LARC Mocks: 2026 Picture Books

1. In identifying a “distinguished American picture book for children,” defined as illustration, committee members need to consider:
   1. Excellence of execution in the artistic technique employed;
   2. Excellence of pictorial interpretation of story, theme, or concept;
   3. Appropriateness of style of illustration to the story, theme or concept;
   4. Delineation of plot, theme, characters, setting, mood or information through the pictures;
   5. Excellence of presentation in recognition of a child audience.
2. The only limitation to graphic form is that the form must be one which may be used in a picture book. The book must be a self-contained entity, not dependent on other media (i.e., sound, film or computer program) for its enjoyment.
3. Each book is to be considered as a picture book. The committee is to make its decision primarily on the illustration, but other components of a book are to be considered especially when they make a book less effective as a children’s picture book. Such other components might include the written text, the overall design of the book, etc.

Note: The committee should keep in mind that the award is for distinguished illustrations in a picture book and for excellence of pictorial presentation for children. The award is not for didactic intent or for popularity.