Frederic G. Melcher
Melcher proposed the Caldecott Medal in 1937 to honor children's picture books. Named for British illustrator Randolph Caldecott, the medal is presented annually for the "most distinguished picture book for children".
Mary and Conrad Buff
Mary and Conrad Buff have been recognized as significant contributors to American children's literature. Several times they were among the runners-up for a Caldecott Medal or a Newbery Medal from the professional librarians, the most prestigious American children's book awards. The Caldecott Medal recognizes the illustrator of the previous year's "most distinguished American picture book for children"; they were runners-up for "Dash and Dart" in 1943. The Newbery Medal recognizes the writer of the "most distinguished contribution to American literature for children"; the Buffs were runners-up for "Big Tree" in 1947, "The Apple and the Arrow" in 1952, and "Magic Maize" in 1954.