The 2025 Caldecott Medal

Summary: Jun, a young girl from Hong Kong, faces the daunting challenge of adapting to a new school in America with only a few English words. Her lunchbox, filled with familiar dishes like bao and dumplings, becomes a comforting reminder of home. As she navigates this foreign environment, Jun discovers that the taste of home can bridge the gap between cultures, offering unexpected connections and friendships. Will these small comforts help her find her place in this new world? This beautifully illustrated tale explores the universal themes of belonging and the power of food to connect us all.

Summary: In the quiet before dawn, a young girl and her father embark on a horseback ride through their city. As they trot along, her father shares cowboy tales of community and pride. Through this journey, she sees her world anew and realizes her own strength and confidence as a cowboy. This picture book beautifully captures the joy of shared moments and self-discovery, celebrating the bond between parent and child.

Summary: In bustling Tokyo, bicycle deliverymen balance steaming noodles as they weave through crowded streets. Children watch in awe, dreaming of joining their acrobatic ranks. Will they master the art of demae?

Summary: Junko Tabei dreams of climbing mountains, but societal barriers and ill-fitting gear stand in her way. Undeterred, she leads an all-women team to Everest's peak, battling avalanches and icy crevasses. Her triumph inspires a new mission: safeguarding the wild landscapes she cherishes. Will her legacy empower others to pursue their dreams?