Singh wins a Christopher Award for "Fauja Singh Keeps Going"

New York City-based author Simran Jeet Singh has won a Christopher Award for Fauja Singh Keeps Going (Ages 6 and up--Kokila/Penguin Random House), illustrated by Baljinder Kaur, who lives in Wolverhampton, England.

It is one of 12 books for adults and young people by 17 authors and illustrators honored as the Awards mark their 72nd year. The author and illustrator join creators of 10 winning TV/cable and feature films.

With a message about appreciating people who look different from us, the book tells the true story of a Sikh man who, despite being disabled as a child, became the first person over age 100 to complete a marathon. The book is the first children’s book from a major publisher to center a Sikh story.

The #ChristopherAwards were created in 1949 to celebrate authors, illustrators, writers, producers and directors whose work “affirms the highest values of the human spirit,” and reflects The Christophers' motto, “It’s better to light one candle than to curse the darkness,” said Tony Rossi, director of communications.

Singh signed up for his first marathon after being inspired by Fauja Singh. He is an educator, writer, activist, and scholar who speaks on issues of diversity, inclusion and equity. Currently based at Union Seminary, he is also the host of "Spirited," a podcast on faith and spirituality. He holds a B.A. from Trinity University, San Antonio, an M.T.S from Harvard University and an M.A. and Ph.D from Columbia University.

Baljinder Kaur is an illustrator and storyteller. She enjoys observing, exploring, and expressing the simple joys and often seemingly ordinary details of life around her through mixed media. is her first trade picture book.

The Christophers, a nonprofit founded in 1945 by Maryknoll Father James Keller, is rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition of service to God and humanity. More information about The Christophers is available at www.christophers.org.