Bemelmans, BEHM uhl muhnz, Ludwig (1898-1962), was an American author and artist. He became best known for his children's books, especially six picture books about a young girl in Paris named Madeline. Bemelmans won the 1954 Caldecott Medal for his charming and colorful illustrations for Madeline's Rescue (1953). He began the series with Madeline (1939).