Intro
Teaching Through Books series: These books and lesson pairings were created by teacher-librarians and educators to engage learners. Lesson plans can be adapted. Addition anchor books are included for your convenience. Not all suggested anchor books were available but may be found in your local library collection. More resources from TEACH Magazine: https://teachmag.com/teaching-through-books
Click the to learn more about each book.
Ableism: Teaching Through Books: K-3
Ableism refers to the attitude and underlying social prejudice of assuming that all individuals can, or should, be able to do things in the same way. Ableism undermines and harms people living with diverse abilities and disabilities, and impacts society as a whole by continuing harmful stereotypes and overgeneralizations that devalue and perpetuate discrimination.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
5 books, 1 duotang.
I Talk Like a River by
Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Winner What if words got stuck in the back of your mouth whenever you tried to speak? What if they never came out the way you wanted them to? Sometimes it takes a change of perspective to get the words flowing. A New York Times Best Children's Book of the Year I wake up each morning with the sounds of words all around me. And I can't say them all . . . When a boy who stutters feels isolated, alone, and incapable of communicating in the way he'd like, it takes a kindly father and a walk by the river to help him find his voice. Compassionate parents everywhere will instantly recognize a father's ability to reconnect a child with the world around him. Poet Jordan Scott writes movingly in this powerful and ultimately uplifting book, based on his own experience, and masterfully illustrated by Greenaway Medalist Sydney Smith. A book for any child who feels lost, lonely, or unable to fit in. Finalist for the BC and Yukon Christie Harris Illustrated Children's Literature Prize A Charlotte Zolotow Honor Book An American Library Association Notable Children's Book ILA Primary Fiction Honoree Named a Best Book of the Year by The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, NPR, Kirkus Reviews, Shelf Awareness, Bookpage, School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Publishers Lunch, and more! A Horn Book Fanfare Best Book of the Year A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection A Bank Street Best Childrens Book of the Year! A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year A CBC Best Picture Book of the Year A Kids' Book Choice Award Finalist
ISBN: 9780823445592Publication Date: 2020-09-01
My Art, My World by
Rita: Do we have any boxes? Mom: Sure, Why do you need a box? Rita: My teacher says I have to think outside the box! Approaching her daily life with enthusiasm and humour, Rita rides public transit to her job working at a university coffee shop. She takes yoga and folk dance classes and enjoys drama and music at a day program, and she practices using sign language. In My Art, My World, Rita shows us her love for the world through her great passion: making beautiful and fun works of art. Proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to organizations that enhance the lives of people with developmental disabilities.
ISBN: 9781772602142Publication Date: 2021-10-19
My Ocean Is Blue by
A young girl's poetic exploration of the enchanting ocean she loves. "This is my ocean", the young girl begins as she heads over the dunes with her mother. Then, as they pass the whole day at the seaside, she lyrically describes her ocean in simple, sensory detail. It's both "slimy" and "sandy," "sparkly" and "dull." It has wonderful sounds, as it "splashes and crashes and echoes and squawks." And it contains so many colors, from "rusted orange" to "runaway red," "faded white" to "polished green." Though "mostly it's blue." Nothing the girl experiences escapes her careful observation and appreciation. And at day's end, she can't wait for her next trip to the beach. Author Darren Lebeuf, an award-winning photographer, uses spare text and a rhythmic style to create an evocative read-aloud. The vivid adjectives, both concrete and abstract, will inspire children to try to capture in words what they notice not only at the ocean, but in any natural setting. The bright, richly colored cut-paper collage illustrations by Ashley Barron add a captivating visual texture and depth to the story. The portrayal of a girl with a physical disability enjoying and actively participating in a day at the beach encourages all children to do the same in their own lives, while also offering a character education lesson in adaptability. This book has strong curriculum ties to primary nature units and life science lessons on oceans and the seaside, and it offers a perfect focus for nature-based education and outdoor classrooms.
ISBN: 9781525301438Publication Date: 2020-03-03
A Sky-Blue Bench by
It's Afghan schoolgirl Aria's first day back at school since her accident. She's excited, but she's also worried about sitting on the hard floor all day with her new prosthetic "helper-leg." Just as Aria feared, sitting on the floor is so uncomfortable that she can't think about learning at all. She knows that before the war changed many things in Afghanistan, schools like hers had benches for students to sit at. If she had a bench, her leg would not hurt so much. The answer is obvious: she will gather materials, talk to Kaka Najar, the carpenter in the old city, and learn to build a bench for herself. In A Sky-Blue Bench, Bahram Rahman, author of The Library Bus, returns again to the setting of his homeland, Afghanistan, to reveal the resilience and resolve of young children--especially young girls--who face barriers to education. Illustrator Peggy Collins imbues Aria with an infectious spunkiness and grit that make her relatable even to readers with a very different school experience. An author's note gently introduces an age-appropriate discussion of landmines and their impact on the lives of children in many nations, especially Afghanistan, which has the highest concentration of landmines of any country in the world. Don't miss The Library Bus, also by Bahram Rahman Winner of the Middle East Book Award Finalist for the Governor General's Literary Award Finalist for the Florida Literary Association Children's Book Award Finalist for the OLA Forest of Reading Blue Spruce Award Winner of the Northern Lights Book Award: Multicultural Category
ISBN: 9781772782226Publication Date: 2021-11-30
We Move Together by
A bold and colourful exploration of all the ways that people navigate through the spaces around them and a celebration of the relationships we build along the way. We Move Together follows a mixed-ability group of kids as they creatively negotiate everyday barriers and find joy and connection in disability culture and community. A perfect tool for families, schools, and libraries to facilitate conversations about disability, accessibility, social justice and community building. Includes a kid-friendly glossary (for ages 6-9).
ISBN: 9781849354042Publication Date: 2021-04-06
Allyship: Teaching Through Books: K-3
In learning about ideas of allyship, students are able to connect to their own identity and the identities of others. Reading and exploring texts that focus on the lived experiences of a broader global community can help students to better understand their learning community, and by focusing on the theme of allyship, we can work to intentionally build a more inclusive society.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
5 books, 1 duotang.
Everybody! by
An exploration of empathy and unity – featuring Elise Gravel’s signature quirky monsters!
Everybody is unique and different. But we are all more similar than we think. Just like you:
Everybody has fears.
Everybody has moments of joy . . . and moments of sadness.
Everybody makes mistakes . . . and can fix them.
And, just like you, everybody needs to feel safe and valued.
From beloved children’s author Elise Gravel comes a reassuring picture book, perfect for trying times.
ISBN: 9781443191678Publication Date: 2021-10-05
My Name Is Saajin Singh by
A debut picture book that explores the importance of pronouncing names properly and celebrates cultural identity. Saajin loves his name--he loves it so much that he sees it spelled out in the world around him in his snacks, in the sky and sometimes he even sings it aloud. On his first day of school, Saajin is excited to meet his new classmates, but things take a turn when the teacher mispronounces his name as Say-jin and he is not sure how--or if he should--correct her. After trying to live with the different version of his name for a while and some thoughtful conversations with his family about the meaning behind it, Saajin realizes the importance of reclaiming his name and embracing his identity. This empowering story, accompanied by energetic and vibrant art by Samrath Kaur, will resonate with any reader who has ever felt misunderstood.
ISBN: 9781773217055Publication Date: 2022-08-16
Pink, Blue, and You! by
Simple, accessible, and direct, this picture book is perfect for kids and parents or teachers to read together, opening the door to conversations about gender stereotypes and everyone's right to be their true selves. Is it okay for boys to cry? Can girls be strong? Should girls and boys be given different toys to play with and different clothes to wear? Should we all feel free to love whoever we choose to love? In this incredibly kid-friendly and easy-to-grasp picture book, author-illustrator Elise Gravel and transgender collaborator Mykaell Blais raise these questions and others relating to gender roles, acceptance, and stereotyping. With its simple language, colorful illustrations, engaging backmatter that showcases how "appropriate" male and female fashion has changed through history, and even a poster kids can hang on their wall, here is the ideal tool to help in conversations about a multi-layered and important topic.
