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Caldecott Medal Predictions 2026

As librarians and educators look ahead to the next awards season, I’ve gathered my personal predictions for the books that could rise to the top when the Caldecott Medal is announced on Monday, January 26, 2026. This watchlist reflects early buzz, standout illustration work, and the type of visual storytelling that often capture the committee’s attention. Think of it as a starting point for exploring the picture books generating excitement in the year ahead. Cranky, Crabby Crow (Saves the World) by Corey R. Tabor Crow is known for being cranky, brushing off every friendly greeting with a sharp “KAW.” But his grumpiness hides a surprising secret: Crow is actually on call for an important mission. When a red phone rings, he slips underground and into a hidden spaceship. His task? Save Earth from an incoming asteroid. Tabor’s expressive artwork and comedic timing give this humorous hero story both charm

Librarian Interview Tips to Help You Ace Your Next Interview

If you’re gearing up for a school librarian interview, first of all, congrats! Whether you’re stepping into the library world for the first time or looking to move to a new school, preparing for the interview is a big step toward landing a role you’ll love. I remember how nerve-wracking it felt trying to figure out how to showcase everything a school librarian does, especially in an elementary setting where your day might include teaching research skills, finding the perfect read-aloud, running a book fair, and supporting classroom teachers with resources. That’s why I’m sharing some of my favorite interview tips to help you feel confident and ready when it’s your turn to shine. How I Prepared for a School Librarian Interview When I was getting ready to interview for a school librarian position, I knew I needed to go beyond just showing my love for books. I had

Improve Library Efficiency with Student Library Helpers

As school librarians, we juggle so much – circulation, shelving, displays, and helping our students find the perfect book to spark their curiosity. It’s a lot to handle and, some days, it can feel like you need an extra set of hands (or five). That’s where library helpers come in! They’re the secret to keeping your library running smoothly while giving students a sense of ownership and responsibility. Whether it’s shelving books or organizing supplies, library helpers can transform your space into a more efficient and welcoming environment. Today, I’m sharing some tips and guidance for how to get library helpers started in your library! Why Library Helpers Are a Game-Changer Having library helpers has completely changed how I manage my library. They don’t just take a load off my plate. They also make the library feel like a shared space where everyone contributes. These student volunteers bring so

Teaching Types of Genres to Elementary Students

If you’ve ever watched your kiddos light up when they connect with a story, you know how powerful books can be. When I introduce different types of genres in the school library, it’s a chance to open the door to new worlds, big ideas, and unforgettable adventures. Picture and chapter books are great for lessons because they’re perfect for breaking down genre elements while keeping children engaged. Whether you’re working with primary students or upper elementary readers, there’s something magical about finding just the right book to bring a genre to life. Today, I’m sharing some favorites that I use when teaching the different types of genres to my students. Breaking Down the Types of Genres Before diving into book recommendations, let’s take a moment to break down what makes up each genre. Understanding the key features of each genre helps our students recognize patterns and appreciate the storytelling

Caldecott Medal Predictions 2025

The Caldecott Medal winner will be revealed on January 27th, 2025. Each year, I compile my own list of potential contenders. While I haven’t read as many books as the committee, I’ve selected 15 titles I believe are strong candidates. These books are listed in alphabetical order, and at the end of this post, I’ll share my top three picks for the Caldecott Medal. Don’t forget to explore my other Caldecott blog posts for more insights! Being Home by Traci Sorrell This book portrays the journey of a young Cherokee girl and her mother as they return to their homeland. As she prepares for the road trip, she draws the different landscapes she sees out her window. She is excited for the journey to end so she can be with her family and start life in a different home. The illustrations enhance the narrative with vivid depictions of landscapes

Win Big with Literati Book Fairs

Have you checked out my blog post about the amazing benefits of hosting a Literati Book Fair? If you’re still undecided about whether a Literati fair is the perfect fit for your school, here’s an exciting opportunity to learn more and win big! By signing up to receive more information, you’ll not only discover how a Literati fair can benefit your school but also get a chance to win a $500 Amazon gift card! 🎉 How exciting is that? Entering is quick and easy. Just click this link and complete the Google form. That’s all it takes to be in the running. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to learn and win! The last day to enter is December 31st. A winner will be announced in early January. Benefits of a Literati Book Fair Terms and Conditions Click here to read the full terms and conditions. New customers

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Caldecott Medal Predictions 2026

Librarian Interview Tips to Help You Ace Your Next Interview

Improve Library Efficiency with Student Library Helpers

Teaching Types of Genres to Elementary Students

Caldecott Medal Predictions 2025

Win Big with Literati Book Fairs

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