Newbery Medal 1925: Complete list of winners

The Newbery Medal made history in 1925 when it awarded its inaugural honor to Charles Finger’s Tales from Silver Lands, a landmark moment that established what would become one of children’s literature’s most prestigious awards. Finger’s collection of South American folklore captivated judges with its vivid storytelling and cultural richness, transporting young readers to distant lands through tales of adventure and wonder. The selection set an important precedent: the Newbery Medal would celebrate books that not only entertained children but expanded their understanding of the wider world.

The 1925 Newbery Medal announcement came just three years after the American Library Association first dreamed up the award, named after eighteenth-century English bookseller John Newbery, a pioneer in publishing for children. That inaugural win for Tales from Silver Lands signaled the committee’s commitment to recognizing distinguished contributions to American children’s literature—a mission that continues to define the medal nearly a century later. Finger’s success with retold folklore also highlighted an early trend in Newbery selections: a taste for imaginative narratives that honored cultural traditions while captivating young imaginations.

The 1925 Newbery Medal winner remains a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted storytelling. Below, explore the details of this historic first award and what made Finger’s collection stand out to the committee.

Children’s Literature

• Tales from Silver Lands by Charles Finger