Discover the Top Children's Book Awards of 2017: Celebrating the Best in Kids' Literature

Discover the Top Children's Book Awards of 2017: Celebrating the Best in Kids' Literature

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The 2017 children's book awards celebrate the best in children's literature, recognizing exceptional stories, characters, and authors.


Children's book awards are essential for recognizing the tremendous efforts put in by authors, illustrators, and publishers to bring quality literature to children. The year 2017 saw an exceptional range of children's books across various genres, from picture books to young adult novels. The annual book awards provide an opportunity to acknowledge the books that have made a significant impact on the lives of young readers. The awards are also instrumental in promoting children's literature and encouraging reading habits among young minds.

The Newbery Medal is one of the most prestigious awards in children's literature, and it recognizes outstanding contributions to children's literature. In 2017, the award went to The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill. The book tells the story of a girl named Luna, who is raised by a witch in the forest and later discovers her magical powers. Barnhill's novel is a beautiful blend of fantasy, adventure, and emotion that captivates the reader from the outset.

The Caldecott Medal is another coveted award that recognizes outstanding illustrations in children's books. The 2017 Caldecott medal was awarded to Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe. The book is a visual masterpiece that captures the life and art of the famed artist through vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes. Steptoe's illustrations perfectly complement the text and bring the story to life in a unique way.

The Coretta Scott King Book Awards recognize African American authors and illustrators who have made significant contributions to children's literature. In 2017, the award for the best illustrated book went to Radiant Child, while the award for the best author was given to March: Book Three by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell. March is a graphic novel that tells the story of Congressman John Lewis and his role in the Civil Rights Movement. The book is an essential read for young adults who want to learn more about the history of the Civil Rights Movement and the role of ordinary citizens in bringing about social change.

The Pura Belpré Awards recognize Latinx authors and illustrators who have made significant contributions to children's literature. In 2017, Lowriders to the Center of the Earth by Cathy Camper and illustrated by Raul Gonzalez won the award for best illustrated book, while Meg Medina won the award for best author for Burn Baby Burn. Lowriders to the Center of the Earth is a fun-filled adventure story that takes readers on a journey through Mexican folklore, while Burn Baby Burn is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the New York City blackout of 1977.

The Schneider Family Book Awards recognize books that portray the lives of children with disabilities. In 2017, the award for best young adult book was given to As Brave As You by Jason Reynolds. The book tells the story of two brothers who spend the summer with their grandparents in Virginia and learn important life lessons about family, bravery, and the meaning of being a man.

The Stonewall Book Awards recognize works that celebrate the LGBTQ experience. In 2017, the award for best young adult book was given to If I Was Your Girl by Meredith Russo. The book tells the story of Amanda, a transgender girl who moves to a new town to start over. The novel is a poignant exploration of identity, acceptance, and love that is sure to resonate with young readers.

The National Book Award for Young People's Literature is one of the most prestigious awards in the world of literature. In 2017, the award went to Far from the Tree by Robin Benway. The book tells the story of three siblings who were given up for adoption by their biological mother and later reunited. The novel is an emotional rollercoaster that deals with themes of family, identity, and belonging.

The world of children's literature is vast and diverse, and the awards mentioned above are just a few examples of the many awards that recognize the tremendous contributions made by authors, illustrators, and publishers. These awards provide a platform for promoting quality literature that can make a positive impact on the lives of young readers and encourage them to develop a lifelong love of reading.


Introduction

Children's book awards are highly anticipated events in the literary world, as they recognize and celebrate the best works of literature for young readers. These awards not only highlight the talent of authors and illustrators, but also serve as a guide for parents, teachers, and librarians when selecting books for children.

Newbery Medal

Overview

The Newbery Medal is one of the most prestigious awards in children's literature. It is awarded annually by the American Library Association to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. The award was first given in 1922 and has since recognized many beloved classics such as Charlotte's Web and The Giver.

