The medal is named after Randolph Caldecott, an influential children's illustrators working in England in the 19th century. His illustrations for children were unique to their time in both their humor, and their ability to create a sense of movement, vitality, and action that complemented the stories they accompanied.
The Caldecott Awards committee gives the title of "Honor Book" to the "runners up," creating an extensive list of award-worthy children's books for authors, librarians, general readers, and all other interested parties to read.
The first Caldecott Medal was awarded for the illustration of children's books 15 years after the development of the Newbery Medal. Each year the American Library Association (ALA) would honor the authors of the most distinguished American children's books published the previous year. Some members of ALA became concerned that the artists creating picture books for children were just as deserving of recognition as authors of children's books. In 1937, Frederic G. Melcher suggested the establishment of a second annual medal. This medal would be given to the artist who had created the most distinguished picture book of the year. In 1938, the first Caldecott medal was awarded to Animals of the Bible, A Picture Book, illustrated by Dorothy P. Lathrop.
"The Randolph Caldecott Medal", the American Library Association.
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A complete list of terms, definitions, and criteria can be found on the American Library Association [ALA] website.
Terms
Illustrations- illustrations are judged by the following:
