Caldecott Frontrunner: Blessing or Curse?

Two discoveries that will help decide 2027.

Most years, a frontrunner for the Caldecott Medal emerges. A book that, through some combination of art, illustrator, and timing, a lot of people agree has the best shot. But do these favorites end up winning? Or does the award buzz actually hurt a book’s chances?

To say it another way: Is being the Caldecott frontrunner a blessing or a curse?

Looking at data from the last decade, I made two discoveries I didn’t expect, and at least one of them has direct implications for the 2027 Caldecott race. What are the discoveries? And which books are the most likely 2027 frontrunner candidates? Let’s get into it. . .

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