Caldecott Medal 1979: Complete list of winners

The 1979 Caldecott Medal marked a particularly striking year for children’s literature, with Paul Goble’s The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses claiming the top honor. Goble’s luminous illustrations brought a Native American tale to vivid life, celebrating themes of freedom, nature, and belonging that resonated deeply with judges and young readers alike. The book’s distinctive artistic style—featuring bold patterns and a rich color palette inspired by traditional Plains Indian art—set a new standard for what picture books could accomplish visually.

This was a significant moment for the Caldecott Medal, which has long served as the gold standard for excellence in children’s illustration since its establishment in 1938. By the late 1970s, the award had increasingly become a platform for diverse cultural narratives and artistic approaches, moving beyond the more conventional European-influenced illustration styles that had dominated earlier decades. Goble’s win exemplified this important shift, demonstrating that the Caldecott committee valued both authentic storytelling and innovative visual artistry that reflected broader American experiences and traditions.

Picture Books

• The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses by Paul Goble