Medals: Newberry and Caldecott 2005

Kira-Kira, written by Cynthia Kadohata, won the 2005 John Newberry medal of honor, which recognizes outstanding writing. Kadohata’s poignant words describe the strong love within a Japanese American family and the personal challenges the family faces against the oppressive social climate of the South during the 1950s and early 1960s.

The story takes place over a span of almost 10 years. Kira-Kira is published by Atheneum Books for young Readers, an imprint of Simon and Schuster.

Kevin Henkes’ artwork in Kitten’s First Full Moon won the 2005 Randolph Caldecott medal for outstanding illustrations. The story is about a kitten that mistakes the moon for a bowl of milk. Boldly outlined organic shapes with shades of black, white, and gray have rose undertones on creamy paper. Gouache and colored pencil illustrations create varied page designs that rhythmically paces the spare text.

I can’t wait until my next trip to the bookstore so that I can purchase both books for my grandchildren. Of course, I will read them first.

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