What makes a winning children's book author? Look behind the scenes, and learn more about the 76 fascinating authors who have garnered the prestigious Newbery Medal since it was established in 1922. Engaging profiles of these outstanding writers are generously seasoned with quotes and anecdotes, providing you with unique insights into their personal and professional lives, along with new information on how and why these authors succeeded.

The profiles are organized chronologically, beginning with the first award winner, Hendrik van Loon, and continuing through 2002, when Linda Sue Park made history by becoming the first Korean-American to win a Newbery Medal. Suggested resources for further study and a list of the author's published works for children accompany each biographical sketch. Also included are numerous black-and-white author photos and a brief history of the Newbery Medal. Grades 4-8.