The Newbery Medal, established in 1922 by the American Library Association, is one of the most prestigious awards in children’s literature. It is presented annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. Over the years, the Newbery Medal has recognized many books and writers, each contributing their unique perspective to children’s literature. This essay will explore a selection of readers and writers honored with the Newbery Medal.

John Newbery was born in 1713 in England and became a successful bookseller and publisher in London. He popularized children’s books in the 18th century and is known as the “father of children’s literature.” Newbery published many books for children, including A Little Pretty Pocket-Book, a bestseller in its time and considered one of the first children’s books ever printed.

The Newbery Medal was first presented in 1922 by the American Library Association during its annual conference. The award was established to recognize the best in children’s literature and encourage authors to write books of the highest quality. The award was an immediate success and quickly became one of the most prestigious awards in children’s literature.

Over the years, the Newbery Medal has been awarded to many famous authors, including E.B. White, Dr. Seuss, and Lloyd Alexander. The award has also been given to lesser-known authors, such as Kate DiCamillo and Sharon Creech, whose books have significantly impacted children’s literature.

The Newbery Medal has also been instrumental in shaping the landscape of children’s literature. Many authors have written books specifically to win the award, and Newbery has been credited with inspiring authors to write books that are both literary and accessible to children. The award has also encouraged publishers to take a chance on books that might not have been published otherwise, helping bring new and diverse voices to children’s literature.

John Strong Newbery

                  Nomination Process:

Books are nominated for the Newbery Medal by publishers, authors, editors, librarians, and other professionals in children’s literature. Nominations are typically made in the year of the book’s publication, and the eligibility criteria specify that the book should be written by an American citizen or resident and published by an American publisher.

                  Consideration Process:

Once nominated, a book goes through a rigorous consideration process. A committee of 15 experts in children’s literature, appointed by ALSC, reviews all selected books to determine their literary quality and contribution to children’s literature. The committee considers various factors, including writing style, plot development, character development, theme, and overall impact on young readers.

                  Choosing the Medal Winner:

After thorough deliberation, the Newbery committee selects a book that best exemplifies excellence in children’s literature. The chosen book should exhibit distinguished writing and should have made a significant contribution to the field. The committee aims to find a book that displays literary merit and is engaging and accessible to young readers.

It’s important to note that the Newbery Medal is awarded to the author of the book rather than the publisher. The award-winning author receives the Newbery Medal, and their work is celebrated as an exemplary piece of children’s literature.

                   Criteria for Selection:

The Newbery Medal is not awarded based on popularity or sales figures but on the book’s literary excellence. The committee considers several key factors when choosing the winner:

1. Quality of Writing: The writing should be exceptional, displaying creativity, artistry, and skillful use of language.
2. Character Development: Characters should be well-rounded and relatable, showing growth and depth throughout the story.
3. Plot: The story’s structure, pacing, and development should engage readers and contribute to the book’s overall impact.
4. Theme: The book’s articles should be thought-provoking and resonate with readers, addressing essential topics in a way accessible to children.
5. Audience Appropriateness: The committee considers the intended age group of the book and how well it caters to its readers while still challenging and expanding their literary horizons.

                  Impact and Legacy:

The Newbery Medal has profoundly impacted children’s literature by promoting a standard of excellence and encouraging authors to produce meaningful and high-quality books for young readers. Many Newbery-winning books have become beloved classics and have left a lasting impression on generations of readers.

The Newbery Medal’s history is rooted in recognizing excellence in children’s literature, and the nomination and selection processes prioritize literary quality, character development, plot, and theme. It continues to play a significant role in shaping the landscape of children’s literature by honoring outstanding works that leave a lasting impact on readers’ lives.

One of the earliest recipients of the Newbery Medal was “The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle” by Hugh Lofting, which won the award in 1923. This imaginative and adventurous tale introduces readers to the eccentric Doctor Dolittle, who possesses the unique ability to communicate with animals. The book’s charm lies in its whimsical narrative and the heartwarming relationships between the doctor and his animal companions.

