RIP Leo Dillon, 1933-2012
As I’m sure you’ve heard the news already but in case you haven’t, yet another star in the Caldecott firmament went out. Leo Dillon, perhaps best known as the first African-American winner of the Caldecott Award, has passed away following complications with a recent surgery. For a recap of his history, his life with Diane, and his work you can read School Library Journal’s excellent obit here. One thing that I would like to point out is that unlike some artists, even at the grand old age of 79 the quality of art Leo produced with Diane never faltered and never dipped. Last year’s Never Forgotten was a perfect example of how he and Diane were better than ever by the end. The man will be seriously missed.
You may read the PW obit here.
This month couldn’t end soon enough.
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About Betsy Bird
Betsy Bird is currently the Collection Development Manager of the Evanston Public Library system and a former Materials Specialist for New York Public Library. She has served on Newbery, written for Kirkus, and has done other lovely little things that she'd love to tell you about but that she's sure you'd find more interesting to hear of in person. Her opinions are her own and do not reflect those of EPL, SLJ, or any of the other acronyms you might be able to name. Follow her on BlueSky at: @fuse8.bsky.social
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Let June 2012 be the month that many great future kidlit people are born.
Oh, well said! Well said.
What I notice, which is kind of lovely, is how many of these legends worked right up to their death, most with works coming out posthumously. How terrific to be productive in a way that matters right up to the end. Maybe there is something about creating for the young that lengthens ability.
It’s still tragic when people leave too early, like your friend Peter. I think of your loss every time I go to check the countdown. I hope you are well. Thank you for providing us with this invaluable resource.