Prospect Heights Public Library hosts its first Mock Caldecott Awards!
Prospect Heights Public Library held its first Mock Caldecott Club series to choose the best-illustrated picture book of 2022. Named after the nineteenth century English illustrator Randolph Caldecott, this highly coveted honor is the "Academy Award" in terms of picture book illustration excellence, and bestowed annually by the American Library Association
The Prospect Heights Public Library's mock (or pretend juror) attendees ranged from grades 1- 8, and learned the rules for choosing the winner. Books were not judged solely on the artistry of the pictures, or the story, but how well the pictures told the story. The Mock Caldecott Club has already met for two consecutive Mondays in January to learn about the history of the award, and to vote. Read-aloud picture book spreads were projected on the big screen as well as print copies in hand, as the jurors followed along. Structured with spontaneity in mind, children were free to voice their opinions and observations.
Several books were pored over by the keen observers. In session one, the book that rose to the top was "Blue," by Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond, and Daniel Minter (Illustrator). A non-fiction book about the difficulties of reproducing the color blue from natural sources, it tracked the cultural significance of the quest throughout history.
In session two, the book chosen as a contender was "Knight Owl" by author-illustrator Christopher Denise. A sweet story with touches of humor about a determined owl who wanted to be a medieval knight, succeeds, and the challenges he faced to his bravery.
In the final session three to be held on Monday, Jan. 23, picture books "Blue," and "Knight Owl" will be judged along with a third book chosen that day. In the final round, we will award the Caldecott Medal, two Caldecott Honor Medals, and have a party to celebrate.
Coincidentally, the real Caldecott Medal winners will also be announced on the morning of Jan. 23. How close did we get in selecting the winners? Only time will tell!