Caldecott Medal 2026: Complete list of winners

The 2026 Caldecott Medal has crowned its winner, and this year’s selection underscores the award’s enduring commitment to recognizing the most distinguished American picture books. Established in 1938, the Caldecott Medal remains the gold standard for illustration in children’s literature, honoring artists whose artistic vision transforms stories into visual experiences that captivate young readers. This year’s winner, Cátia Chien for Fireworks, represents the kind of innovative, culturally resonant work that continues to define the medal’s legacy in the modern publishing landscape.

Chien’s Fireworks joins a distinguished lineage of Caldecott-winning titles, each chosen by the American Library Association’s rigorous selection committee for their outstanding artistic merit and ability to engage children’s imaginations. The 2026 Caldecott Medal announcement reflects broader trends in children’s publishing, where diverse voices and fresh artistic perspectives are increasingly shaping the picture books that define childhood literacy experiences. As readers and educators look to the Caldecott Medal winners list year after year, selections like Fireworks set the standard for what excellence in picture book illustration looks like.

Below, you’ll find complete details about this year’s honorees and what makes their work stand out in the competitive world of children’s book awards.

Picture Books

• Fireworks by Cátia Chien