Graphic Novel Makes History Wins Newbery Medal 2020

March 27, 2020

The John Newbery Medal, frequently shortened to the Newbery, is a literary award given by the Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association, to the author of “the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children”.

New Kid, written and illustrated by Jerry Craft, published by HarperCollins Children’s Books.

Jordan Banks can’t help seeing privilege when he transfers to Riverdale Academy Day School for seventh grade. As one of the few African American students in the school, he regularly deals with racism and microaggressions. Craft creates an intimate, relatable world inviting readers in, and holds them there.

“This distinct, timely, and honest story respects children and gives its readers a glimpse into what it means to be other,” said Newbery Medal Committee Chair Krishna Grady.

2020 Honor Books

The Undefeated, written by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Kadir Nelson, and published by Versify, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

The Undefeated “is for us.” Written in sparse poetic verse, the contributions of African Americans are celebrated and explored. The reader is invited on a journey of dreaming, of persevering, and of bravery. The past intersects with the present, leaving readers forging their own paths of discovery. America, this is for you.

Scary Stories for Young Foxes, written by Christian McKay Heidicker, illustrated by Junyi Wu, and published by Henry Holt and Company, an imprint of Macmillan Publishing Group.

Seven foxes, in the dark and twisted Antler Wood, want to hear scary stories. And, they will. Imagine a character with gooey eyes. Imagine trying to slink away from the Golgathursh’s grin. And imagine Beatrix Potter as a villain. Adventure, survival, and humor all celebrate the importance of story …even scary ones.

Other Words for Home, written by Jasmine Warga, published by Balzer + Bray, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.

This book follows Jude and her mother, both Muslim, who flee war-torn Syria for a new life in America. This novel in verse is an inspiring story of resilience. It explores themes of family, prejudice, and what home truly means in a timely and honest manner.

Genesis Begins Again, written by Alicia D. Williams, published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing Division, a Caitlyn Dlouhy Book.

This book tells the story of 13-year-old Genesis, struggling with colorism and self-loathing. Her dark skin is just one of the 96 things she does not like about herself. This powerful novel deals with family struggles and internalized racism. A hopeful ending will leave both Genesis and readers seeing the possibility of self-worth.

Footnote: Newbery Medal and Honors Information provided by the ALSC – Association For Library Service To Children