Newbery Medal 1926: Complete list of winners

The 1926 Newbery Medal marked a pivotal moment in American children’s literature, when the prestigious award—then just two years old—selected Shen of the Sea by Arthur Bowie Chrisman as its winner. This collection of Chinese folklore and fairy tales arrived at a time when Western children’s literature rarely ventured beyond European traditions, making Chrisman’s work a remarkable cultural bridge. The stories, framed around a young Chinese boy named Shen, brought authentic tales of ancient China to American readers in a way that felt both genuinely rooted in the source material and accessibly written for children.

What makes the 1926 Newbery Medal selection particularly interesting is how it reflects the award’s early commitment to expanding horizons in children’s reading. Rather than defaulting to familiar adventure stories or domestic tales, the judges recognized the value of introducing young readers to rich traditions from across the globe. Chrisman’s poetic prose and vivid reimagining of classical Chinese narratives proved that the Newbery Medal—America’s most prestigious award for children’s literature—was willing to champion bold, culturally ambitious work from its earliest years.

Below you’ll find detailed information about this landmark award year and the distinguished book that earned its recognition.

Children’s Literature

• Shen of the Sea by Arthur Bowie Chrisman