A Caldecott Celebration

This engaging volume offers young readers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how some of their favorite picture books came to life, profiling seven legendary Caldecott Medal-winning illustrators across seven decades. Children will discover the creative processes of artistic masters like Robert McCloskey, who sketched live ducks in his apartment for Make Way for Ducklings, and Maurice Sendak, whose wild things emerged from childhood memories. The book beautifully demonstrates that award-winning art isn't created by magic, but through observation, revision, and passionate dedication to storytelling through images.

What sets this children's literature guide apart is its focus on the human stories behind the artwork, making the creative process accessible and inspiring for elementary school readers. Budding artists will particularly appreciate learning how these illustrators transformed everyday experiences into extraordinary picture books, while all children will enjoy connecting beloved stories to the real people who made them. This celebration of visual storytelling not only honors incredible book illustrations but also plants the seed that every child's imagination holds similar potential for creation.