Caldecott Medal 2013: Complete list of winners

The 2013 Caldecott Medal announced its winners to a delighted children’s literature community, cementing another year of exceptional picture book artistry. The American Library Association’s prestigious award—given annually to the most distinguished American picture book for children—honored This is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen as the year’s standout achievement. Klassen’s clever tale of a small fish with a big problem showcased exactly what the Caldecott judges look for: sophisticated visual narrative that speaks to both children and adults, combined with illustrations that are simply unforgettable.

What makes Klassen’s win particularly resonant is how it reflects a broader trend in contemporary children’s literature: the rise of picture books that embrace humor, ambiguity, and artistic subtlety rather than relying on sentimentality or obvious moral lessons. This is Not My Hat doesn’t talk down to its young readers; instead, it invites them into a world of visual comedy and narrative tension that rewards close looking and rereading. The Caldecott Medal has always celebrated excellence in illustration, but winners like Klassen demonstrate how modern creators are pushing the form forward, blending minimalist design with maximum storytelling impact.

Below, you’ll find the complete list of 2013 Caldecott Medal winners and honorees, each representing the year’s finest contributions to picture book excellence.

Picture Books

• This is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen