Newbery Medal 1963: Complete list of winners

The 1963 Newbery Medal marked a turning point for children’s literature, honoring Madeleine L’Engle’s groundbreaking A Wrinkle in Time. This was a bold choice by the American Library Association’s selection committee, rewarding a work that defied easy categorization and pushed the boundaries of what children’s books could explore. L’Engle’s imaginative blend of science fiction, philosophy, and deeply human storytelling resonated with judges who recognized something special in her tale of Meg Murry’s extraordinary journey across dimensions to rescue her father. The novel’s complex themes—touching on good versus evil, the power of love, and the importance of individuality—set it apart from more conventional children’s literature of the era.

What makes L’Engle’s win particularly significant is that A Wrinkle in Time had been rejected by numerous publishers before finally finding a home, making its Newbery Medal recognition a vindication of her vision. The book went on to become a cornerstone of children’s literature, beloved by generations of readers who found in it both intellectual stimulation and emotional depth. By choosing this novel, the Newbery Medal committee signaled that children’s literature could tackle big ideas and experimental storytelling without sacrificing heart or accessibility. The 1963 award remains a testament to the enduring power of imaginative, uncompromising writing for young readers.

Here are the full details of the 1963 Newbery Medal winner:

Children’s Literature

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle