Books about hungry children and orphans; and helping the homeless, prisoners, and people with disabilities were recognized with 2015 Christopher Awards, reflecting the organization's mission to honor authors, illustrators, filmmakers, and creators of television shows whose work “affirms the highest values of the human spirit.”
Among the six winners for adult books are Fully Alive (Sarah Crichton Books/FSG) by Special Olympics chairman Timothy Shriver; Jesus: A Pilgrimage (HarperOne), by Jesuit priest James Martin; and Mercy in the City (Loyola Press), a memoir by America editor Kerry Weber, about her work among the homeless in New York City and inmates at San Quentin State Prison in California.
Five children’s books were honored, including I Forgive You (Pauline Books and Media) by Nicole Lataif, illust. by Katy Betz; Here’s Hank: Bookmarks Are People Too (Grosset & Dunlap/Penguin) by Henry Winkler, illust. by Lin Oliver; and Eliza Bing Is (Not) a Big, Fat Quitter (Holiday House) by Carmella Van Vleet.
A nonprofit organization founded by Catholic priest Fr. James Keller in 1945, the Christophers "celebrate both sacred and secular works across a variety of media," said director of communications Tony Rossi. "The stories we’re honoring—whether true or fictional—highlight people who rise above their own wants and needs to act selflessly, regardless of the sacrifice involved.”
In addition to the 15 authors and illustrators of the winning books, 83 creators of nine films and TV programs also received Christopher Awards, which will be presented at the 66th annual Christopher Awards banquet in New York City on May 13. For a complete list of winners go to The 2015 Christopher Awards.