Fast forwarding to more recently, the Newbery Medal has continued to celebrate outstanding authors and their contributions. A highly regarded contemporary writer, Kate DiCamillo has received the Newbery Medal twice. Her novel “The Tale of Despereaux,” which won an award in 2004, is a fairy tale that weaves together the stories of a brave mouse, a lovelorn princess, and a rat with culinary aspirations. DiCamillo’s ability to blend poignant themes with imaginative storytelling has resonated with readers of all ages.

Another notable Newbery recipient is Katherine Applegate, whose novel “The One and Only Ivan” earned the award in 2013. This touching story, inspired by actual events, follows the life of Ivan, a captive gorilla living in a shopping mall. Through Ivan’s unique perspective, Applegate addresses friendship, empathy, and the importance of home. The novel’s powerful message has made it a beloved choice for young readers and educators alike.

In 2016, the Newbery Medal was awarded to “Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Peña, with illustrations by Christian Robinson. This picture book stands out for its lyrical prose and vibrant images. The story follows C.J. and his grandmother as they ride the bus across town, encountering various people and places. Through their journey, de la Peña and Robinson skillfully address themes of diversity, community, and the beauty found in everyday life.

Lois Lowry’s “Number the Stars,” awarded the Newbery Medal in 1990, delves into the darker period of history during World War II. The novel tells the story of a young Danish girl’s courageous efforts to save her Jewish friend from the Nazis. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Annemarie, readers witness acts of bravery and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

These examples represent just a fraction of the remarkable books and writers who have received the Newbery Medal. The award’s diverse range of winners showcases the breadth of themes, genres, and styles found within children’s literature. Each Newbery-winning book leaves an indelible mark on readers, offering valuable insights, fostering empathy, and sparking a lifelong love of reading.

The Newbery Medal is an essential part of the history of children’s literature in America. It has encouraged authors to write books of the highest quality and helped shape the landscape of children’s literature by recognizing the best in the field. The Newbery Medal remains one of the most prestigious children’s literature awards and a symbol of excellence.

The Newbery Medal is one of the most prestigious awards in children’s literature, annually presented by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), an American Library Association (A.L.A.) division. Named after 18th-century British bookseller John Newbery, the Medal was first awarded in 1922. The Newbery Medal aims to recognize outstanding contributions to children’s literature and encourage the production of high-quality literature for young readers.

The Prestigious Newbery Honor Award: Celebrating Excellence in Children’s Literature

Children’s literature is a treasure trove of imagination, inspiration, and education. In children’s books, the Newbery Honor Award stands as a symbol of excellence, acknowledging outstanding contributions to the field. For nearly a century, this prestigious award has recognized authors and their remarkable works that have left an indelible mark on young readers. We’ll explore the history, significance, and some notable recipients of the Newbery Honor Award.

                    A Brief History

The Newbery Honor Award, often referred to as the Newbery Honor, is an esteemed accolade for authors of children’s literature. It is named after John Newbery, an 18th-century English publisher widely regarded as the father of modern children’s literature. The Newbery Medal, the highest honor in the field, was established in 1922 by the American Library Association (A.L.A.) to recognize the most distinguished contribution to American children’s literature published in the previous year.

The Newbery Honor was introduced in 1971 as an extension of the Newbery Medal. While the Medal is awarded to a single book, the honor recognizes runners-up, making it possible to celebrate multiple outstanding books in the same year. This expansion has allowed more authors and their works to receive recognition for their exceptional storytelling, character development, and literary merit.

Significance of the Newbery Honor

The Newbery Honor Award holds immense significance in the world of children’s literature for several reasons:

1. Encouraging Quality: By recognizing multiple books each year, the Newbery Honor encourages authors to strive for excellence in their craft. This motivates them to produce high-quality, thought-provoking literature that enriches young minds.
2. Promoting Reading: Award-winning books, including those that receive Newbery Honors, often gain increased visibility. This recognition can lead to more children and families discovering and reading these exceptional works, fostering a lifelong love of reading.
3. Diverse Perspectives: The Newbery Honor Award has been instrumental in promoting diverse voices and perspectives in children’s literature. Recognizing a more comprehensive range of stories and experiences helps children connect with characters from various backgrounds and cultures, promoting empathy and understanding.

