The Newbery Award is a prestigious annual award given by the American Library Association to the author of the most distinguished contribution to children's literature. Established in 1922, it honors books published in the United States that are aimed at children and young adults. The award is named after John Newbery, an 18th-century publisher known for promoting children's books. The selection process involves a committee of librarians who evaluate eligible books based on criteria such as literary quality, originality, and appeal to children. Winning the Newbery Medal can significantly increase a book's visibility and readership, making it a highly sought-after accolade in the field of children's literature.