Booklist Coming October 14th!
Award Overview
The Newbery Medal shall be awarded annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children published by an American publisher in the United States in English during the preceding year. There are no limitations as to the character of the book considered except that it be original work. Honor books may be named. These shall be books that are also truly distinguished. Newbery Award Basic Criteria (from https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/newbery)
Distinguished is defined as:
- Marked by eminence and distinction; noted for significant achievement.
- Marked by excellence in quality.
- Marked by conspicuous excellence or eminence.
- Individually distinct.
In identifying “distinguished contribution to American literature,” defined as text, in a book for children, committee members need to consider the following:
- Interpretation of the theme or concept
- Presentation of information including accuracy, clarity, and organization
- Development of a plot
- Delineation of characters
- Delineation of a setting
- Appropriateness of style
The committee should keep in mind that the award is for literary quality and quality presentation for children. The award is not for didactic content or popularity.
Voting Rules for Newbery
https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/newbery
Each individual picks three books – their first choice gets four points, second choice gets three, and third choice gets two. There can be one winner and one to five honor books.