                Newbery Honor Recipients

Over the years, the Newbery Honor has celebrated many books that have become beloved classics in children’s literature. Here are a few notable Newbery Honor recipients:

1. “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry” by Mildred D. Taylor: This powerful novel set in the American South during the Great Depression explores themes of racism, injustice, and family. Taylor received a Newbery Honor in 1977 for this work.
2. “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White: This timeless classic tells the heartwarming story of a friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. Published in 1952, it was honored with a Newbery Medal, becoming one of the most beloved children’s books ever.
3. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry: A thought-provoking dystopian novel, “The Giver” received a Newbery Honor in 1994. It raises questions about conformity, free will, and the importance of memories.
4. “Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Peña: This 2016 Newbery Honor book beautifully captures the relationship between a young boy and his grandmother as they ride the bus through their diverse urban neighborhood.

The Newbery Honor Award is a testament to children’s literature’s enduring power and impact. It continues recognizing and celebrating exceptional authors contributing to the rich tapestry of stories shaping young minds. Whether exploring universal themes or introducing readers to new perspectives, Newbery Honor books play a vital role in nurturing a love of reading and fostering empathy and understanding in the next generation. So, the next time you pick up a children’s book with a shiny “Newbery Honor” sticker on its cover, you can be sure that you’re about to embark on a literary journey filled with imagination, inspiration, and excellence.

Diving into Excellence: Newbery Medal vs. Newbery Honor Award

The American Library Association (A.L.A.) celebrates outstanding contributions to children’s literature by awarding the prestigious Newbery Medal and Newbery Honor Award yearly. These accolades are highly respected in the world of children’s literature, recognizing books that have made a significant impact on young readers. While both awards signify literary excellence, they have distinct differences that set them apart. Let’s explore the Newbery Medal and Honor Award, highlighting what makes each unique.

The Newbery Medal: The Gold Standard of Children’s Literature

The Newbery Medal, established in 1922, is one of the most coveted prizes in children’s literature. It is awarded annually to a book the selection committee deems the “most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.” 

Winning the Newbery Medal is an exceptional achievement that places an author’s work in the literary spotlight, often leading to increased visibility and readership.

Critical Characteristics of Newbery Medal Winners:

1. Outstanding Writing: Newbery Medal-winning books are known for their exceptional writing quality. These works typically feature compelling narratives, rich character development, and skillful storytelling that captivates young readers while appealing to adults.
2. Exploration of Complex Themes: Many Newbery Medal winners tackle complex themes and issues. These books often encourage readers to think critically, explore moral dilemmas, and grapple with important life questions, making them valuable tools for education and personal growth.
3. Unique and Innovative Stories: Medal recipients often push the boundaries of traditional children’s literature by introducing innovative storytelling techniques, unique perspectives, or unconventional narrative structures.
4. Lasting Impact: Newbery Medal books are timeless and enduring for generations. They are frequently reprinted, adapted into other media, and cherished by readers of all ages.

The Newbery Honor Award: Celebrating Excellence Beyond the Medal

The Newbery Honor Award, introduced in 1924, is sometimes called the “runner-up” prize. It recognizes books that have contributed substantially to children’s literature while not selected as the Medal winner. Being named a Newbery Honor book is a significant accolade distinguishing work from many children’s books published yearly.

Critical Characteristics of Newbery Honor Books:

1. High Literary Merit: Newbery Honor books exhibit exceptional literary quality and storytelling, albeit falling slightly short of the Medal winner in the eyes of the selection committee.
2. Varied Themes and Styles: These books encompass many themes, genres, and writing styles, reflecting the diversity of children’s literature. This diversity allows for a broader representation of voices and experiences in the genre.
3. Impact on Readers: Newbery Honor books often connect with readers on a deep level, offering memorable characters, thought-provoking narratives, and engaging plots. They have a lasting influence on young readers and may even become cherished childhood favorites.
4. Recognition and Prestige: Authors and illustrators of Newbery Honor books gain recognition and prestige within the children’s literature community. This acknowledgment can lead to increased sales, wider readership, and opportunities for further contributions to the field.

