The John Newbery Medal and Honor Books: A Journey Through Time

As a lover of children's literature, I often find myself drawn to the esteemed John Newbery Medal winners and honor books. This prestigious award, named after 18th-century English bookseller John Newbery, is presented annually by the American Library Association (ALA) to recognize outstanding contributions to American children's literature.

One of my favorite ways to discover new Middle-Grade reads is to peruse the list of Newbery Award winners and honor books. I've compiled a comprehensive list below, with the books I've read marked with an X. This collection includes some of the most iconic stories in children's literature, each one deserving of recognition for its ability to captivate young readers.

Honor: My Side of the Mountain (Jean Craighead George) Xġ961

Island of the Blue Dolphins – Scott O’Dell Xġ962

The Bronze Bow – Elizabeth George Speareġ963

A Wrinkle in Time – Madeleine L’Engle Xġ965

Shadow of a Bull – Maia Wojciechowskaġ966

I, Juan de Pareja – Elizabeth Borton de Trevinoġ968

From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Bowditch – Jean Lee Lathamġ957

Miracles on Maple Hill – Virginia Sorensenġ959

The Witch of Blackbird Pond – Elizabeth George Speare X

Honor: On the Banks of Plum Creek (Laura Ingalls Wilder) Xġ943

Adam of the Road – Elizabeth Janet Grayġ947

Miss Hickory – Carolyn Sherwin Baileyġ948

The Twenty-One Balloons – William Pene Du Boisġ950

The Door in the Wall – Marguerite De Angeliġ951

Amos Fortune: Free Man – Elizabeth Yatesġ953

Secret of the Andes – Ann Nolan Clarkġ955

The Wheel on the School – Meindert De Jongġ956

Carry On, Mr. Kelly

Honor books that I've read include 'Hitty: Her First Hundred Years' by Rachel Field (ġ930), 'The Cat Who Went to Heaven' by Elizabeth Coatsworth (ġ931), and 'Waterless Mountain' by Laura Adams Armer (ġ932).

The John Newbery Medal is awarded annually to a single book that stands out as the best contribution to American children's literature. This recognition not only honors the author but also inspires future generations of readers and writers.

In my experience, reading Middle-Grade books can be a great way to break out of a reading slump or simply enjoy a quick, engaging story. The hope-filled endings often leave me feeling uplifted and grateful for the power of children's literature.

As I continue to explore this list, I'm reminded of the significance of the John Newbery Medal in promoting excellence in children's writing. By recognizing outstanding contributions to American children's literature, this award encourages authors to push boundaries and create stories that captivate young readers.

For those who share my passion for Middle-Grade reads, I highly recommend exploring the world of Newbery Award winners and honor books. This list is a treasure trove of timeless tales waiting to be discovered and cherished.

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