ISBN: 9780593178638Publication Date: 2022-03-08
Say Something! by
From the creator of the New York Times bestseller The Word Collector comes an empowering story about finding your voice, and using it to make the world a better place.A New York Times BestsellerThe world needs your voice. If you have a brilliant idea... say something! If you see an injustice... say something!In this empowering new picture book, beloved author Peter H. Reynolds explores the many ways that a single voice can make a difference. Each of us, each and every day, have the chance to say something: with our actions, our words, and our voices. Perfect for kid activists everywhere, this timely story reminds readers of the undeniable importance and power of their voice. There are so many ways to tell the world who you are... what you are thinking... and what you believe. And how you'll make it better. The time is now: SAY SOMETHING!"A motivational must-have for every collection." -- School Library Journal
ISBN: 9780545865036Publication Date: 2019-02-26- We Move Together by
A bold and colourful exploration of all the ways that people navigate through the spaces around them and a celebration of the relationships we build along the way. We Move Together follows a mixed-ability group of kids as they creatively negotiate everyday barriers and find joy and connection in disability culture and community. A perfect tool for families, schools, and libraries to facilitate conversations about disability, accessibility, social justice and community building. Includes a kid-friendly glossary (for ages 6-9).
ISBN: 9781849354042Publication Date: 2021-04-06
Anti-Racism: Teaching Through Books: K-3
Anti-racism is the practice of actively identifying and opposing racism by challenging the systems, structures, policies, and practices that uphold the power of some and systematically deny it from others.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
3 books, 1 duotang,
French Toast by
"Simply told and cleverly imagined, French Toast is a great starting point for talking to young children about race, diversity, and respect."--Quill and Quire ★ Starred Review Phoebe--half Jamaican, half French-Canadian--hates her school nickname of "French Toast." So she is mortified when, out on a walk with her Jamaican grandmother, she hears a classmate shout it out at her. To make things worse, Nan-Ma, who is blind, wants an explanation of the name. How can Phoebe describe the color of her skin to someone who has never seen it? "Like tea, after you've added the milk," she says. And her father? "Like warm banana bread." And Nan-Ma herself? She is like maple syrup poured over...well... In French Toast, Kari-Lynn Winters uses favorite foods from both of Phoebe's cultures to celebrate the varied skin tones of her family. François Thisdale's imaginative illustrations fill the landscape with whimsy and mouthwatering delight as Phoebe realizes her own resilience and takes ownership of her nickname proudly.
ISBN: 9781772782943Publication Date: 2023-10-17
The Proudest Blue by
THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A powerful, vibrantly illustrated story about the first day of school--and two sisters on one's first day of hijab--by Olympic medalist and social justice activist Ibtihaj Muhammad. And don't miss The Kindest Red, a story of hijab and friendship, available for preorder now! With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It's the start of a brand new year and, best of all, it's her older sister Asiya's first day of hijab--a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong. Paired with Hatem Aly's beautiful, whimsical art, Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and Morris Award finalist S.K. Ali bring readers an uplifting, universal story of new experiences, the unbreakable bond between siblings, and of being proud of who you are.
ISBN: 9780316519007Publication Date: 2019-09-10
Tickled Pink by
Inclusion, self-esteem, and the value of true friendship are celebrated in the charismatic art of Lucile Danis Drouot and blithe text of award-winning author Andrée Poulin. Filippo can't help that he's pink. He's a flamingo, after all. But Zac the zebra and Poncho the panda aren't having it. They only want to play with fellow black-and-white animals. Filippo is sure he'll never be content without Zac and Poncho's friendship. But what would the world be without pink? There would be no roses, no sunsets, no strawberry ice cream. With a little love and encouragement along the way, Filippo sets out to find the value of pink--and of himself. With Tickled Pink, award-winning author Andrée Poulin delivers a fun, heartwarming tale about finding the confidence to be yourself. Illustrator Lucile Danis Drouot highlights Filippo as the only spot of color in a black and white world, gradually making the journey more vibrant as the little flamingo's confidence--and the reader's--begins to soar.
ISBN: 9781772781045Publication Date: 2020-02-18
Indigenous Voices: Teaching Through Books: K-3
Exploring, sharing, and discussing stories about the lives, joys, and experiences of Indigenous peoples is important as it relates to the land we now call Canada and our moral imperative to move forward with the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. As readers connect with stories by Indigenous storytellers, they are also working to connect to the land on which they live, work, and play.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
4 books, 1 duotang.
A Day with Yayah by
Set in the Okanagon, BC, a First Nations family goes on an outing to forage for herbs and mushrooms. Grandmother passes down her knowledge of plant life to her young grandchildren.
ISBN: 9781926890098Publication Date: 2017-10-03
On the Trapline by
A picture book celebrating Indigenous culture and traditions. The Governor General Award--winning team behind When We Were Alone shares a story that honors our connections to our past and our grandfathers and fathers. A boy and Moshom, his grandpa, take a trip together to visit a place of great meaning to Moshom. A trapline is where people hunt and live off the land, and it was where Moshom grew up. As they embark on their northern journey, the child repeatedly asks his grandfather, "Is this your trapline?" Along the way, the boy finds himself imagining what life was like two generations ago -- a life that appears to be both different from and similar to his life now. This is a heartfelt story about memory, imagination and intergenerational connection that perfectly captures the experience of a young child's wonder as he is introduced to places and stories that hold meaning for his family.
ISBN: 9780735266681Publication Date: 2021-05-04
Thunder and the Noise Storms by
A Nov/Dec Loan Stars Jr Top Ten Pick 2021! A Blue Spruce Award nominee 2021! When the world gets too loud and chaotic, a young boy's grandfather helps him listen with wonder instead. Kids laughing, sneakers squeaking, balls bouncing--for Thunder, the sounds of the school day often brew into overwhelming noise storms. But when Thunder's mosom asks him what he hears on an urban nature walk, Thunder starts to understand how sounds like bird wings flapping and rushing water can help him feel calm and connected. Gentle, inviting illustrations by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley emphasize Mosom's lessons about the healing power of the world around us.
ISBN: 9781773215587Publication Date: 2021-11-30
A Walk on the Tundra by
During the short Arctic summers, the tundra, covered most of the year under snow and ice, becomes filled with colourful flowers, mosses, shrubs, and lichens. These hardy little plants transform the northern landscape, as they take advantage of the warmer weather and long hours of sunlight. Caribou, lemmings, snow buntings, and many other wildlife species depend on tundra plants for food and nutrition, but they are not the only ones... A Walk on the Tundra follows Inuujaq, a little girl who travels with her grandmother onto the tundra. There, Inuujaq learns that these tough little plants are much more important to Inuit than she originally believed. In addition to an informative storyline that teaches the importance of Arctic plants, this book includes a field guide with photographs and scientific information about a wide array of plants found throughout the Arctic.
ISBN: 9781926569253Publication Date: 2011-06-26
Intersectionality: Teaching Through Books: K-3
Intersectionality describes a conceptual understanding that various aspects of a person’s identity can create internal and external tensions, resulting in positions of advantage or disadvantage.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
6 books, 1 duotang.
The Barnabus Project by
In a world built for Perfect Pets, Barnabus is a Failed Project, half mouse, half elephant, kept out of sight until his dreams of freedom lead him and his misfit friends on a perilous adventure. A stunning picture book from international bestsellers The Fan Brothers, joined by their brother Devin Fan. Deep underground beneath Perfect Pets, where children can buy genetically engineered "perfect" creatures, there is a secret lab. Barnabus and his friends live in this lab, but none of them is perfect. They are all Failed Projects. Barnabus has never been outside his tiny bell jar, yet he dreams of one day seeing the world above ground that his pal Pip the cockroach has told him about: a world with green hills and trees, and buildings that reach all the way to the sky, lit with their own stars. But Barnabus may have to reach the outside world sooner than he thought, because the Green Rubber Suits are about to recycle all Failed Projects . . . and Barnabus doesn't want to be made into a fluffier pet with bigger eyes. He just wants to be himself. So he decides it's time for him and the others to escape. With his little trunk and a lot of cooperation and courage, Barnabus sets out to find freedom -- and a place where he and his friends can finally be accepted for who they are. This suspenseful, poignant and magical story about following your dreams and finding where you truly belong will draw readers into a surreal, lushly detailed world in which perfection really means being true to yourself and your friends.
ISBN: 9780735263260Publication Date: 2020-09-01
Beautiful You, Beautiful Me by
A child who looks different from her mother finds beauty and belonging in this new book from the creator of the New York Timesbestseller I Sang You Down from the Stars Izzy's favorite place to be is in Mama's arms--skin to skin, safe and warm. One night, cuddled up on Mama's lap, Izzy notices something she's never noticed before: her skin is the color of chocolate, but Mama's skin is the color of sand. When Izzy realizes she's different from Mama in other ways, too, she feels sad and confused. She wants to be beautiful like Mama! But Mama addresses Izzy's disappointment with a gentle, loving refrain: You're part of me, and I'm part of you. I'm beautiful like me, and you're beautiful like you.Finding lessons from nature and repeating her affirming message, Mama encourages Izzy to see her own unique beauty. This story about a multiracial child navigating identity and belonging draws from author Tasha Spillett-Sumner's own experience growing up as an Afro-Indigenous girl. Lyrical text and warm, lively illustrations show Izzy's journey as she learns to celebrate the differences that make her uniquely beautiful, and the connection to her mother that transcends physical traits.
ISBN: 9781771474528Publication Date: 2022-10-15- A Day with Yayah by
Set in the Okanagon, BC, a First Nations family goes on an outing to forage for herbs and mushrooms. Grandmother passes down her knowledge of plant life to her young grandchildren.
ISBN: 9781926890098Publication Date: 2017-10-03
A Family Is a Family Is a Family by
When a teacher asks her class to think about what makes their families special, the answers are all different, but the same in one important way ... When a teacher asks the children in her class to think about what makes their families special, the answers are all different in many ways -- but the same in the one way that matters most of all. One child is worried that her family is just too different to explain, but listens as her classmates talk about what makes their families special. One is raised by a grandmother, and another has two dads. One has many stepsiblings, and another has a new baby in the family. As her classmates describe who they live with and who loves them -- family of every shape, size and every kind of relation -- the child realizes that as long as her family is full of caring people, it is special. A warm and whimsical look at many types of families, written by award-winning author Sara O'Leary, with quirky and sweet illustrations by Qin Leng. Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.1 With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.2 Retell stories, including key details, and demonstrate understanding of their central message or lesson. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.6 Identify who is telling the story at various points in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.9 Compare and contrast the adventures and experiences of characters in stories. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.6 Acknowledge differences in the points of view of characters, including by speaking in a different voice for each character when reading dialogue aloud.
ISBN: 9781554987948Publication Date: 2016-09-01
A Kid Is a Kid Is a Kid by
In this companion to the enormously popular A Family Is a Family Is a Family, a group of kids share the silly questions they always hear, as well as the questions they would rather be asked about themselves. Being the new kid is hard, a child in the school playground tells us. I can think of better things to ask than if I'm a boy or a girl. Another child comes along and says she gets asked why she always has her nose in a book. Someone else gets asked where they come from. One after another, children share the questions they're tired of being asked again and again -- as opposed to what they believe are the most important or interesting things about themselves. As they move around the playground, picking up new friends along the way, there is a feeling of understanding and acceptance among them. And in the end, the new kid comes up with the question they would definitely all like to hear: "Hey kid, want to play?" Sara O'Leary's thoughtful text and Qin Leng's expressive illustrations tell a story about children who are all different, all themselves, all just kids. Key Text Features dialogue Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.6 Identify who is telling the story at various points in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.7 Use illustrations and details in a story to describe its characters, setting, or events. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.1 Ask and answer such questions as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.6 Acknowledge differences in the points of view of characters, including by speaking in a different voice for each character when reading dialogue aloud. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.7 Use information gained from the illustrations and words in a print or digital text to demonstrate understanding of its characters, setting, or plot. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.3.1 Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.3.7 Explain how specific aspects of a text's illustrations contribute to what is conveyed by the words in a story (e.g., create mood, emphasize aspects of a character or setting)
ISBN: 9781773062501Publication Date: 2021-08-03- The Proudest Blue by
A powerful, vibrantly illustrated story about the first day of school--and two sisters on one's first day of hijab--by Olympic medalist and social justice activist Ibtihaj Muhammad. And don't miss The Kindest Red, a story of hijab and friendship, available for preorder now! With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It's the start of a brand new year and, best of all, it's her older sister Asiya's first day of hijab--a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong. Paired with Hatem Aly's beautiful, whimsical art, Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and Morris Award finalist S.K. Ali bring readers an uplifting, universal story of new experiences, the unbreakable bond between siblings, and of being proud of who you are.
ISBN: 9780316519007Publication Date: 2019-09-10
Islamophobia: Teaching Through Books: K-3
Islamophobia is a growing issue in Canada and other countries, resulting in hurt and harm to members of the Muslim community. Learning about Islam and Muslim culture can help break down stigma and stereotyping against Muslim people and stop anti-Muslim hate.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
5 books, 1 duotang.
In My Mosque by
Don't miss out on this beautiful celebration of Islam and mosques as spaces for spiritual gathering! Step in and discover all the rituals and wonder of the mosque in this lyrical debut picture book from M. O Yuksel, with gorgeous artwork from New York Times bestselling illustrator Hatem Aly. A great conversation starter in the home or classroom, this book is perfect for fans of All Are Welcome and The Proudest Blue. No matter who you are or where you're from, everyone is welcome here. From grandmothers reading lines of the Qur'an and the imam telling stories of living as one, to meeting new friends and learning to help others, mosques are centers for friendship, community, and love. M. O. Yuksel's beautiful text celebrates the joys and traditions found in every mosque around the world and is brought to life with stunning artwork by New York Times bestselling illustrator Hatem Aly (Yasmin series, The Proudest Blue, The Inquisitor's Tale). The book also includes backmatter with an author's note, a glossary, and more information about many historical and significant mosques around the world. "This personable, sensory love letter to a range of children's mosque experiences will engage new learners and resonate with those already familiar." --Publishers Weekly (starred review) "This marvelous, welcoming book on mosques, Muslims, and Islam is a must, offering foundational knowledge on the world's second largest religion." --School Library Journal (starred review) "Young readers are welcomed to a mosque brimming with faithful family, friends, and community. Both text and art convey some tenets of Islam and emphasize the mosque's role as a place for faith and celebration." --Horn Book "Joyful characters describe what happens in simple, poetic language. Both a celebration of and an introduction to the mosque." --Kirkus "Joyful celebration of mosques around the world. Themes of family and friendship prevail, along with references to spirituality." --Providence Journal A School Library Journal Best Book of 2021 · A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2021 · An ALA 2022 Notable Children's Book · A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection · Society of Illustrators Original Art Show Selection · A New York Public Library 2021 Summer Recommendation Reading List Pick · A 2021 Nerdy Book Club Award Winner for Best Nonfiction Picture Book · A 2022 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List title · An Ontario Library Association Best Bets Top Ten List · A Wisconsin State Reading Association 2022 Picture This Recommendation · A CCBC 2022 Best Choice of the Year · Winner of the 2021 Undies Award for Fanciest Case Cover · A 2022 Notable Book for a Global Society · Also Featured on: USA Today, PBS.org, Bookriot, Chicago Parents, The Horn Book!
ISBN: 9780062978707Publication Date: 2021-03-23
Journey of the Midnight Sun by
This is the true story of the journey of the Midnight Sun Mosque. In 2010 a Winnipeg-based charity raised funds to build and ship a mosque to Inuvik, one of the most northern towns in Canada's Arctic. A small but growing Muslim community there had been using a cramped trailer for their services, but there just wasn't enough space. The mosque travelled over 4,000 kilometers on a journey fraught with poor weather, incomplete bridges, narrow roads, low traffic wires and a deadline to get on the last barge heading up the Mackenzie River before the first winter freeze. But it made it just in time and is now one of the most northern mosques in the world. This beautiful picture book reminds us that the collective dream of fostering a multicultural and tolerant Canada exists and that people of all backgrounds will come together to build bridges and overcome obstacles for the greater good of their neighbors.
ISBN: 9781459827608Publication Date: 2022-03-15
The Kindest Red by
The sequel to the acclaimed New York Times bestseller The Proudest Blue shows the power of friendship and kindness, from Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad. It's picture day and Faizah can't wait to wear her special red dress with matching hair ribbons, passed down from her mother and sister. Faizah's teacher starts the day by asking her students to envision the kind of world they want, inspiring Faizah and her friends to spend the day helping one another in ways large and small. But when it's time for sibling pictures, Faizah realizes that she and her older sister, Asiya, don't match like her classmates do with their siblings. With help from her classmates inspired by Asiya's hijab, Faizah finds that acts of kindness can come back to you in unexpected ways. From Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and fellow bestselling, award-winning creators S.K. Ali and Hatem Aly comes a heartfelt exploration of friendship, faith, and the joy of spreading kindness wherever you go.
