Randolph Caldecott Medal
I find it funny that each year the prestigious Randolph Caldecott Medal coincides with the Superbowl.Several years ago it was decided to push back the date of the Superbowl...I am guessing this was for financial reasons, in an effort to generate as much buzz, publicity, and financial fanfare as possible. This year the Superbowl takes place on Sunday February 1st and the Caldecott Medal and all youth media awards will be announced on Monday February 2nd. What event will I anticipate giving me the most joy?
Now as a die hard Buffalo Bills fan, I simply do not get as excited about the Superbowl because my team has not been in the playoffs in 15 years and they have not made a Superbowl appearance since I was in 8th grade. (insert sigh of sadness and an unhappy, aggravated, fan smiley guy face). Yes, the commercials are terrific. Nonetheless, a book has a lasting presence who's benefits far outweigh the good feeling of a commercial. Unlike the Superbowl, I always look forward to seeing who's beautiful illustrations will win this coveted award. This year, sadly, I do not know who I will cheer for on Sunday. Do you have a favorite football team..er..I mean illustrator?
I was luck enough to meet a Caldecott Honoree(actually several times honored) Bryan Collier at the New York State Library Association conference in Saratoga Springs, NY this November. It was liking seeing a celebrity for me. I purchased his book Clemente! for my father in law and his Caldecott Honor book Martin's Big Words for my son. His illustrations are truly remarkable and what's more special is that he has been honored for non-fiction illustrations. Usually the awards are bestowed on fiction titles, but in recent years this trend has shifted. You can find Mr. Collier's on Amazon and read his biography at his web page http://www.bryancollier.com/ . Who would you like to see win a Caldecott?
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