The Theodor Seuss Geisel award is hard to predict. I think the reason is because you think of the award as going to early readers (Fly Guy, Elephant & Piggie, Henry and Mudge, etc.) – and it does – but the committee often throws a curveball and gives an award to a picture book (the most recent winners include Supertruck by Stephen Savage and Waiting by Kevin Henkes). I’m usually looking at picture books with my Caldecott hat on and give an “oh yeah, I hadn’t thought of that” when someone mentions a picture book with Geisel potential.

But I’m trying anyway.

And if you into the Geisel, be sure to check out the Guessing Geisel blog.

Geisel Medal Prediction:

The Thank You Book by Mo Willems

To the Geisel committee I say: just do it. Everyone will understand.

Geisel Honor Prediction:

Snail & Worm: Three Stories About Two Friends by Tina Kügler

A bit of a picture book/early reader tweener, the dialog style and basic vocabulary work wonderfully for newly independent readers. Add to this the fact that each of the three stories have silliness and sweetness (and surprise) in equal measure, and you have a pretty appealing Geisel possibility.

Geisel Honor Prediction:

Go Otto Go by David Milgrim

This year a batch of Adventures of Otto books were released (this one is my favorite of the group) and something tells me maybe Otto will get some Geisel recognition. It’s a hunch, sure, but aside from a fun story, Go Otto Go is also the book on this list that checks the most “learning to read” boxes: short, simple sentences, gradual new word introduction, and word repetition.

Geisel Honor Prediction:

Good Night Owl by Greg Pizzoli

Pizzoli’s books are always well suited for this award (He won the 2014 Geisel Medal with The Watermelon Seed), and this one continues his streak of funny, engaging stories told in a way that works for beginning readers.

And also look out for . . .

I wouldn’t be surprised to see any of the following fine books get shiny stickers, either.