Describe difference between Caldecott and Newbery Awards. Is one a better award than another?

According to Fact Monster, a Pearson Education group, “The Newbery Medal and Caldecott Medal are both awarded by the Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association. The Newbery Medal, named after English bookseller John Newbery, is awarded each year ‘to the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children published in English in the United States during the preceding year.’ The Caldecott Medal, named after English illustrator Randolph Caldecott, is awarded each year ‘to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children published in English in the United States during the preceding year.’"

So, the difference between a Caldecott and Newbery is basic—the Caldecott award is given to books for illustrations and the Newbery award is given for good literature. Caldecott awards are given to picture books. Newbery awards are given to any book considered to be “good.”

As to what is better than the other, it would depend on what one is looking for. If a reader is searching for books that are great reads, then he or she should choose Newbery books; if a reader is looking for a notable picture book, then the reader should look for Caldecott books.

Resource:
Information Please® Database. (2007). What's the difference between the Newbery and Caldecott medals? Retrieved July 14, 2009, from http://www.factmonster.com/askeds/newbery-vs-caldecott.html.