Living Canon

Caldecott Medal 2003: Complete list of winners

The 2003 Caldecott Medal honored one of the most delightful picture books in recent memory: Eric Rohmann’s My Friend Rabbit, a whimsical tale that perfectly captures the mischievous joy of childhood friendship. The Caldecott Medal, awarded annually by the American Library Association to the most distinguished American picture book for children, recognized Rohmann’s ability to blend charming storytelling with inventive artwork that speaks directly to young readers’ imaginations. Rohmann’s win cemented his place among the luminaries of children’s literature, joining a legacy of award winners who understand that picture books are sophisticated artistic endeavors.

What made the 2003 Caldecott Medal selection particularly resonant was Rohmann’s masterful use of visual narrative—his illustrations don’t simply accompany the text, they dance with it, creating moments of genuine humor and heart that both children and adults find irresistible. The story’s exploration of tolerance and friendship, centered around a mischievous rabbit and his patient mouse companion, struck a chord with the award’s selection committee, who recognized in Rohmann’s work the qualities that define the best in children’s publishing: originality, emotional depth, and artistic excellence. This award reinforced what readers and librarians had already discovered: that the best picture books transcend age boundaries and become treasured parts of childhood for generations.

Below, you’ll find detailed information about this year’s celebrated winner and the recognition that helped introduce My Friend Rabbit to countless new readers around the world.

Picture Books