ISBN: 9780759555709Publication Date: 2023-01-10
The Most Exciting Eid by
Discover the true meaning of Eid in this beautifully illustrated picture book with a heartwarming message about sharing.
There’s just one more sleep before Eid-al-Fitr, and Safa is so excited! She loves drawing henna patterns on her hands, decorating her home and munching on biryani, kebabs and samosas. She is having the best day ever until she opens her present: a shiny pink bicycle that she absolutely doesn’t want to share with her cousin, Alissa.
As her mom takes her on an adventure to gift delicious Eid treats to all their neighbours, Safa realizes how wonderful it is to make others happy . . . and wants to make it up to Alissa.
After all, what makes Eid exciting is sharing special moments with the people we love.
ISBN: 9781443197229Publication Date: 2023-03-07
My Hijab & Me by
My Hijab and Me is a story that celebrates the beauty and meaning of the hijab. The story conveys a message of self-empowerment, faith and pride.
ISBN: 9781777115180Publication Date: 2023-02-01
Mental Health: Teaching Through Books: K-3
Stigma around mental health continues to prevent those who are trying to cope from getting the help that they need. In addition, there are many barriers to accessing services that deal with mental health issues. Identifying mental health issues and having knowledge of resources and supports can help address this serious and growing problem among young people today.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
3 books, 1 duotang.
Days Like This by
Author Oriane Smith and illustrator Alice Gravier celebrate the wonder that can be found in even the most seemingly ordinary days in this inspiring picture book. An average day can be just that: average. But it can also be extraordinary and full of surprises, if we're mindful of the world around us. In Days Like This, we witness the peaks and valleys of everyday life through two different narrative voices. The tiniest detail or the most fleeting moment can look quite different, depending on your perspective! "With its thoughtful tone and call-and-response text, Days Like This will be a good summertime fit for families whose 5-to-9-year-olds want to practice their reading." --Wall Street Journal
ISBN: 9781990252099Publication Date: 2022-06-21- Everybody! by
An exploration of empathy and unity – featuring Elise Gravel’s signature quirky monsters!
Everybody is unique and different. But we are all more similar than we think. Just like you:
Everybody has fears.
Everybody has moments of joy . . . and moments of sadness.
Everybody makes mistakes . . . and can fix them.
And, just like you, everybody needs to feel safe and valued.
From beloved children’s author Elise Gravel comes a reassuring picture book, perfect for trying times.
ISBN: 9781443191678Publication Date: 2021-10-05
You Can Be by
There are many ways to be a kid... Active and entertaining characters drawn in the author Elise Gravel's signature style will elicit giggles from kids and adults alike as they highlight all the weird and wonderful ways to be a kid. Short and sweet, You Can Be is a gentle reminder to embrace diversity in yourself and others, to be kind, and above all, to be YOURSELF.
ISBN: 9781943147403Publication Date: 2018-10-09
Poverty: Teaching Through Books: K-3
Poverty refers to a lack of money to acquire basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. It is something that affects many families in Canada. Poverty can create cyclical inequities in all aspects of life, including health care, education, where you live, and how you feel about yourself.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
2 books, 1 duotang.
The Library Bus by
The Middle East Book Award winner and Governor General'sLiterary Award finalist inspired by Kabul, Afghanistan's first library bus isnow in paperback! It is stilldark in Kabul, Afghanistan when the library bus rumbles out of the city. Thereare no bus seats--instead there are chairs and tables and shelves of books. Andthere are no passengers--instead there is Pari, who is nervously starting herfirst day as Mama's library helper. Pari stands tall to hand out notebooks andpencils at the villages and the refugee camp, but she feels intimidated. Thegirls they visit are learning to write English from Mama. Pari can't even reador write in Farsi yet. But next year she will go to school and learn all thereis to know. And she is so lucky. Not long ago, Mama tells her, girls were notallowed to read at all. Author BahramRahman grew up in Afghanistan during years of civil war and the restrictiveTaliban regime of 1996-2001. He wrote The Library Bus to tell newgenerations about the struggles of women who, like his own sisters,were forbidden to learn. Brought to life by the pensive and captivating art ofaward-winning illustrator Gabrielle Grimard, The Library Bus is acelebration of literacy, ingenuity, and the strength of women and girlsdemanding a future for themselves. Don't miss A Sky-Blue Bench, also by Bahram Rahman ALA Schneider Family Book Award Honor Winner "A timely, eye-opening portrait of resilience, community, andhope."--Kirkus Reviews ★ Starred Review
ISBN: 9781772782653Publication Date: 2022-10-11
The One with the Scraggly Beard by
A child tries to understand the life of a man he has seen sleeping under a bridge. The boy's mother patiently answers his questions and explains how people's life paths can be so different. The child observes the things he has in common with the man and wonders where his own path will lead. The One With the Scraggly Beardis defined by a simple narrative in which a child's curiosity and perceptiveness act as catalysts for understanding fear, suffering and resilience while exploring themes of homelessness, belonging and compassion. This unique book will speak to children and adults alike. A note from the author explains how the origin of this story is rooted in her own life. Orca Book Publishers is pleased to offer The One with the Scraggly Beardin two accessible editions. The audiobook features alternate text descriptions of images, including the cover. The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
ISBN: 9781459818552Publication Date: 2020-10-13
Ableism: Teaching Through Books: 4-8
Ableism refers to the attitude and underlying social prejudice of assuming that all individuals can, or should, be able to do things in the same way. Ableism undermines and harms people living with diverse abilities and disabilities, and impacts society as a whole by continuing harmful stereotypes and overgeneralizations that devalue and perpetuate discrimination.
Suitability: Grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
3 books, 1 duotang.
Butt Sandwich and Tree by
From New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Wesley King comes a tender and grounded middle grade mystery about brothers, basketball, and a young boy on the autism spectrum. Eleven-year-old Green loves his devoted older brother, Cedar, a popular basketball star, but that doesn't mean he wants to follow in his footsteps. He doesn't really care about sports or making friends. Still, eventually Green caves to pressure to try out for the basketball team. He may be tall like Cedar, but he's nowhere near as skilled. And when a confrontation with the coach spurs Green to flee the court, his flight coincides with a priceless necklace going missing--making him the number one suspect. To clear Green's name, the two brothers team up to find the necklace, and along the way, they learn to appreciate their differences...and the things that bring them together.
ISBN: 9781665902618Publication Date: 2022-08-23
The Disability Experience by
People with disabilities (PWDs) have the same aspirations for their lives as you do for yours. The difference is that PWDs don't have the same access to education, employment, housing, transportation and healthcare in order to achieve their goals. In The Disability Experienceyou'll meet people with different kinds of disabilities, and you'll begin to understand the ways PWDs have been ignored, reviled and marginalized throughout history. The book also celebrates the triumphs and achievements of PWDs and shares the powerful stories of those who have fought for change.
ISBN: 9781459819283Publication Date: 2021-04-13
Slug Days by
Lauren, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (an umbrella term that has included Asperger Syndrome since 2013), navigates the ups and downs of school and home life. School friendships have always been a challenge, but Lauren finds she is exactly the friend a brand new classmate needs On slug days Lauren feels slow and slimy. She feels like everyone yells at her, and that she has no friends. Today there is a different bus driver; Dan and Sachi are sitting in Lauren's seat on the bus; and Lauren's teacher interrupts her reading time. It is definitely a slug day. But not every day is like this. On butterfly days Lauren makes her classmates laugh, or goes to get ice cream, or works on a special project with Mom. Lauren has Autism Spectrum Disorder (an umbrella term that has included Asperger Syndrome since 2013), and she sees the world differently from many people. Sometimes this can be frustrating and makes Lauren want to flip her lid, especially at school where she learns differently from her classmates. But with support and stubbornness and a flair that's all her own, Lauren masters tricks to stay calm, to understand others' feelings, and to let her personality shine. She even manages to find common ground with her sticky, slobbery baby sister. Best of all, it is being different that gives Lauren insight into the insecurities of the new student, Irma. Award-winning author Sara Leach writes Lauren's endearing story with empathy and humor, and sends her flying off like a butterfly into a new chapter of life with a new friend.
ISBN: 9781772780222Publication Date: 2017-10-27
Allyship: Teaching Through Books: 4-8
In learning about ideas of allyship, students are able to connect to their own identity and the identities of others. Reading and exploring texts that focus on the lived experiences of a broader global community can help students to better understand their learning community, and by focusing on the theme of allyship, we can work to intentionally build a more inclusive society.
