Happy Birthday Caldecott

illustration from the ALA

Ever pick up a children's book and wonder what that gold medal on the front means?

It's the Caldecott Medal, named for the 19th-century illustrator Randolph Caldecott, who was born 163 years ago this Sunday. Happy birthday, Mr. Caldecott.

How the Caldecott Medal Came About
The Newbery Medal already honored the author of the best children's book written each year, but some felt that illustrators of children's books were equally deserving of honor. Since Randolph Caldecott was an influential illustrator in the nineteenth century, the medal was named after him and is awarded yearly to the picture book with the best illustrations.

Note the difference: the Newbery Medal is for the best writing, and the Caldecott for best illustrations.

Take a look at that shiny gold seal sometime. You'll see an illustration from one of Randolph Caldecott's picture books, The Diverting Story of John Gilpin, which displays his signature skill in showing movement and action. As ALA describes, "The illustration shows John Gilpin astride a runaway horse, accompanied by squawking geese, braying dogs, and startled onlookers." Here's another illustration from one of his books (though not displaying the same sense of action):



The American Library Association awards a Caldecott Medal book each year, as well as several runners-up, given the Caldecott Honor Medal. Go here to see this year's winners and honorees, as well as all other winners since the award was first given in 1938. You'll recognize such favorites as Click Clack Moo; No, David!; Knuffle Bunny and Knuffle Bunny Too; Ella Sarah Gets Dressed; and More More More Said the Baby.

These are great books to share with young children or grandchildren. What excellent way to teach them about art--present them with the best illustrations that year that have been created just at their level!


some text adapted from ALA article on the Caldecott Medal