The Caldecott Medal is one of the most prestigious awards in children's literature, recognizing the most distinguished American picture book for children each year. The selection process for this award is meticulous and involves a dedicated committee from the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). This article explores the detailed process by which the Caldecott Medal winners are chosen,
highlighting the criteria and procedures that ensure the award's integrity and prestige.
The Role of the Selection Committee
The Caldecott Medal selection committee is composed of fifteen members from the ALSC. Seven of these members are elected by the entire ALSC membership, while the remaining eight, including the chairperson, are appointed by the ALSC President. The committee members are chosen based on their experience and expertise in children's literature, ensuring a diverse representation of libraries and geographical areas.
Publishers play a crucial role in the selection process by sending copies of eligible books to the committee. In 2009, for instance, each committee member received over 700 books for consideration. However, a book does not need to be submitted by a publisher to be considered, as committee members can nominate books they believe are worthy of the award.
Criteria for Judging the Books
The Caldecott Medal is awarded based on several criteria that focus on the quality of illustrations in a picture book. The committee evaluates books on artistic technique, interpretation of the story and theme, and the fit between illustrations and the book's narrative. The precision of depiction of elements such as characters and mood, as well as how well the illustrations serve the intended audience, are also considered.
To be eligible, the book must be published in English in the United States and be illustrated by an American artist. Picture books for any audience up to the age of 14 may be considered. The committee's goal is to recognize distinguished illustrations and excellence in pictorial presentation for children.
The Voting and Announcement Process
The selection process culminates at the ALSC's annual midwinter meeting, where the committee discusses the nominated books and holds a vote to determine the winner. Committee members rank their top choices, with first-place votes receiving the most points. The winner must receive at least eight first-place votes and be at least eight points ahead of the second-place finisher.
After selecting a winner, the committee may also choose to award Caldecott Honor books, recognizing other outstanding works. The results are kept confidential until the official announcement, with the winning illustrators being notified on the morning of the announcement.
In summary, the Caldecott Medal selection process is a rigorous and thoughtful procedure that ensures the award continues to honor the most distinguished picture books for children. Through careful evaluation and consideration, the committee upholds the award's reputation for excellence in children's literature.
