The Newbery Medal is awarded annually by the American Library Association to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.
The 2011 Newbery Medal winner is Moon over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool. Set in 1936, this is the story of 12 year old Abilene who’s father drops her off to spend the summer in the town he grew up in. During her efforts to learn more about her father’s past, she quickly makes friends and uncovers a local mystery. Their summerlong “spy hunt” reveals deep-seated secrets and helps restore residents’ faith in the bright future the town once promised them.
The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually by the American Library Association to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.
The 2011 Caldecott Medal winner is A Sick Day for Amos McGee illustrated by Erin E. Stead and written by Philip C. Stead. This is the story of Amos McGee, a friendly zookeeper, who stays home from work one day when he wakes up with the sniffles. Though he doesn’t make it to the zoo, his zoo friends miss him and make an unexpected visit at Amos’ home.
