Newbery Medal 1996: Complete list of winners

The 1996 Newbery Medal crowned Karen Cushman’s The Midwife’s Apprentice as the year’s most distinguished contribution to American children’s literature. This historical novel, set in medieval England, tells the story of a nameless girl who finds purpose and identity while apprenticing with a midwife in her village. Cushman’s richly detailed prose and unflinching portrayal of a young woman’s journey toward agency and self-determination resonated with the Newbery selection committee, marking a significant moment in children’s literature that celebrates the voices and experiences of overlooked historical figures.

The 1996 Newbery Medal selection reflected the award’s enduring commitment to recognizing excellence in literature for young readers, even as the winning book tackled themes that demanded maturity and emotional sophistication from its audience. The Midwife’s Apprentice stands as a testament to how historical fiction can illuminate the lives of ordinary people, particularly girls and women whose stories often go untold. Cushman’s win demonstrated that the most impactful children’s books need not shy away from complex emotions, difficult circumstances, or the messy realities of growing up.

The following list details the 1996 Newbery Medal winner and honors:

Children’s Literature

• The Midwife’s Apprentice by Karen Cushman