Caldecott Medal 2022: Complete list of winners

The American Library Association announced the 2022 Caldecott Medal winner this year, honoring the most distinguished American picture book for children. Jason Chin’s Watercress claimed the top prize, a recognition that speaks to the award’s ongoing commitment to celebrating stories that resonate with young readers while pushing the boundaries of what picture books can do. Chin’s illustrations bring warmth and intimacy to a narrative about a Chinese American family foraging for watercress along a highway, transforming an everyday moment into something luminous and deeply personal. The choice reflects a broader trend in recent years toward picture books that center diverse voices and experiences, moving away from the assumption that children’s literature must always feature fantastical settings or anthropomorphic characters.

The Caldecott Medal, awarded annually since 1938, remains one of the most prestigious honors in children’s literature—a seal of approval that can significantly boost a book’s visibility and sales. For Watercress, the recognition validates Chin’s approach: pairing lyrical, understated writing with illustrations that capture the texture of memory and the specificity of cultural tradition. The 2022 Caldecott winner joins a legacy of picture books that have shaped how generations of children see themselves reflected in stories, making it an essential addition to any family’s bookshelf.

Below, you’ll find complete details about this year’s Caldecott Medal winner and honorees.

Picture Books

• Watercress by Jason Chin