These picture books were recently chosen for the 2023 Caldecott Medal and Honor awards, which are given by the American Library Association annually to the most distinguished American picture book for children and other books worthy of attention.
They offer a wide range of themes, styles, and settings for children to explore. Whether your child is interested in playful adventures, nature, social justice, or imaginative worlds, these books offer something for everyone.
Annisha Jeffries, Youth Services Manager at Cleveland Public Library provided this month’s recommended reads.
Hot Dog 
by Doug Salati
The book won the top award and is a delightful picture book that follows the adventures of a cute and lovable pup who becomes overheated and overwhelmed on a hot summer day. Looking for a way to cool off, the pup embarks on a journey through a fantastic and imaginative world, encountering various obstacles and challenges. It offers a fun and imaginative story that will spark their imagination and sense of adventure.
Choosing Brave: How Mamie Till-Mobley and Emmett Till Sparked the Civil Rights Movement
by Angela Joy and illustrated by Janelle Washington
The Caldecott-honor-winning picture book biography tells the powerful and true story of Mamie Till-Mobley’s journey. She fights for justice and seeks to hold accountable those responsible for her son’s brutal murder. The illustrations are striking and powerful, emphasizing the book’s themes of courage, resilience, and the importance of standing up against racism and injustice.
Knight Owl
by Christopher Denise
This Caldecott-honor-winning picture book is a delightful and whimsical book about a small owl who dreams of becoming a real knight. Despite his size, Owl believes that his sharp nocturnal instincts can help protect the castle, especially since many knights have recently gone missing. The book is full of wordplay and optimism, emphasizing the value of intelligence and friendship over brawn.
Berry Song
by Michaela Goade
The book follows a young girl and her mother on a berry-picking trip to the Alaskan wilderness. The illustrations are stunningly detailed, capturing the lush forests, sparkling rivers, and colorful berries bursting forth from the page. The book’s gentle and poetic prose is accompanied by a delightful berry-picking song that will capture young readers’ attention and imagination.