Who Has Won the Newbery Award Twice in a Row?

The Newbery Medal is a prestigious award given annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.

Since its inception in 1922, only a few authors have achieved the remarkable feat of winning this award twice in a row.

This article explores the history, criteria, and notable winners of the Newbery Medal, with a special focus on those who have won it consecutively.

Summary >>

• The Newbery Medal is a prestigious award for children’s literature in the United States.
• Only a few authors have won the Newbery Medal twice in a row.
• Winning the Newbery Medal can have a significant impact on an author’s career and the popularity of their books.
• The award is named after John Newbery, an 18th-century British publisher of children’s books.
• The selection committee evaluates books based on theme, plot development, characterization, style, and illustrations.

The History of the Newbery Medal

The Newbery Medal was established in 1921 by Frederic G. Melcher, an editor at Publishers Weekly, and named after John Newbery, an 18th-century British publisher of children’s books.

Melcher believed that children’s literature deserved recognition and that a distinguished award would elevate the quality of books published for young readers.

The award is administered by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). The medal is awarded annually at the ALA’s Midwinter Conference.

Criteria for Winning the Newbery Medal

To be eligible for the Newbery Medal, a book must be written by a U.S. citizen or resident and published in the United States in English during the preceding year.

The selection committee, composed of children’s librarians and literature experts, evaluates books based on their literary merit, originality, and contribution to children’s literature.

The criteria include:

1. Theme and Concept: The book must present a meaningful and significant theme that resonates with young readers.
2. Plot Development: The plot should be well-structured, engaging, and suitable for the intended age group.
3. Characterization: Characters must be well-developed, believable, and contribute to the overall impact of the story.
4. Style and Language: The writing style should be appropriate for children, with clear and effective use of language.
5. Illustrations: If the book contains illustrations, they should complement and enhance the story.

Notable Newbery Medal Winners

Several authors have won the Newbery Medal more than once, but only a few have won it consecutively.

These authors have made significant contributions to children’s literature and have been recognized for their exceptional storytelling and creativity.

Let’s delve into the lives and works of these distinguished authors.

Authors Who Won the Newbery Medal Twice in a Row

Laura Ingalls Wilder:

Although she never won the Newbery Medal itself, Wilder received five Newbery Honors for her “Little House” series, making her one of the most celebrated authors in children’s literature.
Her vivid portrayal of pioneer life and strong character development have left a lasting impact on readers of all ages.

E.L. Konigsburg:

Elaine Lobl Konigsburg won the Newbery Medal twice, first in 1968 for “From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler” and again in 1970 for “The View from Saturday.” Konigsburg’s ability to create intriguing plots and relatable characters has made her books timeless classics.

“From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler” tells the story of two siblings who run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, while “The View from Saturday” explores the lives of four sixth-grade students who form an academic team.

Lois Lowry:

Lois Lowry won the Newbery Medal twice, first in 1990 for “Number the Stars” and again in 1994 for “The Giver.” Lowry’s works often tackle complex themes such as war, memory, and individuality.

“Number the Stars” is a historical novel set during World War II, focusing on the bravery of a young Danish girl helping to save her Jewish friend from the Nazis.

“The Giver” is a dystopian novel that explores themes of conformity, freedom, and the importance of memory.

Impact of Winning the Newbery Medal

Winning the Newbery Medal can have a significant impact on an author’s career and the popularity of their books. Here are some key effects:

1. Increased Visibility: Newbery Medal winners are prominently displayed in bookstores and libraries, leading to higher sales and readership.
2. Media Attention: Winning the award often brings media coverage, interviews, and book tours, further boosting an author’s profile.
3. Legacy and Influence: Newbery Medal books often become classics, influencing future generations of writers and readers.
4. Educational Use: These books are frequently included in school curricula and reading programs, ensuring they reach a wide audience of young readers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Newbery Medal?
   
   The Newbery Medal is an annual award given to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.
2. Who administers the Newbery Medal?
   
   The Newbery Medal is administered by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA).
3. Can an author win the Newbery Medal more than once?
   
   Yes, an author can win the Newbery Medal more than once, but winning it consecutively is a rare achievement.
4. What is the significance of winning the Newbery Medal?
   
   Winning the Newbery Medal can boost an author’s career, increase the popularity of their books, and provide opportunities for further literary achievements.
5. How are Newbery Medal winners selected?
   
   A committee of children’s librarians and literature experts evaluates books based on their literary merit, originality, and contribution to children’s literature.
6. What types of books are eligible for the Newbery Medal?
   Books must be written by a U.S. citizen or resident, published in the United States in English, and intended for children up to age 14.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is based on available data and may be subject to change. The Newbery Medal is awarded annually, and new winners are announced each year.

Essie Walker

Essie Walker is a versatile blogger and skilled wordsmith with a passion for storytelling.

Essie covers a wide range of topics on her blog, including lifestyle, wellness, travel, and technology, always striving to provide her readers with fresh perspectives and actionable insights