It’s Medal Day! Many of us are looking forward to The Olympic Games next month in Sochi, but did you know that some important literary medals were awarded today?

The winners of the John Newbery Medal and the Randolph Caldecott Medal were announced this morning in Philadelphia.

The 2014 recipient of the John Newbery Medal for “most outstanding contribution to children’s literature” is Kate Dicamillo for her book “Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures”. This is not the first time that Kate has been rewarded for her work. She also received the Newbery Medal in 2004 for her book “The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread”. In 2001, “Because of Winn Dixie” was named a Newbery Medal Honor Book.

2014 Newbery Honor Books:

“Doll Bones,” written by Holly Black
“The Year of Billy Miller,” written by Kevin Henkes
“One Came Home,” written by Amy Timberlake
“Paperboy,” written by Vince Vawter

The Randolph Caldecott Medal is awarded to “most distinguished American picture book for children” and the 2014 winner is “Locomotive,” illustrated and written by Brian Floca.

2014 Caldecott Honor Books:

“Journey,” written and illustrated by Aaron Becker
“Flora and the Flamingo,” written and illustrated by Molly Idle
“Mr. Wuffles!” written and illustrated by David Wiesner

Congratulations to both of the medal winners and to the honor books! If you need suggestions for what to read to your kids during this long cold winter, today’s winning books are a great place to start!