Living Canon

Caldecott Medal 1974: Complete list of winners

The 1974 Caldecott Medal went to Margot Zemach for her spirited illustrations in Duffy and the Devil, a Cornish folktale retelling that brought rollicking energy and intricate pen-and-ink work to the American Library Association’s most prestigious award for children’s picture books. Zemach’s playful interpretation of this Rumpelstiltskin-inspired story—where a clever girl outwits a supernatural bargain—showcased the kind of character-driven artistry that has long defined the Caldecott’s winners. The illustrator’s distinctive style, brimming with motion and personality, demonstrated why the medal continues to celebrate not just beautiful books, but ones where pictures and text achieve perfect harmony.

What makes Zemach’s victory particularly notable is how Duffy and the Devil captures the competitive spirit of 1970s children’s literature, a decade when illustrators were increasingly pushing beyond saccharine sweetness toward more textured, emotionally resonant artwork. The Caldecott Medal in this era reflected a shift toward honoring diverse artistic approaches and cultural traditions, and Zemach’s embrace of a folk narrative with real grit and humor aligned perfectly with those evolving tastes. Her win cemented her status as one of the era’s most innovative picture book creators, influencing generations of illustrators who would follow.

Below, discover the complete details of the 1974 Caldecott Medal winners and honorees:

Picture Books