For Newbery eligibility, a book must be published first or simultaneously in the United States.
The John Newbery Medal recognizes the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. Eligibility requires publication in English by an American publisher in the United States during the preceding year. A book first published abroad in an earlier year is not eligible.
“Simultaneously” has a specific awards meaning: the U.S. edition must appear in the same calendar year as the first edition in another country, even if publication dates differ. The rule concerns the book’s publication history, not the author’s birthplace or citizenship alone.
A common mix-up is assuming that publication in any English-speaking country qualifies. Australia, Canada, or the United Kingdom does not substitute for first or simultaneous U.S. publication under the Newbery rules.