The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) presents several awards to new books, including the Newbery Medal that honors the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children and the Caldecott Metal which honors the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children. Many other medals are awarded including The Theodor Seuss Geisel Medal that “honors the author(s) and illustrator(s) of the most distinguished contribution to the body of American children’s literature known as beginning reader books published in the United States during the preceding year.” This year’s winner was Are You Ready to Play Outside? by Mo Willems.
The ALSC recently announced its newest award winners and they are listed on their website.
I am in the classroom a lot since I service some of my kids within the class. I see that teachers are using wonderful childrens’ literature to teach writing skills, critical thinking, vocabulary and themes. This month is Black History Month, so teachers are searching for great read-alouds to teach about individuals, their culture and experiences. If you are a parent of educator–teacher or therapist–use this list as another resource for good books to read to your children.