Suitability: Grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
5 books, 1 duotang.
The Disappearing Boy by
Thirteen-year-old Neil MacLeod feels like a fish out of water. He's trying to adjust to his new life in Ottawa, but it's half a continent away from his friends in Vancouver, not to mention a whole lot colder. Even worse, his mother still refuses to tell him the truth about the father he's never met. After being forced into an awkward visit with a grandmother he never knew existed, Neil stumbles across a clue to his father's identity, and beins to unravel the mystery with some help from his new friend Courtenay. When he uncovers a shocking secret, and the truth about his unconventional family sinks in, Neil decides to run away, all the way to his grandfather's horse farm in New Brunswick. A sensitive and moving story about growing up, The Disappearing Boy teaches us that every family is different, and love is never as simple as it seems on the surface.
ISBN: 9781771085489Publication Date: 2017-09-20
The Fabulous Zed Watson! by
FINALIST FOR THE GOVERNOR GENERAL'S LITERARY AWARD FINALIST FOR THE OLA SILVER BIRCH AWARD The literary scavenger hunt of a lifetime, starring an endlessly endearing non-binary tween Zed Watson loves a few things: their name (which they chose themself!), their big rambunctious family, and--oh yeah--monsters. When Zed discovered the mystery surrounding an unpublished novel called The Monster's Castle, they were completely hooked. Now Zed is a member of a small but dedicated legion devoted to finding the long-buried text. When a breakthrough discovery leads Zed to the route that they are sure will take them to the treasure, they know it's time for a road trip. And with the help of their shy, flora-loving neighbour, Gabe, and his sister, Sam, a geologist who is driving back to college in Arizona, Zed and company are soon off on a wild adventure following cryptic clues. But it's not all fun and games. Gabe doesn't like Zed's snacks, Sam is a bossy driver with total command of the ancient Impreza's stereo, and Zed is often misgendered. It's a good thing they also encounter kind strangers, potato-themed dance-offs and lots and lots of ice cream along the way. If Zed and Gabe can combine their strengths, survive Sam's wrath and best the greedy historian who's also hot on the book's trail, they just might find the greatest treasure of all. Co-authored by child-parent duo Basil Sylvester and Kevin Sylvester, this is a vibrant and enormous-hearted story about friendship, identity and belonging. It features illustrations by celebrated author and illustrator Kevin Sylvester, and an Own Voices perspective based on Basil's experience.
ISBN: 9781443460910Publication Date: 2021-01-26
Growing up Trans by
What does it mean to be young and transgender today? Growing Up Trans shares stories, essays, art and poetry created by trans youth aged 11 to 18. In their own words, the works illustrate the trans experience through childhood, family and daily life, school, their bodies and mental health. Together the collection is a story of the challenges, big and small, of being a young trans person. At the same time, it's a toolkit for all young people, transgender or not, about what understanding, acceptance and support for the trans community looks like. In addition to the contributed works, there are questions and tips from experts in the field of transgender studies to challenge the reader on how to be a trans ally. Growing Up Transcame out of a series of workshops held in Victoria, British Columbia, to bring together trans youth from across the country with mentors in the community.
ISBN: 9781459831377Publication Date: 2021-08-17
The Name I Call Myself by
Meet Ari, a young person who doesn't like to be called by their birth name Edward. Throughout this beautiful and engaging picture book, we watch Ari grow up before our very eyes as they navigate the ins and outs of their gender identity; we see how they prefer dolls and princess movies, and want to grow their hair, though their father insists on cutting it short, Who will Ari become? Moving from age six to adolescence, The Name I Call Myself depicts Edward's tender, solitary gender journey to Ari: a new life distinguished and made meaningful by self-acceptance and unconditional love.
ISBN: 9781551528090Publication Date: 2020-10-13
Pride by
"An indispensable and celebratory primer on the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights. An excellent resource that is as thorough as it is visually appealing." --School Library Journal, starred review Like the original version, this new edition of Pride: The Celebration and the Strugglecelebrates the LGBTQ+ community's diversity and the incredible victories of the past 50 years--but it also has a larger focus on activism, the need to keep fighting for equality and freedom around the world and the important role that young people are playing. The new edition has been updatedand expandedto include many new Proud Moments and Queer Facts as well as a profile of LGBTQ+ refugees from Indonesia, a story about a Pride celebration in a refugee camp in Kenya and profiles of young activists, including teens from a Gender and Sexuality Alliance organizing Pride in Inuvik and a trans girl from Vancouver fighting for inclusion and support in schools. There is also a section on being an ally, a profile of a family with two gay dads (one of them trans) and much, much more! Praise for the first edition, Pride: Celebrating Diversity & Community "LGBTQ culture and rights are covered through the prism of Pride in this timely work...This attractive work will be welcomed by readers searching for guidance and hope."--Kirkus Reviews "Informative...Positively festive in its attitudes and outlook, this book more than lives up to the word celebrating in its subtitle."--Booklist "Upbeat and matter-of-fact...These stories, sad and happy, are where vulnerable preteen kids may see themselves."--Quill & Quire "An excellent and necessary addition for all collections."--School Library Journal
ISBN: 9781459821248Publication Date: 2020-03-24
Anti-Racism: Teaching Through Books: 4-8
Anti-racism is the practice of actively identifying and opposing racism by challenging the systems, structures, policies, and practices that uphold the power of some and systematically deny it from others.
Suitability: Grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
5 books, 1 duotang.
My Name Is Seepeetza by
An honest look at life in an Indian residential school in the 1950s, and how one indomitable young spirit survived it -- 30th anniversary edition. Seepeetza loves living on Joyaska Ranch with her family. But when she is six years old, she is driven to the town of Kalamak, in the interior of British Columbia. Seepeetza will spend the next several years of her life at an Indian residential school. The nuns call her Martha and cut her hair. Worst of all, she is forbidden to "talk Indian," even with her sisters and cousins. Still, Seepeetza looks for bright spots -- the cookie she receives at Halloween, the dance practices. Most of all, there are her memories of holidays back at the ranch -- camping trips, horseback riding, picking berries and cleaning fish with her mother, aunt and grandmother. Always, thoughts of home make school life bearable. Based on her own experiences at the Kamloops Indian Residential School, this powerful novel by Nlaka'pamux author Shirley Sterling is a moving account of one of the most blatant expressions of racism in the history of Canada.
ISBN: 9781773068565Publication Date: 2022-09-06
The Orange Shirt Story by
This is the true story of Phyllis and her orange shirt. It is also the true story of Orange Shirt Day (an important day of remembrance for First Nations and non-First Nations peoples). When Phyllis Webstad (nee Jack) turned six, she went to the residential school for the first time. On her first day at school, she wore a shiny orange shirt that her Granny had bought for her, but when she got to the school, it was taken away from her and never returned. Medicine Wheel Publishing is committed to sharing diverse voices and perspectives, creating a platform for stories that celebrate Indigenous cultures and inspire understanding and respect among readers of all ages.
ISBN: 9780993869495Publication Date: 2018-09-01
Phyllis's Orange Shirt by
Phyllis's Orange Shirt is an adaptaion of The Orange Shirt Story which was the best selling children's book in Canada for several weeks in September 2018(Book manager). This true story also inspired the movement of Orange Shirt Day which could become a federal statuatory holiday.When Phyllis was a little girl she was excited to go to residential school for the first time. Her Granny bought her a bright orange shirt that she loved and she wore it to school for her first day. When she arrived at school her bright orange shirt was taken away. This is both Phyllis Webstad's true story and the story behind Orange Shirt Day which is a day for us all to reflect upon the treatment of First Nations people and the message that 'Every Child Matters'. Adapted for ages 4-6.
ISBN: 9781989122242Publication Date: 2019-09-01
These Are My Words: The Residential School Diary of Violet Pesheens by
Acclaimed author Ruby Slipperjack delivers a haunting novel about a 12-year-old girl’s experience at a residential school in 1966. Violet Pesheens is struggling to adjust to her new life at residential school. She misses her Grandma; she has run-ins with Cree girls; at her “white” school, everyone just stares; and everything she brought has been taken from her, including her name—she is now just a number. But worst of all, she has a fear. A fear of forgetting the things she treasures most: her Anishnabe language; the names of those she knew before; and her traditional customs. A fear of forgetting who she was. Her notebook is the one place she can record all of her worries, and heartbreaks, and memories. And maybe, just maybe there will be hope at the end of the tunnel. Drawing from her own experiences at residential school, Ruby Slipperjack creates a brave, yet heartbreaking heroine in Violet, and lets young readers glimpse into an all-too important chapter in our nation’s history.
