Award-Winning Reading for Children of All Ages
Monday, July 14, 2014
Early summer is a celebratory time in the children’s literature world, as many who create, read, and promote books for young readers gather at the American Library Association national conference to honor the year’s award-winning authors and illustrators. The 2014 awards were given at the national conference in Las Vegas at the end of June. The winners accepted their awards with speeches highlighting their journeys as authors and illustrators. Geisel Award Winner Greg Pizzoli described how exciting it is to be the creator of a book that might change “reading from an impossible task to an incredible journey." Caldecott Medal Winner Brian Floca shared his belief in the importance of asking questions that matter to children. Newbery Medal Winner and National Ambassador for Young People's Literature Kate DiCamillo told a moving story of how writing and reading books can lead you to joy. Sibert Medal Winner Susan Roth recalled how careful observation of the world was essential to her telling a true story about the natural world.
Below are some Children’s Library staff favorites from the 2014 awards:
The Year of Billy Miller by Kevin Henkes
Seven-year-old Billy Miller starts second grade with a bump on his head and a lot of worries, but by the end of the year he develops good relationships with his teacher, his little sister, and his parents, and learns many important lessons. This book, a great read-aloud, was awarded a Newbery Honor. The Newbery Medal honors the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.
Nelson Mandela by Kadir Nelson
This beautifully illustrated biography of the late South African president best known for his political activism and fight to end apartheid was awarded a Coretta Scott King Honor. This award is given to outstanding African American authors and illustrators of books for children and young adults that demonstrate an appreciation of African American culture and universal human values.
Journey by Aaron Becker
Using a red marker, a young girl draws a door on her bedroom wall and through it enters another world where she experiences many adventures. This richly drawn wordless book was awarded a Caldecott Honor. The Caldecott Medal honors the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.
You can find these and many other 2014 award-winning titles at the Library –explore our holdings here.
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