Both the Newbery Medal and the Newbery Honor Award celebrate excellence in children’s literature, recognizing authors and illustrators who create works that leave a lasting impact on young readers. While the Medal represents the highest honor, the Honor Award is no less significant, showcasing a diverse array of exceptional books that enrich the world of children’s literature. Together, these awards promote the importance of quality storytelling and encourage the creation of literature that inspires, educates, and captivates young minds for generations to come.

Please enjoy this series of poems I’ve written in honor of the books I love and their authors. You can find all of my poetry on WritersCafe.org. Or you can click on the following link: https://www.writerscafe.org/TKC1985. Thank you for your support.

Literary Characters 1- 4

A Poem by Tiffany Charles

“A series of poems filled with Y.A. and children’s and Adult books, the authors I love, and books I love reading from time to time.” 

LC-1

I know why the caged bird sings… 

And how the roll of thunder heard my cry… 

Why my brother Sam is dead, and what happened in the Canyon… 

I grew up with the Box Cart children and watched a homecoming…

The Hatchet saved my life, and the wish giver gave me tuck everlasting…. 

Reading is truly fundamental… Leaving a wrinkle in time… 

But the Chronicles of Narnia guided me home, only to find the hobbit waiting for me…

LC-2

I dined with the Lord of the Rings and his fellowship at Northanger Abbey on Treasure Island……… 

I danced with the Count of Monte Cristo, played gin with the Lord of the Flies, and lost all my money. 

After watching The Fall of the House of Usher, I sailed home…… 

On my way to Uncle Tom’s cabin, I chatted with three little women about an Indian in the cupboard they found at Tom Sawyer‘s house…….  

When I saw them, he and Oliver Twist told a tall tale about Moby Dick and how he almost ate all of Mice and Men……… 

This is odd because Dr. Jekyll said Mr. Hyde took care of it…………

LC-3

I know where the Red Ferns grow and how The Call of the Wild can make a mountain crack.

I’m friends with the Maiden from down the way; they call her Sarah Plain and Tall, and she loves to tell the Tale of Despereaux. 

She says that Shiloh is her favorite animal, but don’t tell Socks that! 

When I get cold, I always warm up with the Keeping Quilt and listen to Nancy Drew tell how she solved yet another mystery. 

I love the one where she saw The Face on the Milk Carton and had to write Mr. Henshaw to tell him that the picture on the Milk Carton was none other than Ramona!!!! 

That story gives me Goosebumps!!! 

Last Thursday, I finally crossed the Mississippi Bridge with Mufaro’s beautiful daughters, and Zeely told me to Number the Stars when I went. 

There are many to number, so I decided to Walk Two Moons instead.

LC-4

I was BRAVE ENOUGH to cross Rumpelstiltskin while fighting the Hunger Games on the way home. I WAS STARVING!!

My cousin asked me if The Color Purple was my favorite color, and it is. Then she asked if I had heard that The Wizard of Oz created Frankenstein and Dracula???!!!!!

Of course, I knew he and his nephew went to Eldorado and brought back Leonora, who helped create the creatures…… 

The System of Dr. Tarr and Professor Fether had a different outcome with the Tell-Tale Heart of The Raven; it scared the bejeebus out of EMMA!!!

As we passed Salem’s Lot, we heard a ghostly laugh coming from the Pet Cemetery, and boy, did we run the whole Green Mile home! 

When we got there, Carrie was with THE OUTSIDERS on the lawn, and the house was on fire, and folks say she was The Fire Starter. 

We had a wonderful stay at Wuthering Heights until the police were called for The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. Pvt Dect. Hercule Poirot was obsessed with how The Mirror Cracked from Side to Side. 

He says the same person committed Murder on the Orient Express and The A.B.C. murders, too!! I asked him Why Didn’t They Ask Evens? He also knows what happened and was there when the Three Act Tragedy happened.

We then went to The Pale Horse with the famous Garden Of Eden and said Farwell To Arms as we made our way Across the River and Into The Trees.

We ended up in Another Country, and I immediately felt like A Stranger In a Village. Nobody Knows My Name, and when I wanted to know The Price of a Ticket, Rosa helped me out a ton! 

Nothing is more fulfilling than reading a good book and being The Page Master of your imagination. Nothing is more wonderful than letting your mind run wild and free. There, you will find everything exactly where it needs to be. 

Tiffany K Charles