- Madeline is one of the best-loved characters in children"s literature. Set in picturesque Paris, this tale of a brave little girl"s trip to the hospital was a Caldecott Honor Book in 1940 and has as much appeal today as it did then. The combination of a spirited heroine, timelessly appealing art, cheerful humor, and rhythmic text makes Madeline a perennial favorite with children of all ages. No one has ever written more delightful stories than the Madeline books, whose text and pictures are cherished by parents as well as by youngsters, and which have brightened the evening shadows at many a bedtime.