Last Stop on Market Street has garnered widespread acclaim, securing its place as a beloved and award-winning children’s book. This heartwarming story, penned by Matt de la Peña and brought to life by Christian Robinson’s vibrant illustrations, resonates deeply with readers of all ages. The book’s numerous accolades speak volumes about its impact and artistic merit, making it a standout title in contemporary children’s literature. Let’s explore the praise that has been heaped upon this exceptional book.
Award-Winning Recognition for Last Stop on Market Street
The book’s impressive list of awards underscores its literary and artistic significance. Last Stop on Market Street proudly wears the Newbery Medal, one of the highest honors in children’s literature, and is also a Caldecott Honor Book, recognizing the exceptional artistry of Christian Robinson’s illustrations. Further solidifying its position as a critically acclaimed work, the book achieved bestseller status, reaching #1 on the New York Times Bestseller list and becoming a USA Today Bestseller.
Beyond these pinnacle achievements, Last Stop on Market Street has been recognized by a multitude of esteemed organizations and publications as a Best Book of the Year. These include:
- New York Times Notable Children’s Book of the Year
- Wall Street Journal Best Book of the Year
- NPR Best Book of the Year
- The Huffington Post Best Overall Picture Book of the Year
- Boston Globe Best Book of the Year
- Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year
- Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
- Horn Book Best Book of the Year
- Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year
- New York Public Library 100 Books for Reading & Sharing Pick
- Miami Herald Best Children’s Book of the Year
- Raleigh News & Observer Best Children’s Book of the Year
- Atlanta Parent Best Book of the Year
- Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book
This extensive recognition highlights the book’s broad appeal and its ability to connect with diverse audiences and critical voices.
Critical Acclaim: Voices Praising Last Stop on Market Street
Reviewers from leading publications have lauded Last Stop on Market Street for its warmth, insightful narrative, and captivating illustrations. The New York Times noted the “warmth of their intergenerational relationship,” emphasizing the book’s ability to resonate with both children and adults. The Wall Street Journal further praised the book’s subtle yet powerful message, stating, “That material poverty need not mean spiritual or imaginative poverty becomes beautifully clear.”
The Washington Post celebrated Matt de la Peña’s “musical in its cadences” storytelling and Christian Robinson’s “energetic and vibrant” illustrations, highlighting the book as “a celebration of the joys of service, the gifts of grandmothers and the tenderness that the city can contain.” The Boston Globe echoed this sentiment, commending the “sharp illustrations” that capture CJ’s energy and the “subtle point and counterpoint” in the voices of CJ and his grandmother, creating a “song-like” reading experience.
Starred reviews from prominent literary journals further cemented the book’s exceptional quality. Kirkus Reviews declared it a “textual and artistic tour de force,” while Publishers Weekly emphasized its depth, stating, “Like still waters, de la Peña and Robinson’s story runs deep. It finds beauty in unexpected places…and testifies to the love shared by an African-American boy and his grandmother.” The Horn Book drew a connection to Ezra Jack Keats, praising the book as “quietly remarkable” and emotionally resonant. Shelf Awareness lauded de la Peña’s “precision of a poet” and Robinson’s “uplifting palette,” highlighting the book’s ability to brighten a “rainy-day backdrop.”
Themes and Impact: Why Last Stop on Market Street Resonates
Reviewers also pointed to the book’s successful portrayal of important themes. School Library Journal praised its “urban setting” as “truly reflective, showing people with different skin colors, body types, abilities, ages, and classes in a natural and authentic manner.” BookPage celebrated the book’s subtle and seamless addressing of class, calling it “an ode to gratitude” and “2015’s first must-read picture book.” The Huffington Post even predicted Caldecott recognition for Robinson’s work, recognizing Last Stop on Market Street as “an early favorite for the best picture book of 2015.”
The book’s “positive message” is further emphasized by The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, noting the “bright colors and streamlined shapes” that contribute to the cheerful urban setting. School Library Connection highlighted the rich language and contemporary feel, stating, “This story is full of figurative language and the art provides a distinct contemporary feel to support this urban story.”
In conclusion, Last Stop on Market Street stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and illustration to create meaningful and impactful work for children. The overwhelming praise and numerous accolades are a clear indication of its success in capturing hearts and minds, making it a truly exceptional book worthy of its recognition.
