Caldecott Medal 1977: Complete list of winners

The 1977 Caldecott Medal marked a significant moment in children’s literature, with Leo and Diane Dillon’s stunning Ashanti to Zulu: African Traditions taking home the year’s most prestigious honor for illustration. The husband-and-wife artistic team created something truly remarkable—a visual journey through the diverse cultures and traditions of the African continent, presented through an ingenious alphabetical format that transforms what could have been a simple reference into a captivating exploration. The Dillons’ intricate, layered illustrations brought African art, textiles, and customs to vibrant life, setting a new standard for how picture books could celebrate cultural diversity and authenticity.

This win was particularly meaningful within the context of children’s publishing in the 1970s, a time when books centering African and Black experiences were still relatively rare in mainstream award circles. Ashanti to Zulu didn’t simply depict African traditions as exotic curiosities; instead, it presented them with genuine respect and artistic sophistication, treating its subject matter with the same care and depth that prestigious picture books typically reserved for European-centered narratives. The Caldecott Medal’s recognition of this work signaled an important shift in what the children’s literature establishment valued and elevated.

Below, you’ll find the complete details of the 1977 Caldecott Medal winners and honorees.

Picture Books

• Ashanti to Zulu: African Traditions by Leo and Diane Dillon