Children's Literature Legacy Award facts for kids

The Children's Literature Legacy Award is a special prize. It's given to authors and illustrators of children's books. These are people who have written many great books over the years. Their books must have made a big difference in children's literature. The award is given by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC). This group is part of the American Library Association (ALA).

This award used to be called the Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal. It was named after Laura Ingalls Wilder, a famous American author. She wrote the "Little House" books. The award started in 1954. At first, it was given out every five years. Later, it was given every three years, then every two years. Now, it is given out every year. The most recent winner was James Ransome in 2023.

What Makes a Winner?

To win the Children's Literature Legacy Award, authors or illustrators must meet certain requirements. The award looks for people who have made a lasting impact.

Who Can Be Nominated?

• The award can go to one author or illustrator. It can also go to a team of co-authors or co-illustrators.
• Someone can even be nominated after they have passed away.
• It doesn't matter where the person lives or what country they are from.

About Their Books

• The books must have been published in the United States. But they don't have to be first published there.
• Some of the nominee's books must have been available to children for at least ten years.
• The books should be important in American children's literature.
• Kids must have read the books, and they should still be popular today.
• The award committee only looks at books written for children up to age fourteen.

Why the Name Changed

In 2018, the award's name was officially changed. It used to be the Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal. The group that gives the award, ALSC, decided to review its name. This was because some people had concerns about how Native and African Americans were shown in Laura Ingalls Wilder's books.

The ALSC board found that some parts of Wilder's work showed old-fashioned ideas. These ideas did not fit with ALSC's main values. These values include being welcoming to everyone, being honest, and showing respect. So, the award's name was changed to the Children's Literature Legacy Award. This new name better reflects the award's goal. It celebrates authors and illustrators who make important and lasting contributions to children's literature.

Award Winners

See also

• List of ALA awards
• Caldecott Medal
• Newbery Medal
• Margaret Edwards Award