ISBN: 9781443133180Publication Date: 2016-08-30
The Witness Blanket by
For more than 150 years, thousands of Indigenous children were taken from their families and sent to residential schools across Canada. Artist Carey Newman created the Witness Blanket to make sure that history is never forgotten. The Blanket is a living work of art--a collection of hundreds of objects from those schools. It includes everything from photos, bricks, hockey skates, graduation certificates, dolls and piano keys to braids of hair. Behind every piece is a story. And behind every story is a residential school Survivor, including Carey's father. This book is a collection of truths about what happened at those schools, but it's also a beacon of hope and a step on the journey toward reconciliation. The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
ISBN: 9781459836129Publication Date: 2022-04-19
Indigenous Voices: Teaching Through Books: 4-8
Exploring, sharing, and discussing stories about the lives, joys, and experiences of Indigenous peoples is important as it relates to the land we now call Canada and our moral imperative to move forward with the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. As readers connect with stories by Indigenous storytellers, they are also working to connect to the land on which they live, work, and play.
Suitability: Grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
4 books, 1 duotang.
Fishing with Grandma by
Fishing with Grandma is the 2016 release from Inhabit Media written by Inuk author Susan Avingaq with Maren Vsetula. This fun and engaging story is lighthearted and informative as two children plan on a day of fishing with their grandmother. The children visit their Anaanatsiaq (grandmother) one October day and find her sitting on the floor sewing a piece of sealskin and listening to fiddle music playing on the radio. The children ask grandma to take them on an adventure which turns out to be jigging for fish out on the lake. Grandma is ready to help the boy and girl learn for about jigging. Grandma advises the children on the kind of clothing to wear and helps the pair pack the ATV. Off they go for a trip to the lake. Here grandma shows the children how to test the ice for safety and set up holes in the ice and how to use the jigging rod. The children learn patience as they lie quietly on the ice holding the line waiting for Arctic Char to take a bite. At the end of the day grandma and the children have caught many fish. They return home for a special feast but first deliver fish to elders who could no longer go out on the land. The children thank their grandma for such a wonderful day where they learned so much about jigging. The story ends as the children look forward to their next adventure. The end pages show the tools involved in jigging and the next page provides a glossary of Inuit terms and pronunciation guide. This picture book benefits from the fun illustrations created by Charlene Chua.
ISBN: 9781772270846Publication Date: 2016-04-05
How I Survived by
After his snowmobile breaks down halfway across the sea ice on a trip back from a fishing camp, Serapio Ittusardjuat recounts the traditional skills and knowledge he leaned on to stay alive. This harrowing first-person account of four nights spent on the open sea ice--with few supplies and no water--shows young readers the determination and strength necessary to survive in the harsh Arctic climate, even when the worst occurs.
ISBN: 9781772272727Publication Date: 2020-06-02
Inuunira: My Story of Survival by
Kirkus Best Teen & YA Nonfiction of 2022 "An unforgettable physical and emotional journey." --★ Kirkus, STARRED review In this harrowing survival story, Brian Koonoo takes off on a hunting trip in Canada's Arctic. After his snowmobile breaks down, his GPS loses signal, and his camping fuel runs low, he is left alone to survive for seven days. Inuunira is an Inuktitut term that means "how I'm alive," and this account shows exactly how Brian managed to stay alive. He experiences close encounters with planes, blizzards, and hunger, all while much of his gear is lost. Walking 60 kilometres in search of safety, he uses the knowledge his father and Elders taught him--modern and traditional means of navigation, finding water, making shelters, and keeping his spirits up--to continue on. With photos, illustrations, and diagrams throughout, readers are sure to be inspired by this story of strong will and hope.
ISBN: 9781772274301Publication Date: 2022-10-18
This Is What I've Been Told by
It's been said when teachings are passed down from one generation to the next, good things can happen. Language is learned, knowledge is shared and culture is practiced. In this story of language preservation, Author/Illustrator and Anishnaabemowin language teacher Juliana Armstrong illuminates a number of Anishnaabemowin words along with their cultural connections, passed down from her Ojibway ancestors. Knowing our culture means knowing who we are. When we know who we are, we can walk in a good way.
ISBN: 9781989122693Publication Date: 2021-05-15
Intersectionality: Teaching Through Books: 4-8
Intersectionality describes a conceptual understanding that various aspects of a person’s identity can create internal and external tensions, resulting in positions of advantage or disadvantage.
Suitability: Grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
7 books, 1 duotang.
Borders by
A stunning graphic-novel adaptation based on the work of one of Canada’s most revered and bestselling authors
On a trip to visit his older sister, who has moved away from the family home on the reserve to Salt Lake City, a young boy and his mother are posed a simple question with a not-so-simple answer. Are you Canadian, the border guards ask, or American?
“Blackfoot.”
And when border guards will not accept their citizenship, mother and son wind up trapped in an all-too-real limbo between nations that do not recognize who they are.
A powerful graphic-novel adaptation of one of Thomas King’s most celebrated short stories, Borders explores themes of identity and belonging, and is a poignant depiction of the significance of a nation’s physical borders from an Indigenous perspective. This timeless story is brought to vibrant, piercing life by the singular vision of artist Natasha Donovan.
ISBN: 9781443460675Publication Date: 2021-09-07
Call Me Bill by
A gorgeously illustrated historical graphic novel based on a real person who, defying gender expectations, left home in search of adventure and a more authentic life. It was April 1, 1873. In the middle of the night, Sarah Jane spotted flares off the coast of her island home. She woke her father, who quickly gathered their neighbours. Over the next several hours, rescuers pulled 429 traumatized survivors out of the wreckage of the SS Atlantic, a White Star Line passenger steamship. But 535 people didn't survive, including Bill, a sailor. However, this story isn't about death, it's about living. Swapping out their dress for a pair of pants, Bill had run away from New Jersey in search of adventure, anonymity, and a place in the world. When they were hired to work on a cargo steamer, everything seemed to fall into place, but it didn't take long for Bill to realize they were really just searching for a place where they could be themselves. Over four years of heavy research, debut graphic novelist Lynette Richards painstakingly gathered details of this story from a range of historic newspapers from all over the world. By taking a creative nonfiction approach to storytelling, Richards was able to speak to the courage that readers will recognize as necessary for self-discovery. In Call Me Bill, Richards shares the remarkable life story of a tenacious adventurer who took huge risks to live an authentic life that others would have had difficulty imagining. Set against the backdrop of the worst maritime disaster before the Titanic, this story is an exploration of identity and radical imagination that echoes across generations.
ISBN: 9781772620788Publication Date: 2022-09-13
King Warrior by
Living in different worlds and separated by an ocean, a father and son try to stay connected through the power of imagination as their distanced lives pull them further apart.
Awale takes a job as a cab driver in Canada's remote city of Yellowknife in order to provide for his family back home in Gaalkaycyo, Somalia. As his wife Warsan and young son Afrah struggle with his absence, Awale creates a world-building epic inspired by the wonders of his new Arctic home, in order to keep his son close to him. Afrah dives deep into this magical world of Jayrikas, and through his imagination, the myths, legends, and diversity of the north are brought to life in such powerful ways that when tragedy strikes and all the worlds start to collide, Afrah is left with only one choice: to become the King Warrior.
A story spanning the globe both imaginary and real, King Warrior celebrates the turbulent glory of boyhood while encouraging the reader to reconnect with that rich inner palace of youthful imagination that ultimately holds the key to our freedom.
