Leonard Marcus, a children�s book historian, wrote A Caldecott Celebration for the 60th anniversary of the prestigious Caldecott Medal. In it, he describes the stories behind six Caldecott winners, one from each decade in the award�s history. The artistic and editorial collaboration that results in the most coveted award for children�s picture books is examined through the work of Robert McCloskey (Make Way for Ducklings), Marcia Brown (Cinderella), Maurice Sendak (Where the Wild Things Are), William Steig (Sylvester and the Magic Pebble), Chris Van Allsburg (Jumanji), and David Wiesner (Tuesday).
Marcus describes the philosophy behind the medal, the criteria for judging books, who selects the winner, and the benefits that winners reap. The evolution of the picture book is also explored, as the author discusses the advances in printing, art techniques, and editorial processes and policies. For each artist studied, there is a photograph and excerpts from the Caldecott Medal acceptance speech. The author also provides a biography, which details the development of the author as an artist and storyteller.
We see how editors impact and influence the development of a successful picture book, and realize that it takes more than just a talented author/illustrator to assure a book�s success. The development of the art itself, as the concept for each book is more fully realized, is examined by the author. Insights into the artists� thought processes, as well as their sketches, notes, preliminary drawings, models, and finished product art samples show the protracted and laborious process in developing the finished product. The author also includes a chronological list of every Caldecott winner as well as a glossary of art and publishing terms.
Most artists don�t set out to become children�s book illustrators. Marcus shows us how each of these artists progressed from different artistic backgrounds and professions to achieve the common distinction of being award-winning children�s book illustrators. Chris Van Allsburg was a sculptor, William Steig did drawings for advertisements, and Maurice Sendak decorated toy store windows. In every case, however, the artist met someone who had faith in his or her ability to create children�s story book art, and helped them get started. Other artists and editors gave these talented artists the opportunity to showcase their talents in creating picture books.
Children will enjoy the funny stories that are behind many of these books. The story of Robert McCloskey living with 16 ducks over a period of two years, and their contribution to the success of his book, will delight youngsters. The image of David Wiesner and his editor sitting around making pig and frog noises, and the fact that Chris Van Allsburg used his wife to pose for his monkey drawings, should bring a chuckle from readers, young and old.
This book should be required reading for every aspiring artist and art student. Children who experience this behind-the-scenes peek will have renewed appreciation and understanding of the process, effort, and skill involved in producing picture books. Added interest in art, as well as books, could be the happy result.
Related Web Sites:
Caldecott Medal home page: http://www.ala.org/alsc/caldecott.html
Leonard Marcus home page: http://www.leonardmarcus.com/