What is the history and origin of the Newbery Medal?
John Newbery (1717-1767) was the first publisher dedicated to the publication and encouragement of literature written expressly for children. He was such a profound presence and architect of the burgeoning market that the Newbery Medal was named in his honor.
The idea for the Medal was introduced to the American Library Association by Frederic G. Melcher and received enthusiastic support. Melcher strongly believed in the tradition and importance of children's literature.
The first Medal was presented in 1922 to author Hendrik Willem van Loon for his work The Story of Mankind.
Although originally the winner of the Medal was decided by popular vote, the procedure has changed multiple times since then, and now the winner is chosen by a special committee.
Who designed the Newbery Medal, and what does its inscription say?
The Newbery Medal was designed by René Paul Chambellan in 1921, and the inscription on the Medal still says, "Children's Librarians Section."
Who can be nominated for the Newbery Medal?
Only books published by American publishing houses, written by authors who claim residence in the United States, are eligible for nomination.
Which authors have won the Newbery Medal more than once?
Author Joseph Krumgold won his first Medal in 1954 for ...And Now Miguel, and he won his second Medal in 1959 for Onion John. Lois Lowry has also won two Newbery Medals for Number the Stars (1989) and The Giver (1993).
Why is there controversy over some Newbery Medal winners?
There have been many instances of controversy over the winners selected for the Newbery Medal Award. Beyond typical arguments of the subjective matter over who was the most deserving any given year, many literary scholars have remarked that the winning book of the Medal is often too complex and mature for most children to understand or appreciate. Some have even argued that to distinguish a book with the Newbery Medal serves only to alienate potential young readers. Regardless of the controversy, the Newbery Medal has remained the gold standard for children's literature, and winners are often featured on school reading lists for years to come.