ISBN: 9781989754146Publication Date: 2022-09-14
Rabbit Chase by
A BookRiot Don't-Miss 2022 Queer Graphic Novels & Memoirs * "Rabbit Chase is a welcome intersectional work for today's youth."--Traci Sorell, award-winning author of We Are Still Here! and At the Mountain's Base Anishinaabe culture and storytelling meet Alice in Wonderland in this coming-of-age graphic novel that explores Indigenous and gender issues through a fresh yet familiar looking glass. Aimée, a non-binary Anishinaabe middle-schooler, is on a class trip to offer gifts to Paayehnsag, the water spirits known to protect the land. While stories are told about the water spirits and the threat of the land being taken over for development, Aimée zones out, distracting themselves from the bullying and isolation they've experienced since expressing their non-binary identity. When Aimée accidentally wanders off, they are transported to an alternate dimension populated by traditional Anishinaabe figures in a story inspired by Alice in Wonderland. To gain the way back home, Aimée is called on to help Trickster by hunting down dark water spirits with guidance from Paayehnsag. On their journey, Aimée faces off with the land-grabbing Queen and her robotic guards and fights the dark water spirits against increasingly stacked odds. Illustrated by KC Oster with a modern take on their own Ojibwe style and cultural representation, Rabbit Chase is a story of self-discovery, community, and finding one's place in the world. "This Indigenous spin on Alice in Wonderland is a powerful story of identity and the rich gifts of community and culture." --Mary Beth Leatherdale, award-winning author and co-editor of #NotYourPrincess
ISBN: 9781773216195Publication Date: 2022-04-05
Stealing Home by
When a boy struggles after moving to a Japanese internment camp during WWII, baseball shows him another way to approach life. Sandy Saito is a happy boy who reads comic books and is obsessed with baseball -- especially the Asahi team, the pride of his Japanese Canadian community. But when the Japanese attack Pearl Harbor, his life, like that of every other North American of Japanese descent, changes forever. His family is forced to move to a remote internment camp, and his father must spend months away from them. Sandy, his mother and his brother cope as best they can with the difficulties at the camp. Over time, Sandy comes to realize that life is a lot like baseball. It's about dealing with whatever is thrown at you, however you can. And it's about finding your way home. In this emotionally gripping graphic novel, J. Torres has artfully woven a fictional story into a historically accurate, thoroughly researched account of the events surrounding the internment of Japanese Canadians during World War II. Using the approachable graphic novel format, the story of this grave chapter in North American history is gently told with sensitivity and insight, and the theme of baseball runs through the story as a message of hope and renewal. The time and place are evocatively rendered in David Namisato's detailed sepia-toned art. Along with its links to social studies and history lessons, this book offers a perfect lead-in to discussions about differences, inclusion and empathy, and about why this history is relevant today. The book includes extended background information in an afterword by Susan Aihoshi and resources for learning more.
ISBN: 9781525303340Publication Date: 2021-10-05
Swim Team by
"Combines wonderful characters and history to create a story that will make you want to dive right in!" JERRY CRAFT, author of the Newbery Medal-winning New Kid A splashy, contemporary middle grade graphic novel from bestselling comics creator Johnnie Christmas! Bree can't wait for her first day at her new middle school, Enith Brigitha, home to the Mighty Manatees--until she's stuck with the only elective that fits her schedule, the dreaded Swim 101. The thought of swimming makes Bree more than a little queasy, yet she's forced to dive headfirst into one of her greatest fears. Lucky for her, Etta, an elderly occupant of her apartment building and former swim team captain, is willing to help. With Etta's training and a lot of hard work, Bree suddenly finds her swim-crazed community counting on her to turn the school's failing team around. But that's easier said than done, especially when their rival, the prestigious Holyoke Prep, has everything they need to leave the Mighty Manatees in their wake. Can Bree defy the odds and guide her team to a state championship, or have the Manatees swum their last lap--for good? Praise for SWIM TEAM: Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor National Book Award Longlist Kirkus Best Book of the Year Harvey Award Best Children's or Young Adult Book Nominee "A revelation! You'll root for Swim Team--the water is just right." --JOHN JENNINGS, New York Times bestselling and Eisner Award-winning creator "Swim Team is a beautiful story about trying new things. Johnnie Christmas is a fantastic storyteller and artist." --KAZU KIBUISHI, author of Amulet "Full of charm, heart, and pulse-pounding races. A winner!" --GENE LUEN YANG, author of American Born Chinese and Dragon Hoops
ISBN: 9780063056763Publication Date: 2022-05-17
Weird Rules to Follow by
Mia knows her family is very different than her best friend's. In the 1980s, the coastal fishing town of Prince Rupert is booming. There is plenty of sockeye salmon in the nearby ocean, which means the fishermen are happy and there is plenty of work at the cannery. Eleven-year-old Mia and her best friend, Lara, have known each other since kindergarten. Like most tweens, they like to hang out and compare notes on their crushes and dream about their futures. But even though they both live in the same cul-de-sac, Mia's life is very different from her non-Indigenous, middle-class neighbor. Lara lives with her mom, her dad and her little brother in a big house, with two cars in the drive and a view of the ocean. Mia lives in a shabby wartime house that is full of relatives--her churchgoing grandmother, binge-drinking mother and a rotating number of aunts, uncles and cousins. Even though their differences never seemed to matter to the two friends, Mia begins to notice how adults treat her differently, just because she is Indigenous. Teachers, shopkeepers, even Lara's parents--they all seem to have decided who Mia is without getting to know her first.
ISBN: 9781459835580Publication Date: 2022-10-18
Islamophobia: Teaching Through Books: 4-8
Islamophobia is a growing issue in Canada and other countries, resulting in hurt and harm to members of the Muslim community. Learning about Islam and Muslim culture can help break down stigma and stereotyping against Muslim people and stop anti-Muslim hate.
Suitability: Grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
4 books, 1 duotang.
From Far Away by
When Saoussan immigrated with her family from war-torn Lebanon, she was only seven years old. This picture book tells the story of how she had to adjust to her new home in Canada. She describes the frustration of not understanding the teacher when she started school, not knowing how to ask to go to the bathroom, and being terrified of a Hallowe'en skeleton. This is the perfect book to help kids empathize with immigrant children whose experiences are very similar to Saoussan's.
ISBN: 9781554519392Publication Date: 2017-08-08
Mustafa by
Boston Globe, Best 2018 Books for Children TD Canadian Children's Literature Award Finalist Mustafa and his family traveled a long way to reach their new home. Some nights Mustafa dreams about the country he used to live in, and he wakes up not knowing where he is. Then his mother takes him out to the balcony to see the moon -- the same moon as in their old country. In the park, Mustafa sees ants and caterpillars and bees -- they are the same, too. He encounters a "girl-with-a-cat," who says something in a language that he can't understand. He watches an old lady feeding birds and other children playing, but he is always looking in from the outside and he feels that he is invisible. But one day, the girl-with-the-cat beckons to him, and Mustafa begins to become part of his new world. Marie-Louise Gay's remarkable ability to write and illustrate from the perspective of a young child is movingly exhibited in this gentle, thoughtful story about coming to feel at home in a new country. Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.2 Retell stories, including key details, and demonstrate understanding of their central message or lesson. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.4 Identify words and phrases in stories or poems that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.5 Describe the overall structure of a story, including describing how the beginning introduces the story and the ending concludes the action.
ISBN: 9781773061382Publication Date: 2018-08-01
Stormy Seas by
The phenomenon of desperate refugees risking their lives to reach safety is not new. For hundreds of years, people have left behind family, friends, and all they know in hope of a better life. This book presents five true stories about young people who lived through the harrowing experience of setting sail in search of asylum: Ruth and her family board the St. Louis to escape Nazism; Phu sets out alone from war-torn Vietnam; José tries to reach the U.S. from Cuba; Najeeba flees Afghanistan and the Taliban; Mohamed, an orphan, runs from his village on the Ivory Coast. Aimed at middle grade students, Stormy Seas combines a contemporary collage-based design, sidebars, fact boxes, timeline and further reading to produce a book that is ideal for both reading and research. Readers will gain new insights into a situation that has constantly been making the headlines.
ISBN: 9781554518951Publication Date: 2017-04-11
Yara's Spring by
Coming of age against all odds in the midst of the Arab Spring. Growing up in Aleppo, Yara's childhood has long been shadowed by the coming revolution. But when the Arab Spring finally arrives at Yara's doorstep, it is worse than even her Nana imagined: sudden, violent, and deadly. When rescuers dig Yara out from under the rubble that was once her family's home, she emerges to a changed world. Her parents and Nana are gone, and her brother, Saad, can't speak--struck silent by everything he's seen. Now, with her friend Shireen and Shireen's charismatic brother, Ali, Yara must try to find a way to safety. With danger around every corner, Yara is pushed to her limits as she discovers how far she'll go for her loved ones--and for a chance for freedom. Crafted through the focused lens of Jamal Saeed's own experiences in Syria and brought to life with acclaimed author Sharon E. McKay, Yara's Spring is a story of coming of age against all odds and the many kinds of love that bloom even in the face of war. Black-and-white interior drawings by award-winning illustrator Nahid Kazemi lend vivid detail to the novel. *A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
ISBN: 9781773214399Publication Date: 2020-10-13
Mental Health: Teaching Through Books: 4-8
Stigma around mental health continues to prevent those who are trying to cope from getting the help that they need. In addition, there are many barriers to accessing services that deal with mental health issues. Identifying mental health issues and having knowledge of resources and supports can help address this serious and growing problem among young people today.
