Caldecott Medal 2004: Complete list of winners

The 2004 Caldecott Medal went to Mordicai Gerstein for his stunning picture book The Man Who Walked Between the Towers, a choice that perfectly captures what the award celebrates year after year—the intersection of extraordinary illustration and compelling storytelling for young readers. Gerstein’s luminous artwork and innovative visual narrative brought the true story of Philippe Petit’s daring 1974 tightrope walk between the Twin Towers to life in a way that captivates both children and adults. The Caldecott Medal, awarded annually by the American Library Association to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book, has long served as the gold standard for excellence in children’s book illustration, and Gerstein’s win demonstrates the award’s commitment to honoring artists who expand what’s possible in the medium.

What makes Gerstein’s victory particularly resonant is the book’s thematic depth beneath its accessible exterior. The Man Who Walked Between the Towers captures both the beauty and audacity of an impossible dream, rendered through artwork that manages to be simultaneously delicate and bold. The 2004 Caldecott Medal winner reminds us that picture books aren’t merely pretty accompaniments to text—they’re powerful artistic statements that can move readers of any age. Gerstein’s achievement stands as a testament to the enduring importance of the Caldecott Medal in recognizing and elevating the finest visual storytelling in American children’s literature.

Picture Books

• The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein