Erin Entrada Kelly’s ‘The First State of Being’ wins the Newbery Medal for outstanding children’s literature

NEW YORK — Erin Entrada Kelly’s novel “The First State of Being,” a unique coming-of-age narrative that artfully intertwines time travel with the backdrop of the year 2000, has been honored with the prestigious John Newbery Medal, recognizing it as the best children’s book of the year. Meanwhile, the Randolph Caldecott Medal for the best illustrated story was awarded to “Chooch Helped,” a poignant tale of Cherokee siblings, with illustrations brought to life by Rebecca Lee Kunz and penned by Andrea L. Rogers.

Chanel Miller’s work, “Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All,” received recognition as a runner-up for the Newbery prize. Miller, widely known for her poignant memoir “Know My Name,” recounts her traumatic experience of sexual assault at Stanford University, showcasing her literary prowess.

The announcement of these distinguished awards took place on Monday during the American Library Association’s gathering in Phoenix at the “LibLearnX: The Library Learning Experience” event.

Jason Reynolds was recognized with the Coretta Scott Award for his outstanding work “Twenty-four Seconds from Now …,” celebrating contributions by Black authors. Additionally, the King award for illustrated works was given to “My Daddy Is a Cowboy,” illustrated by C.G. Esperanza and authored by Stephanie Seales. Carolyn L. Garnes, a revered library director and founder of Aunt Lil’s Reading Room, received the King/Virginia Hamilton Award for her lifetime contributions to literature.

The Michael L. Printz Award for excellence in young adult literature went to “Brownstone,” written by Samuel Teer and illustrated by Mar Julia. On the front of LGBTQ literature, Jes and Cin Wibowo’s “Lunar Boy” claimed the Stonewall Award for the best children’s book, while Jonny Garza Villa’s “Canto Contigo” earned the same accolade for young adult literature.

The Pura Belpré Awards celebrating Latino authors and illustrators were also announced, recognizing “Abuelo, the Sea, and Me,” illustrated by Tatiana Gardel and written by Ismée Williams for its artistic merit. Karla Arenas Valenti’s “Lola” received accolades in the best children’s author category, while the young adult award was presented to Carolina Ixta for her work “Shut Up, This Is Serious.”