Randolph Caldecott Medal, known as just the Caldecott, honors the best American picture book for children of the previous year. The award is given by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). The Caldecott is considered the most prestigious American children's picture book awards.

Picture: 2022 winner - Watercress, written by Andrea Wang, illustrated by Jason Chin. Source

The Caldecott Medal was first proposed by Frederic G. Melcher, in 1937. The award was named after English illustrator Randolph Caldecott. Unchanged since its founding, the medal, which is given to every winner, features two of Caldecott's illustrations. Frederic G. Melcher proposed the Caldecott Medal in 1937. He named it after British illustrator Randolph Caldecott. Two of Caldecott's illustrations still appear on the medal, which has been given to every winner since the award's founding.

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The Caldecott Medal:

• Weighs 3.1 ounces.

• Has a 2 and one-third inch diameter.

• Is not worn, but rather, is presented in a cherry wood box for display on a desk or other flat surface.

The committee that decides on the Caldecott Award winner comprises fifteen members of ALSC.