The man behind the award, John Newbery:

It is said that John Newbery went as far as to “invent” the market for children’s books that both instructed and amused them, by so doing he created the genre. On the cover of his first printed children’s book was the inscription “Delectando monemus,” which means – “instruction with delight” and is said to be his life’s work. He pursued publishing and writing children’s books that would be appealing not only to a child but to the parent as well. His first book “A Pretty Little Pocket Book” was sold with a ball for boys and a pin cushion for girls all at only a sixpence, which was very affordable for the time. Newbery worked in publishing for almost 30 years before passing the business on to his son Francis.

Most of what I learned in researching the man behind this award was fascinating. It was so interesting to learn the origins of what we consider children’s literature today. John Newbery was someone who truly loved children and wanted to reach them on their level. The books he sold were appealing in color and texture as well as intellectually. I was disappointed that there wasn’t more to be learned, but I think I may be doing some more research again in the future.

The association behind the award, The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC):

This association has been known by various names and is under the administration of the larger American Library Association (ALA), but in 1977 it was officially named what we call the organization today. In it’s beginnings it was a club of children’s librarians whose primary purpose was to get acquainted and discuss current children’s literature. Today the organization has two main goals (purposes):

1. Core Purpose: Creating a better future for children through libraries.
2. Primary Goal: To lead the way in forging excellent library service for all children.

In addition to these goals they have others that fall under different the general umbrella of these listed above, but the main focus seems to be on assisting children in their futures through the means of reading and library assistance.

The award, The Newbery Medal:

Announced annually, The Newbery Medal (and Honorees), is given to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. Each year a committee of ALSC members makes the selection and have since 1922. They chose based on a variety of criteria including: theme, presentation (clarity, accuracy and organization), plot, characters, setting, style, relatability to children, it’s contribution to literature, and the author must be a US citizen having the book published in English during the year in consideration.

At first I thought it a little strange that the award would be limited to geographical location (the US), but you have to consider whose truly behind the award, The American Library Association. They’re using the name of John Newbery because his contribution to children’s literature was beyond what anyone had ever done before and in chosing the award they are seeking the finest in children’s literature. To promote the continued writing of these wonderful works they wish to celebrate those closest to home. That’s not to say that outside of the US there are no great children’s authors, because there are, they are just honored in other ways (some of which I will highlight later in the year).

To Recap:

The Newbery Award is the oldest award given to children’s literature and is one of the most revered by readers of great literature. As such, I recommend reading up on this fascinating award, because there really is a lot of great information out there.  I’m really looking forward to reviewing some of the titles that have been selected in the past and see how they stand up, in my own opinion of course.

If you’re interested in following along here’s the schedule for the next month:

Ramona and Her Father by Beverly Cleary Newbery Honor Award 1978

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman Newbery Award Winner 2009

The Giver by Lois Lowry Newbery Award Winner 1994 (Also award winner in 1990)

Some of my information sources:

Wikepedia

History.org

Association for Library Service to Children

American Library Association

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