2016 Caldecott Medal Winners and Honor Books

Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World's Most Famous Bear

By: Lindsay Mattick
Illustrated by: Sophie Blackall

Medal Winner

Reviewed by: Sara Masarik
Also read and recommended by: Deanna Knoll, Sandy Hall, Sarah Kim, Sherry Early

Recently, I reviewed a delightful picture book about the true story behind Winnie-the-Pooh by Sally Walker. I love that book and think that every fan of Winnie-the-Pooh would appreciate it. Shortly after discovering that book, I learned of this book by Lindsay Mattick (the great-great-granddaughter of Harry Colebourn) and illustrated by Sophie Blackall. Like Winnie, Finding Winnie is absolutely charming. And, for older readers, there is a rich chapter book also by Mattick and Blackall. 

Last Stop on Market Street

By: Matt de la Peña

Honor

Reviewed by: Sandy Hall
Also read and recommended by: Christine Kallner, Sarah Kim, Sherry Early

I love the camaraderie of this little boy and his grandmother. He asks so many questions! I know how that is, living with three little grandsons. This story is simply told and appropriate for little ones. Grandmother finds the good in everyone, and the beauty of her surroundings. She says, “Sometimes when you’re surrounded by dirt, C.J., you’re a better witness for what’s beautiful.” We need that mindset so much today. Some have criticized this book for the improper grammar spoken by grandmother and grandson; I don’t see that as a problem. It just reflects the dialect of the characters.

Christian Robinson is an illustrator and animator who was raised by his grandmother, thus his identification with this story. Much of his work is influenced by his African American heritage. He has illustrated the works of many renowned authors such as Cynthia Rylant and Julie Fogliano. He even illustrated the reissue of Margaret Wise Brown’s book The Dead Bird. The art for this book, Last Stop on Market Street, is created with acrylic paint, collage, and a bit of digital manipulation.

Trombone Shorty

By: Troy Andrews
Illustrated by: Bryan Collier

Honor

Reviewed by: Sandy Hall

Collier’s illustrations for this book are done in his signature style with pen and ink, watercolor and collage. Trombone Shorty’s love of the music of New Orleans comes through clearly in the story of his life presented here. This book is an inspiration to young musicians to pursue their dreams.

Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer, Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement

By: Carole Boston Weatherford
Illustrated by: Ekua Holmes

Honor

Reviewed by: Sandy Hall
Also read and recommended by: Christine Kallner, Sarah Kim

This is definitely a book for older children. The story Is told with poems. The hardships of Hamer’s life are told including severe beatings, bullets shot into her home, and unjust treatment through her life. I was glad to read this book and learn about this brave lady. Her legacy lives on.

Waiting

By: Kevin Henkes

Honor

Reviewed by: Sandy Hall

The illustrations are lovely and quiet, done in brown ink, watercolor paint, and colored pencils. Lots of creamy white space and soft colors tell the simple, gentle story. Do you like to wait? Most of us don’t, and young children especially will identify with this story. It’s lovely!