Madeline's Rescue by Ludwig Bemelmans (1954)

From what I've seen of Caldecott and Newberry Medal winners, the medal isn't really awarded to a recurring character. It might happen with the first story in a series, but it is unusual to happen further down the road. Madeline is an exception to that rule.

Madeline was the creation of writer Ludwig Bemelmans who served as author and illustrator. The series of books is best known for the opening lines:

"In an old house in Paris, that was covered with vines,
lived twelve little girls in two straight lines...
the smallest one was Madeline."

Madeline was featured in seven stories, and is a favorite among children appearing in books, on television, and in movies.

Madeline's Rescue tells the story of Genevieve, a dog that rescues Madeline after she falls into the Seine river while trying to scare Miss Clavel, the woman that cares for the twelve little girls. All of the girls love Genevieve and there is constant arguments over who gets to spend time with her. At one point the landlord, who does not like dogs, has Genevieve dropped off in the countryside. The girls and Miss Clavel search for their beloved Genevieve with no luck, but she manages to find her way back on her own.Before the arguments can get out of control again, it is discovered that Genevieve has given birth to eleven puppies so all of the girls can have their own dog with no more fighting.

Madeline's adventures happen in France, so there are great opportunities to talk about that culture, and some of the architecture. There is also a great opportunity to talk about sharing, and what fighting about Genevieve did to their little group. You can also use the book for a discussion about pets, and places that might not accept them.

Although the culture is a bit different, and the story is a bit older, the adventures of Madeline have not lost their appeal or applicability. Add this tale to your list because hopefully Madeline will never go out of style.