Guest Author - Lucinda Moriarty

When discussing picture books, the name of Randolph Caldecott – or one of the many picture books bearing the Caldecott Medal – will inevitably come up in conversation.

Besides the possibility of one day becoming a recipient of this honor, what can the career of Randolph Caldecott teach the aspiring children’s book writer and/or illustrator attempting to break into today’s competitive children’s book market?

As a starting point, it helps to know a little bit about the man and the period in which he lived.

Although Randolph Caldecott was only 39 when he died in 1886, he left a legacy to all of us who love children’s books. As an accomplished artist who exhibited at the Royal Academy in London, he may very well be best remembered for his key contribution to the evolution of the modern day picture book.

When Caldecott started illustrating books for children, picture books contained art that was decorative. Illustrations, while beautiful, did nothing to enhance or further the story. Pictures and text were companions but not partners.

Caldecott was the first to use his illustrations to interpret the text. The illustrations were integrated with the words to elevate the story to a new and exciting level. This laid the foundation for the type of picture book that children – and let’s face it, many adults – enjoy today.

Unlike many of his peers, his art was light and sometimes humorous. If you look at the Caldecott Medal itself you can see his illustration from The Diverting Story of John Gilpin. This one image is a wonderful example of illustration infused with humor and action.

When you are outlining your next picture book, remember how Caldecott took the picture book to the next level by using humor and style. Think about how pictures will work in tandem with the text to tell the story. Consider what is ordinary, and use your imagination to push your story to the extraordinary. The term “thinking outside of the box” is overused, but it is exactly what Caldecott did with his illustrations.

The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually by the American Library Association. It is granted to the artist of the most distinguished picture book in America published in the preceding year.

If you would like to know more about Randolph Caldecott, there are several websites you can visit including the Randolph Caldecott Society of America at www.rcsamerica.com.