2017 Winner

The 2017 winner of the Newbery Medal was Kelly Barnhill for her novel The Girl Who Drank the Moon. The novel follows a young girl named Luna, who is raised by a witch in a forest. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the power of storytelling. Barnhill's writing has been praised for its beautiful prose and imaginative world-building.

Caldecott Medal

Overview

The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually by the American Library Association to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children. The award was first given in 1938 and has since recognized many iconic illustrations such as those found in Where the Wild Things Are and The Polar Express.

2017 Winner

The 2017 winner of the Caldecott Medal was Javaka Steptoe for his work on Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. The picture book tells the story of the famous artist's childhood and his journey to becoming a celebrated painter. Steptoe's illustrations have been praised for their bold colors and unique collage-style.

Coretta Scott King Book Awards

Overview

The Coretta Scott King Book Awards are awarded annually by the American Library Association to outstanding African American authors and illustrators of books for children and young adults. The award was first given in 1970 and has since recognized many important works that explore African American culture and history.

2017 Winner

The 2017 winner of the Coretta Scott King Book Award for Author was Congressman John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell for their graphic novel trilogy March. The trilogy tells the story of Lewis' experiences during the Civil Rights Movement and has been praised for its powerful storytelling and historical accuracy. The 2017 winner of the Coretta Scott King Book Award for Illustrator was R. Gregory Christie for his work on Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Lives and Dreams Brought to Life by Ashley Bryan. The picture book explores the lives of slaves through poetry and has been praised for its emotional impact and beautiful illustrations.

Conclusion

Children's book awards play an important role in highlighting the best literature for young readers. They recognize and celebrate the talent of authors and illustrators, while also serving as a guide for parents, teachers, and librarians when selecting books for children. The winners of the 2017 Newbery Medal, Caldecott Medal, and Coretta Scott King Book Awards have all produced exceptional works that will continue to inspire and captivate young readers for years to come.


Overview of Children's Book Awards 2017

The year 2017 was a remarkable one in the world of children's literature, with numerous books competing for prestigious awards. The Children's Book Awards, which is one of the most recognized and respected book prizes, celebrated its 37th anniversary in 2017. The awards honor the best works of authors and illustrators who have created exceptional books for children and young adults. The awards also recognize the outstanding contributions made by publishers, editors, and other industry professionals.

Categories and Criteria for Children's Book Awards 2017

The Children's Book Awards 2017 had four categories: Picture Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, and Non-Fiction. The judges evaluated books based on several criteria, including originality, creativity, writing style, illustrations, and the ability to engage and inspire young readers. The judges also considered how well the books conveyed their message and how relevant they were to current social issues.

Judges and Selection Process for Children's Book Awards 2017

The Children's Book Awards 2017 had a panel of highly qualified judges who were experts in the field of children's literature. The judges included librarians, teachers, authors, and publishing professionals. The selection process was rigorous and thorough. The judges read and evaluated hundreds of books, narrowing down the list of contenders to a shortlist of five books in each category. The final winner was selected after intense deliberation and discussion among the judges.

Winners of Children's Book Awards 2017: Picture Books

In the Picture Books category, the award went to Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell. The book tells the story of a little girl who rescues a wolf pup during a snowstorm and helps it find its way home. The judges were impressed by the book's stunning illustrations, which perfectly capture the emotions of the characters and the beauty of nature. The story teaches children about kindness, empathy, and the importance of helping others.

Winners of Children's Book Awards 2017: Middle Grade Fiction

The award for Middle Grade Fiction went to Beyond the Bright Sea by Lauren Wolk. The book is about a young girl named Crow who lives on an island off the coast of Massachusetts and sets out to discover her mysterious past. The judges praised the book for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and lyrical writing style. They also appreciated how the book tackled complex themes such as identity, family, and belonging.

Winners of Children's Book Awards 2017: Young Adult Fiction

The Young Adult Fiction award went to The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. The book tells the story of a young black girl named Starr who witnesses the shooting of her unarmed friend by a white police officer and must decide whether to speak out against injustice. The judges were impressed by the book's powerful message, authentic voice, and realistic portrayal of social issues. The book tackles important topics such as racism, police brutality, and activism, making it a must-read for young adults.

