Tips and ideas for how you can use independent-reading time to help your students build literate lives.
Teach With Award-Winning Children's Books
PreK–K, 1–2, 3–5, 6–8, 9–12
Each year the American Library Association honors books, videos, and other outstanding materials for children and teens. Recognized worldwide for the high quality they represent, the ALA Youth Media Awards, including the prestigious Newbery, Caldecott, Printz, and Coretta Scott King Book Awards, guide parents, educators, librarians, and others in selecting the best materials for youth. Selected by committees composed of librarians and other literature and media experts, the awards encourage original and creative work in the field of children’s and young adult literature and media.
Use these lists to supplement a lesson, to augment your class independent reading program, and to encourage reading at home. Many titles have companion teaching plans and may be available for purchase in The Teacher Store.
Caldecott Awards Book List: Best Illustrations of the Year (1938–2016)
Named in honor of 19th century English illustrator Randolph Caldecott, this annual award is given to the illustrator chosen by the American Library Association (ALA) as "the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children."
Named after an 18th century British bookseller, this annual award goes to the author of what the American Library Association deems "the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children."
The Coretta Scott King Award is presented annually by the Coretta Scott King Task Force of the ALA's Social Responsibilities Round Table. Recipients are authors and illustrators of African descent whose distinguished books promote an understanding and appreciation of the "American Dream."