, written by Renée Watson has been awarded the Newbery Medal for the most outstanding contribution to children’s literature.
Clarion Books; Bloomsbury Children’s Books
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Clarion Books; Bloomsbury Children’s Books
The American Library Association honored the best books for children and young adults with its top awards this year.
Illustrator Cátia Chien and author Matthew Burgess received the Caldecott Medal for their book Fireworks. This prestigious award is given annually to the most distinguished American picture book for children. Fireworks tells the story of two siblings eagerly awaiting a July 4th fireworks show, beautifully illustrated by Chien and enhanced by Burgess’ poetic language.
The Newbery Medal, recognizing the most outstanding contribution to children’s literature, was presented to Renée Watson for All the Blues in the Sky. This middle-grade novel, written in verse, follows 13-year-old Sage as she navigates grief after losing her best friend.
Other recipients of the Coretta Scott King Book Awards this year include Will’s Race for Home by Jewell Parker Rhodes (author award) and The Library in the Woods by Calvin Alexander Ramsey and illustrated by R. Gregory Christie (illustrator award).
Kadir Nelson, a renowned artist based in Los Angeles, was honored with the Coretta Scott King-Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement for his contributions to children’s literature.
Additional Newbery Honor Books this year include The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli, by Karina Yan Glaser and The Teacher of Nomad Land: A World War II Story by Daniel Nayeri.
Caldecott Honors books for this year were Every Monday Mabel by Jashar Awan, Our Lake by Angie Kang, Stalactite & Stalagmite: A Big Tale from a Little Cave by Drew Beckmeyer, and Sundust by Zeke Peña.
Edited by Jennifer Vanasco and Beth Novey.
