Who is that award named after?

Randolph Caldecott

Many people are familiar with the American Library Association annual Caldecott Award, given for the the best children's book illustrations. However, fewer people are familiar with the man whose name the award bears. Randolph Caldecott was one of the most popular illustrators of children's books during the last half of the nineteenth century. A contemporary to Walter Crane and Beatrix Potter.

In 1937 The American Library Association chose Caldecott's name for their honorable prize. His artwork from The Diverting History of John Gilpin, featuring Gilpin on a runaway horse, followed by geese, dogs and villagers, is on the medal itself.


Our library has just acquired the reproduction copy of Mr. Caldecott's picture books. Come in and check out the beautiful old fashioned stories to share with your children. With their humorous wordplay and beautiful illustrations they capture the imagination of children and adults alike. If you like the work of Beatrix Potter you will find Caldecott's work right up your alley.

To learn more about Randolph Caldecott visit the website of the American Randolph Caldecott Society http://www.rcsamerica.com/rc.html

Michele