For years, the Caldecott and Newbery award winners have topped our reading lists for children's literature. However, few people are aware of the Coretta Scott King (CSK) award for children's literature. Coretta Scott King who sadly left this world in 2006, was an American author, activist, civil rights leader, and widow of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
In 1970, the Coretta Scott King award for children's literature was created, recognizing the contributions of African American authors and illustrators whose work embodied three distinct elements: Peace, Brotherhood and Non-Violent Social Change.
Now, in your Children's Picture Book rooms, you can more easily identify CSK award winning books from not just the medal on their front cover, but also this symbol at the base of the spine of the book:
Look for this symbol, and enjoy some of the finest children's literature being produced today!