Are awards for children’s books useful? What can they do in a real sense?

Children’s publishing is a crowded field and for many, awards can help identify not only critically valuable books but help identify new and interesting work.

When it first started some 40 years ago, the Coretta Scott King was intended to recognize the work of African American authors and illustrators. It continues to do so and since 1995, the John Steptoe New Talent Award encourages and recognizes new authors and illustrators.

Many of the CSK award winners are legends in the field, creating books that strongly, clearly and continually resonate with readers.

And now, many of the CSK authors and illustrators are available to explore online at TeachingBooks.Net. It’s possible to hear the creators introduce and read excerpts from their work, link to related resources, and more.

It’s a fine resource for both home and classroom use. And it’s a fine time to discover or rediscover some award winning books worth knowing.

About the Author

Maria Salvadore is Reading Rockets’ consultant for children’s literature and literacy. Maria curates our themed booklists and writes the blog, Page by Page, which explores the best ways to use kids’ books both inside and outside of the classroom. She leads parent workshops for Ready To Learn (RTL) at WETA Public Broadcasting in Washington, D.C. She has also taught children’s literature at the University of Maryland, reviewed books for School Library Journal, and has served on various book award committees, including the Boston Globe/Horn Book Awards, Golden Kite, and the Caldecott Committee.

Publication Date
July 29, 2009
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