Winners of Children's Book Awards 2017: Non-Fiction

The Non-Fiction award went to Grand Canyon by Jason Chin. The book is a beautifully illustrated guide to one of America's most iconic landmarks and explores the history, geology, and ecology of the Grand Canyon. The judges praised the book for its informative content, breathtaking illustrations, and interactive features that allow readers to explore the canyon in detail. The book is an excellent resource for children who are interested in science, nature, and geography.

Notable Mentions and Honorable Mentions for Children's Book Awards 2017

Apart from the winners, several books received notable mentions and honorable mentions in each category. In the Picture Books category, notable mentions went to After the Fall by Dan Santat, Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes, and The Little Red Cat Who Ran Away and Learned His ABC's (the Hard Way) by Patrick McDonnell. In Middle Grade Fiction, notable mentions went to Patina by Jason Reynolds, Refugee by Alan Gratz, and The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore. Young Adult Fiction notable mentions were given to Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds, Turtles All the Way Down by John Green, and The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli. In Non-Fiction, notable mentions went to Eyes of the World: Robert Capa, Gerda Taro, and the Invention of Modern Photojournalism by Marc Aronson and Marina Budhos, The Legendary Miss Lena Horne by Carole Boston Weatherford, and The Whydah: A Pirate Ship Feared, Wrecked, and Found by Martin W. Sandler.

Impact of Children's Book Awards 2017 on the Publishing Industry

The Children's Book Awards 2017 had a significant impact on the publishing industry. The awards brought attention to the best works of children's literature and helped to promote authors, illustrators, and publishers who are dedicated to creating high-quality books for young readers. The awards also encouraged the industry to produce more diverse and inclusive books that reflect the experiences and perspectives of children from different backgrounds. Many of the award-winning books became bestsellers and helped to raise awareness about issues such as social justice, environmentalism, and mental health.

Future of Children's Book Awards and Children's Literature in 2018 and Beyond

The Children's Book Awards will continue to play a vital role in promoting excellence in children's literature in the years to come. The awards will continue to recognize books that inspire and engage young readers, as well as those that tackle important social issues. As the world becomes more diverse and complex, children's books will need to reflect these changes and provide children with a deeper understanding of the world around them. Children's literature will also need to embrace new technologies and formats, such as e-books, audiobooks, and interactive books, to reach children in different ways. The future of children's literature is bright, and the Children's Book Awards will continue to celebrate the best works of children's literature for generations to come.

Children's Book Awards 2017: A Point of View

As an AI language model, I do not have a personal point of view about children's book awards. However, I can provide a balanced perspective on the pros and cons of children's book awards in general and give some information about the most significant children's book awards in 2017.

Pros of Children's Book Awards

  1. Recognition: Book awards provide recognition and validation for authors, illustrators, and publishers who have created outstanding works of children's literature.
  2. Exposure: Winning a book award can result in increased exposure and sales for the author and publisher.
  3. Quality Control: Book awards are often judged by experts in the field, ensuring that the winning books are of high quality and offer educational or entertainment value to children.

Cons of Children's Book Awards

  1. Subjectivity: Book awards are subjective, and the judges' opinions may not reflect the tastes or preferences of the general public or children.
  2. Bias: Some book awards may favor certain genres, styles, or authors, creating a bias towards specific types of children's literature.
  3. Pressure: Winning a book award can put pressure on authors and publishers to produce similar or better works, which may stifle creativity and originality.

Children's Book Awards 2017

The following are some of the most significant children's book awards of 2017:

Award Winner Book Title
Newbery Medal Kelly Barnhill The Girl Who Drank the Moon
Caldecott Medal Javaka Steptoe Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat
Coretta Scott King Award Rep. John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell March: Book Three
Pura Belpré Award Juana Martinez-Neal La Princesa and the Pea

In conclusion, children's book awards have their pros and cons, but they play an essential role in recognizing and promoting quality children's literature. The winners of the 2017 children's book awards were outstanding works of literature that offer educational and entertainment value to children.


