If you don’t know where to start building a beautiful library of books for the loved little ones in your life, start with Caldecott award-winning children’s books. When you see a Caldecott medal shining off the cover of a book, you know it’ll be a good read. Moreover, that book will have brilliant illustrations.
What are Caldecott award-winning Children’s books?
Each year, the Caldecott Medal is awarded to an artist of an outstanding children’s picture book. The Caldecott Medal, named for children’s illustrator Randolph Caldecott, was created in 1937 and honors “the most distinguished American Picture Book for Children published in the United States during the preceding year,” according to the American Library Association.
Who won the first Caldecott Award?
Jim Razzi and Fred Marvin’s Snow-White and the Seven Dwarfs won the first Caldecott Award.
Caldecott award is such a great indicator of quality children’s books. As you know, illustrations are such an important part of children’s books, and the power of illustration is strong. They help the story come alive by giving the reader a clear visual of what is happening in the story. Good illustrations can spark the imagination and encourage the reader to think deeper and more creatively.
Many of my favorite children’s books are Caldecott award-winning children’s books, and I want to curate the whole Caldecott winner children’s books with you. And if you’re looking for an award-winning title for your child’s home library, check out this list of classic and new Caldecott award-winning children’s books.
A wise story about a little princess who desired and received the moon. “Grown-ups will find the book to be hilariously funny… The lovely, squiggly color illustrations are just right.” -From The New Yorker.
Noah’s Ark
The bee and the fox, the sheep and the ox–two of each kind trudged aboard Noah’s famous vessel. Peter Spier uses his own translation of a seventeenth-century Dutch poem about this most famous menagerie.
“This satisfying story of friendship and trust is told through paintings that are rich in emotion. Matthew Cordell, the author of Trouble Gum and Another Brother, has written a book set on a wintry night that will spark imaginations and warm hearts.
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“This stunning hardback version of The Polar Express is the ideal present for everybody, regardless of age, who dreams of hearing the merry sound of a reindeer’s silver bell on Christmas Eve. A memento ornament is included with this edition.
On Christmas Eve, a small child who is awake is welcomed aboard a magical train to the North Pole.
The Polar Express travels through gloomy forests, high mountains, and a desolate ice desert as it makes its journey to the enormous metropolis that stands alone at the top of the world, where the youngster will make his Christmas wish.
This enigmatic journey to the North Pole has become a beloved Christmas classic for millions of readers all around the world. In this edition’s thirty-year celebration, a striking new jacket design and an expanded interior layout highlight Chris Van Allsburg’s unmistakable artistic talent.
The Caldecott Medal-winning book The Polar Express has been a beloved holiday tradition for generations of families to read aloud. It has also become a beloved holiday film and been adapted for theatrical productions performed all around the country during the holiday season.”
“Over thirty years ago, Peter and Judy discovered the game—Jumanji—with the instructions that once the game is started, it must be completed, or it will continue indefinitely—and it was then that readers discovered Jumanji, too, with the same awe. Jumanji has received numerous awards since its initial publication, including the Caldecott Medal, and the surreal story was adapted for the big screen for the first time in 1996.
This special edition of Jumanji includes a downloadable audiobook read by renowned actor Robin Williams.”
“Here is a perfect combination of rollicking story and pictures that have strength, life, and humor in every line,” says one of the dogs who finds a bone and can’t decide which of them owns it. “The Horn Book “
“This Caldecott Medal-winning classic retelling of Little Red Riding Hood is one of our generation’s most beloved picture books.
Ed Young illustrates the ancient Chinese version of the popular fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood with his characteristic flair and energy. Young’s vibrant yet delicate pastels and watercolors add drama to the story, which has been expertly translated.
“A gripping retelling of Red Riding Hood. This is an outstanding accomplishment that will be revisited.” —School Library Journal, starred review.”
This magical tale begins on a faraway island, where an imaginary friend is born. He patiently awaits his turn to be chosen by a real child, but when he is repeatedly overlooked, he embarks on an incredible journey to the bustling city, where he finally meets his perfect match and is finally given his special name: Beekle.
Dan Santat, the #1 New York Times bestselling and award-winning author and illustrator of After the Fall and Are We There Yet? blends classic storytelling with breathtaking art in an unforgettable story about friendship, imagination, and the courage to find one’s place in the world.”
“Even the youngest reader will benefit from reading this extremely special prayer created especially for kids.
The Caldecott Award-winning Prayer for a Child is guaranteed to gain new admirers in this new gift book edition and turn into a favorite.
With the help of Little Simon Inspirations books for your child, keep expanding your faith and joy! “
Hello Lighthouse is one of the best children’s books. It’s sure to please young readers with a captivating window into the past as they watch days and seasons pass by. Through pictures, readers can follow the story of a lighthouse keeper and his family, who share each other’s daily lives inside a cozy dollhouse-like interior while out at sea, icebergs drift.
The artwork is truly breathtaking, and due to Sophie Blackall’s skillful storytelling, Hello Lighthouse is becoming quite a popular delight for all ages. Why not invite your child to step through the door of this iconic Lighthouse and join in on the adventure?
