“Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service” — the theme of this year’s National Catholic Schools Week (Jan. 25-31) — epitomizes the ideal foundation for classroom and school libraries.

The library in a Catholic school must reach beyond the usual fiction and non-fiction fare by stocking books that help to shape the minds and souls of children.

Faith is fostered as children read favorite Bible stories with engaging illustrations and age-appropriate language.

Faith grows stronger as the saints come to life and inspire young readers to emulate their virtues.

Knowledge is gained through the many books about the Church, its sacraments and the faithful’s mission.

It is not enough, though, that these words remain on the page. The words must fly off the page and find the hearts of the readers, prompting them to serve God and others. Possible? Absolutely! Just read the graphic novel about St. Ignatius of Loyola, one of many good reads ideal for a bookshelf at a school near you.

 

Mary and the 50 States

Written and illustrated by Brenda and George Nippert

Joseph’s Heartprint (CatholicArtworks.com), 2009

32 pages, $8

This creative book plates up an ample serving of religion with side dishes of geography and history. Based on a litany written in 1976 for the bicentennial celebration of the United States, it pairs each state with a title drawn from Marian churches in that state. Readers encounter the known and lesser known faces of Mary as they vicariously travel around our country. Arranged alphabetically, the illustrated stories of Mary are sure to inform and inspire, from Alabama (Our Lady of the Gulf) to Wyoming (St. Mary of the Valley). Includes bonus stories of Mary, patroness of the United States (Immaculate Conception), the Americas (Our Lady of Guadalupe) and the District of Columbia (Immaculate Queen). Ages 9 and older.

 

Tell Me About the Catholic Faith: From the Bible to the Sacraments

Written and illustrated by various contributors under the direction of Most. Rev. Michel Dubost

Ignatius Press, 2013

176 pages, $19.99

Msgr. Michel Dubost invites young readers to join him and others on an adventure. That adventure, he says, has a name: Jesus. Jesus is both our companion for the journey and our destination. Divided into three parts, this book explores the Bible (the “Great Book of Christians”), the Christian faithful (the history of the Church) and the Catholic faith (belief and the sacraments). Rich content is complemented by an appealing layout chock-full of clever graphics, large type and generous white space. “Through the Year With Jesus” (the liturgical calendar) and stories about the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus offer a good launching point for discussing the upcoming season of Lent. Ages 6 and older.

 

Nighty Night, Noah/Nighty Night, Baby Jesus

Written and illustrated by Molly Schaar Idle

Abingdon Press, 2012

72 pages, $14.99

While stories of Noah’s ark abound, this book is a Bible tale, alphabet lesson and bedtime story all rolled into one. Told in rhyming couplets (“For 40 days and 40 nights rain fell upon the ark,/ Now all aboard catch 40 winks as daylight turns to dark”), the story follows Noah as he tucks each of the animals into bed in alphabetical order. From alligators to yaks, every animal duo is sure to catch some Zs under Noah’s tender care. As a bonus, flip this book over and read the charming story of Nighty Night, Baby Jesus. With two stories in one, this book is sure to be a hit both at home and in Catholic classrooms. Ages 4-8.

 

Bye-Bye, Bully! A Kid’s Guide for Dealing With Bullies

Written by J. S. Jackson

Illustrated by R. W. Alley

Abbey Press, 2010

32 pages, $12.95

Bullying is a difficult problem in many schools — even Catholic ones. Written in a clear but non-threatening tone, this book shows how the problem of bullying can be both tough and pervasive. This helpful guide provides an overview of types of bullying and offers young readers practical advice for drawing on social, emotional, psychological and spiritual reserves for dealing with it. The concrete suggestions offer proactive guidance and are worthy of classroom discussion time. Ages 7-12.

 

Juan Diego: Mary’s Humble Messenger

Written by Barbara Yoffie

Illustrated by Katherine A. Borgatti

Ligouri, 2012

32 pages, $4.99

The miraculous story of Juan Diego and our Lady of Guadalupe unfolds in this colorfully illustrated book. Part of the Saints of North America series, this text is just right for readers who are ready to make the jump from picture books to slightly longer texts. A map, glossary and suggestions for teachers and parents offer the support needed for young learners to get the most out of this book and accompanying series. Ages 6-10.

 

Lessons From Pope Francis for Children

Written by Angela M. Burrin

Illustrated by Maria Cristina Lo Cascia

The Word Among Us Press, 2014

32 pages, $12.95

The words of Pope Francis have inspired adults around the world. Now, this book offers the Pope’s words of wisdom for the younger set. Each double-page spread features a richly illustrated lesson from the Gospel, which is linked with a quote from Pope Francis. Helpful, practical tips for linking faith and everyday life (“Why don’t you stop right now and ask the Holy Spirit to help Pope Francis?” “Did you know that Pope Francis tweets? Perhaps you can ask your parents to show you some of them.”) abound. This is a great introduction to the Holy Father and his role in the Church and beyond. Ages 7-11.

 

Saint Ignatius of Loyola: Leading the Way

Written by Toni Matas

Illustrated by Picanyol

Pauline, 2013

52 pages, $8.95

The comic book has grown up! The text-rich “graphic novel” increasingly finds a seat at the reading table in the classroom, library and home. This full-color story of St. Ignatius, or Inigo, as he was known, begins with his family life surrounded by 12 siblings, his quest for knighthood often marked by recklessness and a severe battle injury that changed Ignatius’ course. While recovering, Ignatius reads about the life of Christ and his saints, and he determines to follow Jesus. His writing of the Spiritual Exercises and founding of the Society of Jesus round out this saintly adventure story. Also available are companion graphic novels profiling Sts. Francis of Assisi, Joan of Arc and Bernadette. Ages 9 and older.

The Crawford sisters write from Pittsburgh.