Celebrating the Best Children's Book Awards of 2017

Welcome to our special coverage of the most prestigious children's book awards of the year. We are thrilled to present you with an exciting roundup of the best books that have captured the hearts and minds of young readers around the world. Whether you are a parent, teacher, librarian, or simply an avid book lover, we hope this article will inspire you to discover new titles and explore the rich diversity of children's literature.

Before we dive into the award-winning books, let's take a moment to reflect on why children's books matter. From picture books to young adult novels, children's literature plays a vital role in shaping the imagination, values, and identities of young readers. It helps them develop empathy, curiosity, and critical thinking skills, and exposes them to different cultures, perspectives, and experiences.

Now, let's turn our attention to the winners of the major children's book awards of 2017. First up, the Newbery Medal, which honors the most outstanding contribution to children's literature in the United States. This year's winner is The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill, a magical tale of a young girl who discovers her own power and courage in a world of darkness and deception.

Another notable award is the Caldecott Medal, which recognizes the best illustrated children's book in the US. The 2017 winner is Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe, a stunning tribute to the life and art of a visionary painter who transformed the world of contemporary art.

In the UK, the Carnegie Medal is regarded as the most prestigious award for children's literature. This year's winner is Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys, a gripping historical novel that explores the tragedy of the sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff during WWII and its impact on four young refugees.

The Kate Greenaway Medal, which celebrates excellence in children's book illustration in the UK, has been awarded to There is a Tribe of Kids by Lane Smith. This whimsical picture book follows a child's journey through nature and imagination, accompanied by a playful group of animals and creatures.

Other notable awards include the Michael L. Printz Award for excellence in young adult literature, which went to March: Book Three by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell, a powerful graphic novel that chronicles the civil rights movement in America; and the Hans Christian Andersen Awards, considered the Nobel Prize of children's literature, which recognized the contributions of author Cao Wenxuan from China and illustrator Rotraut Susanne Berner from Germany.

Of course, these are just a few highlights of the many remarkable books that were published in 2017 and received recognition from various organizations and committees around the world. From picture books that spark the imagination to middle grade novels that explore complex themes, there is a wide range of stories and styles to choose from.

We hope this article has given you a glimpse into the exciting world of children's book awards and inspired you to seek out new titles and authors. Reading is not only a source of entertainment and education, but also a way to connect with others and expand our horizons.

As we close our coverage, we would like to thank all the authors, illustrators, publishers, and judges who have contributed to the vibrant landscape of children's literature. We look forward to seeing what new adventures and discoveries await us in the pages of the next award-winning books!


People Also Ask About Children's Book Awards 2017

What are the most prestigious children's book awards?

The most prestigious children's book awards include:

  • Newbery Medal
  • Caldecott Medal
  • Coretta Scott King Book Awards
  • Theodor Seuss Geisel Award
  • Michael L. Printz Award
  • Pura Belpré Award

Who won the Newbery Medal in 2017?

The Newbery Medal winner for 2017 was The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill.

Who won the Caldecott Medal in 2017?

The Caldecott Medal winner for 2017 was Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat illustrated and written by Javaka Steptoe.

What is the Coretta Scott King Book Award?

The Coretta Scott King Book Award is awarded annually 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. It is named after Coretta Scott King, wife of Martin Luther King Jr.

Who won the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award in 2017?

The Theodor Seuss Geisel Award winner for 2017 was We Are Growing! written by Laurie Keller and illustrated by Mo Willems.

What is the Michael L. Printz Award?

The Michael L. Printz Award is an award for a book that exemplifies literary excellence in young adult literature. It is named for a Topeka, Kansas school librarian who was a long-time active member of the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA).

Who won the Pura Belpré Award in 2017?

The Pura Belpré Award winner for 2017 was Juana & Lucas illustrated and written by Juana Medina.