During library class we mostly talk about the Caldecott and Newbery Awards. As we discuss the various criteria that make these books "distinguished" we often look back at previous years' winners. It is always a delight when I hear students' positive reactions to seeing some of winners over past years. Their appreciation of these "classics" is proof to the timelessness of of many of these award winning titles.
This year's Caldecott Award was given to "Wolf in the Snow,” illustrated and written by Matthew Cordell. Peter Blenski reviewed this book a year ago in January for School Library Journal stating that it is "A heartwarming adventure about helping others, best shared one-on-one to pore over the engaging images." Upon announcing the award Caldecott Medal Committee Chair Tish Wilson said that “Committee members were astonished that a deceptively simple book could be such a dramatic story of survival.”
The John Newbery award for 2018 was given to Hello, Universe, written by Erin Entrada Kelly. Writing for School Library Journal, Michele Shaw wrote that "Readers across the board will flock to this book that has something for nearly everyone--humor, bullying, self-acceptance, cross-generational relationships, and a smartly fateful ending."
For more award winners check out the American Libraries Association's Press Release.
