The Laura Ingalls Wilder Award
What it IsThe Laura Ingalls Wilder Award—past winners include E. B. White, Beverly Cleary, and Dr. Seuss—is presented to an author or illustrator whose books, published in the United States, have made a lasting contribution to children's literature.
Story Behind itIn 1954, the ALA established the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award in honor of America's favorite young pioneer woman, who was also the first recipient. The author need not be living when chosen, but some portion of his or her works must have been published in the previous 25 years. The award now is given biennially, and there have been 15 winners to date.
Who PicksAlso issued by the ALSC (like the Newbery and the Caldecott), this award is picked by a jury of five. Judges look for books that continue to be "read and requested by children."
Why We CareReaching beyond the one-hit wonders, this honor recognizes the value of a lifetime's effort—and highlights books that have withstood that test of time.
Find Out MoreFor information about all 15 award winners, log on to the Wilder Medal hompage on the ALA's website.
Recent Winners
2005
Dragonwings
by Laurence Yep (HarperCollins)
Dream Snow
by Eric Carle
(Philomel Books)
