The San José Public Library (SJPL) staff held their 9th annual Mock Caldecott in-person discussion on January 23, 2026.
The Caldecott Award is awarded annually to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children. Staff read a variety of pre-selected titles and discussed as a group which book or books could take home this year's award based on the award's criteria. After some thoughtful and lovely discussion, the SJPL staff voted for a winner and three honor titles.
If you are curious about who will take home the Caldecott and other youth book awards this year, tune in to the Youth Media Awards announcement on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 8 a.m. PST.
SJPL Mock Caldecott 2026 Winner
Every Monday Mabel written and illustrated by Jashar Awan
Every Monday, Mabel wakes up early and peeks out her window to make sure she didn’t miss the one thing she’s been looking forward to the whole week. She drags her chair down the hallway, past her big sister and Mom and Dad, out the door, and waits.
What is Mabel waiting for every Monday? According to Mabel, it’s the best thing in the world. But no one else in her family seems to understand…until they see what’s honking down the street!
Honor Titles
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