Suitability: Grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
5 books, 1 duotang.
The Elephant by
A jewel of a middle-grade novel about a resilient little girl who longs for her dad to break free from the elephant of his depression. When Olive's dad drags himself to work in the morning, the elephant goes with him. When he comes home again, so does the elephant. It's always there, heavy and silent, casting a shadow of sadness over him. Olive knows it has been like this since her mother passed away when she was a year old, and she can't stand to see her father burdened anymore. With help from her grandfather and her best friend Arthur, she hatches a plan to rid her family of the elephant once and for all. Before long, she'll learn that while happiness isn't that simple, small things can move mountains--or elephants. Award-winning author-illustrator Peter Carnavas portrays a child's response to her father's depression with naïve wisdom. In defiance of the looming grey presence, The Elephant is an intergenerational story of resilience, family, and hope.
ISBN: 9781772781021Publication Date: 2020-03-17
I Am Peace by
New York Times bestselling author and illustrator! Companion to I Am Love and I Am Human "A gentle, helpful tool for cultivating kid mindfulness." --Kirkus Reviews Discover the power of mindfulness in this companion to New York Times bestsellers I Am Human and I Am Love! Mindfulness means being fully in the present moment. Children can learn how to manage their emotions, make good choices, and balance their busy lives by learning to be mindful, express emotions through speech, find empathy through imagination, and wonder at the beauty of the natural world. "There are times when I worry about what might happen next and what happened before. The thoughts in my head are like rushing water, and I feel like a boat with no anchor . . . being carried away. I give myself a moment. I take a breath." Mindfulness encourages us to pay attention to our experiences (our feelings, sensations in the body, emotions, surroundings) without judgment but with kindness and curiosity. Scientific research has proven that there are many benefits to practicing mindfulness. With so many children suffering from anxiety, there is no better tool than learning to be mindful. And it's never too early to get started. Here is a gentle expression of the tenets of mindfulness, encouraging young children to breathe, taste, smell, and be present in the here and now. I Am Peace is a reflection of the power of mindfulness in all our lives. It is a perfect guide with which parents and teachers can help children pay attention to their feelings and learn to control their worry and anxiety. Includes a guided meditation. Also available: I Am Me I Am Yoga I Am One I Am Human I Am Love I Am Courage I Am . . . A Box of Goodness!
ISBN: 9781419727016Publication Date: 2017-09-26
Living with Viola by
"Unforgettable . . . will shake middle grade readers to the core."--School Library Journal, starred review "Beautifully illustrated, relatable, and genuine." --Molly Brooks, creator of Sanity & Tallulah "Everyone needs to buy this book now. Seriously. Buy it, read it, share it."--Colleen Nelson, author and teacher Honest and funny, this award-winning graphic novel from a debut creator is a refreshingly real exploration of mental health, cultural differences, and the trials of middle school. Livy is already having trouble fitting in as the new girl at school--and then there's Viola. Viola is Livy's anxiety brought to life, a shadowy twin that only Livy can see or hear. Livy tries to push back against Viola's relentless judgement, but nothing seems to work until she strikes up new friendships at school. Livy hopes that Viola's days are numbered. But when tensions arise both at home and at school, Viola rears her head stronger than ever. Only when Livy learns how to ask for help and face her anxiety does she finally figure out living with Viola. Rosena Fung draws on her own early experiences with anxiety and the pressures of growing up as the child of Chinese immigrant parents to craft a charming, deeply personal story that combines the poignancy of Raina Telgemeier's Guts with the wacky humor of Lumberjanes. Exuberant, colorful art brings Livy's rich imaginative world--filled with everything from sentient dumplings to flying unicorns--to life on the page.
ISBN: 9781773215495Publication Date: 2021-11-30
Small in the City by
The first picture book that the award-winning Sydney Smith has both written and illustrated is a story about feeling small in the city - and finding your way home.
On a snowy day in a big city, a little boy hops off a streetcar and walks through downtown, between office buildings, through parks and down busy streets. Along the way, he provides helpful tips about which alleys make good shortcuts, which trees to climb and where to find a friendly face. All the while, the boy searches for what he has lost ...
The first book that award-winning illustrator Sydney Smith has written tells a story of what it means to get lost in the city, travel the wrong path and get caught in bad weather - and to ultimately find your way back home. His beautiful watercolour illustrations alternate between full spreads and small panels, evoking the sometimes overwhelming cacophony of urban sights and sounds, as well as the quiet moments that make all of us feel less small in the city.
ISBN: 9781773061986Publication Date: 2019-09-01
What If? by
Anxiety. It's tough. It's tough for kids. It's tough to parent. That deep-rooted fear of what might happen, the atmosphere of self-doubt, the attack of fear: What if something bad happens? What if I don't know? What if they laugh? Or if i cry? But...what if something good happens? What if you laugh? And you make a friend? What If? Is a humour-filled, edgy, tender picture book that portrays what it feels like to have anxiety and responds to it with the potential of whimsy and joy. Doretta Groenendyk's new book What if? takes the young, worried child to journey through layered images of panic and into the delight of possibility.
ISBN: 9781773660615Publication Date: 2020-11-17
Poverty: Teaching Through Books: 4-8
Poverty refers to a lack of money to acquire basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. It is something that affects many families in Canada. Poverty can create cyclical inequities in all aspects of life, including health care, education, where you live, and how you feel about yourself.
Suitability: Grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
4 books, 1 duotang.
The King of Jam Sandwiches by
"Tug at the heartstrings and tickle the funny bone...This warm tale is definitely one for the keeper shelves. Highly recommended."--School Library Journal, starred review Thirteen-year-old Robbie leads a double life. It's just Robbie and his dad, but no one knows that his dad isn't like most parents. Sometimes he wakes Robbie up in the middle of the night to talk about dying. Sometimes he just leaves without telling Robbie where he's going. Once when Robbie was younger, he was gone for more than a week. Robbie was terrified of being left alone but even more scared of telling anyone in case he was put into foster care. No one can know. Until one day when Robbie has to show the tough new girl, Harmony, around school. Their first meeting ends horribly and she punches Robbie in the face. But eventually, they come to realize that they have a lot more in common than they thought. Can Robbie's new friend be trusted to keep his secret?
ISBN: 9781459825567Publication Date: 2020-09-22
More Than Money by
Economic inequality affects everybody. No matter how rich or poor you are, economic inequality impacts every aspect of your life--the place where you live, the opportunities you experience, the healthcare you get, the education you receive. More Than Money breaks down why the rich seem to be getting richer while the rest of us are struggling to just get by. With vivid, energetic illustrations, the use of graphs and charts, and tips for how to investigate topics of interest, readers learn the most important issues and ideas in economics to better understand the consequences of inequality.
ISBN: 9781773217017Publication Date: 2022-11-01
Shelter by
"An outstanding, sophisticated introduction to a complex topic, this book encourages readers to prioritize kindness towards and dignity for people experiencing homelessness. Recommended as a first purchase."--School Library Journal, starred review There are 150 million people experiencing homelessness worldwide, and that number is increasing every year. Homelessness is not a choice, yet it exists in almost every community. But why are people homeless? Who are they? What can you do? In Shelter: Homelessness in Our Community, readers will get answers to these complex questions. They'll learn about the root causes of homelessness and its effects, and what people and organizations around the world are doing to address the problem. It shares the personal stories of people who live on the street and the adults and kids who work with them. As a former homeless-shelter worker, author Lois Peterson encourages young people to approach the issue with knowledge and compassion. She dispels some of the myths about homelessness and makes the case for why everyone deserves a safe, permanent place to call home.
ISBN: 9781459825536Publication Date: 2021-10-12
Taking Action to End Poverty by
This timely book examines the elimination of global poverty--one of the United Nation's sustainable development goals. From tackling hunger to creating fair work opportunities, readers will gain an understanding of how all the UN goals work together, and learn concrete strategies to inspire change. Profiles of youth-led movements and other collaborative efforts to end poverty will empower readers to get involved themselves and become change-makers.
ISBN: 9780778766636Publication Date: 2019-09-30
