The American Library Association announced its top honors for children's and young adult books on Monday.
Caldecott Medal
Illustrator Cátia Chien and author Matthew Burgess received the Caldecott Medal for "Fireworks."
This award recognizes the most distinguished American picture book for children.
"Fireworks" portrays two young siblings anticipating a July 4th fireworks display, featuring vibrant illustrations by Chien and poetic language by Burgess.
Newbery Medal
Renée Watson was awarded the Newbery Medal for "All the Blues in the Sky."
This medal is presented for the most outstanding contribution to children's literature.
Watson's middle-grade novel, written in verse, follows 13-year-old Sage's struggle with grief after the death of her best friend. Watson previously authored "Piecing Me Together," which won the 2018 Coretta Scott King Award and was a Newbery Medal honor book.
Coretta Scott King Book Awards
- Author Award: Jewell Parker Rhodes for "Will's Race for Home"
- Illustrator Award: Calvin Alexander Ramsey (author) and R. Gregory Christie (illustrator) for "The Library in the Woods"
- John Steptoe Award for New Talent: Arriel Vinson for "Under the Neon Lights"
- Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement: Los Angeles-based artist Kadir Nelson, whose work has appeared in over 30 children's books.
Newbery Honor Books
- "The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli" by Karina Yan Glaser
- "A Sea of Lemon Trees: The Corrido of Roberto Alvarez" by María Dolores Águila
- "The Teacher of Nomad Land: A World War II Story" by Daniel Nayeri
Caldecott Honor Books
- "Every Monday Mabel" by Jashar Awan
- "Our Lake" by Angie Kang
- "Stalactite & Stalagmite: A Big Tale from a Little Cave" by Drew Beckmeyer
- "Sundust" by Zeke Peña