Maybe if I look up the official definition of the word “predict”, it will unlock something inside of me that will allow me to pick every Caldecott book this year. Let’s try it.

Hm. Observation, experience, OR science? Can’t say I’m getting an unlock-y feeling.

I’ve been trying to predict the Caldecott annually since I started this blog. I usually hit on one of my picks. But this year – THIS year, I’m going to call ’em all.

It’s more of a “here are the books I think might win” than a “here are the books I’m hoping for in my heart of hearts”. Obviously, there are a slew of utterly deserving books not included that I would be thrilled to see win medals.

Here are my picks for 2017 Caldecott glory.

Caldecott Medal Prediction:

They All Saw a Cat by Brendan Wenzel

The cat from the cover is rendered in a different style on almost every page of the book. But it’s not just a show-off move – it fits with the themes of perspective and observation contained in the story. To my eyes it has some of the most memorable illustrations of the year, which helps.

Caldecott Honor Prediction:

Du Iz Tak? by Carson Ellis

The invented language of the text means the illustrations end up carrying more of the storytelling load. It’s an impressive feat as Ellis weaves a web of intricate insect storylines.

Caldecott Honor Prediction:

Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe

I just don’t see how you can look at this book and not be astounded by the artwork. I see it meshing well with the Caldecott criteria – we’ll see if the committee agrees.

Caldecott Honor Prediction:

Maybe Something Beautiful: How Art Transformed a Neighborhood by F. Isabel Campoy, Theresa Howell, illustrated by Rafael López

From the front/back endpaper transformation to the way the murals in the book interact with the setting, there’s a whole lot of subtle skill here that I think the Caldecott committee will notice.

What’s your prediction?