Meindert De Jong

Meindert De Jong (1906-1991) was a Dutch-born American author renowned for his children's literature, particularly stories featuring children and animals often reflecting his Dutch heritage. His most notable works include The Wheel on the School, which won the Newbery Medal in 1955, and others like Shadrach, Hurry Home, Candy, The House of Sixty Fathers, and Along Came a Dog that received Newbery Honors; he also earned the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1962 as the first American recipient and the National Book Award for Journey from Peppermint Street in 1969.