CCBC Booklists

CCBC booklist are compiled from books we have recommended in various editions of CCBC Choices. Most of these booklists are updated annually. You can also select books from one or more booklists to create a custom list, which can also include additional books from the CCBC-Recommended Book Search.

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Love Is Hard Work: The Art and Heart of Corita Kent

by Dan Paley

CCBC Review:

During the 1950s and 1960s, when the Catholic church and society in general were undergoing transformation, Sister Corita Kent, a teacher and artist, embraced change, encouraging her students to think outside the box while creating art of her own that was rooted in social justice. When she and her fellow Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters faced pushback from Church traditionalists, Corita followed a new path, fully embracing her identity as an artist. “She believed art had the power to recognize people in need, to inspire action, and to be a source of hope and joy in a troubled world.” This picture book profile of Corita Kent celebrates the life and legacy of a woman whose work was an expression of her love, compassion, and commitment to working for a better world. Colorful, energetic illustrations reflect the buoyant spirit, if not graphic style, of Corita Kent’s art. ©2025 Cooperative Children’s Book Center

Illustrated by Victoria Tentler-Krylov

CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 6-10
Age Range: PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7) Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format: Biography, Autobiography and Memoir
Subjects: 20th Century Activism and Resistance Art and Artists Biography Creativity Empathy and Compassion Faith, Spirituality and Religion Teachers/Mentors
Diversity subject: Christian
On CCBC Booklist: Picture Books for Older Children and Teens: Never Too Old

Publisher: Candlewick
Publish Year: 2024
Pages: 40
ISBN: 9781536220322
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 769 Paley

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our Recommended Book Search includes access to CCBC-recommended titles based on subject headings created by our staff.

Please send questions or comments about CCBC booklists to ccbcinfo@education.wisc.edu.