The writer and illustrator Jerry Craft won this year’s John Newbery Medal for “New Kid,” the first graphic novel to receive the prize for the most outstanding contribution to children’s literature. Published by HarperCollins, “New Kid” marks a shift from Craft’s previously self-published work and reflects changing attitudes about the literary merits of graphic novels. “The Undefeated,” illustrated by Kadir Nelson and written by Kwame Alexander, won the Randolph Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished American picture book for children. “New Kid” and “The Undefeated” both received Coretta Scott King awards, which recognize African-American authors and illustrators. Alexander had previously won the Newbery Medal for his novel “The Crossover” in 2015.

Source: New York Times January 27, 2020 17:07 UTC