Science and Technology

This is a book for anyone, of any age, who cares about rivers.

This story of the Columbia River is unique. Told from the river’s perspective, it is an immersive, empathetic portrait of a once-wild river and of the Sinixt, a First People who lived on the mainstem of this great western river for thousands of years and continue to do so even though Canada declared them “extinct” in 1956.

The book’s re-release comes at a critical time for natural systems and for reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples across North America. The Colville Confederated Tribes, representing over 3,000 Sinixt People, recently won a precedent-setting case in the Supreme Court of Canada affirming that Aboriginal Rights do not stop at the border. The important story of the Sinixt weaves together with the ongoing ecological impact of hydropower development on the Columbia and its tributaries.

Central to the story is the joyous spirit of salmon, once a free swimmer in the Columbia’s currents north of the border but now blocked from ancestral spawning grounds by Grand Coulee and other dams. Restoring migratory fish indigenous to the Upper Columbia will require transboundary cooperation. With Indigenous Nations on both sides of the US–Canada border now leading the way, many are hopeful that the fish will return.

Lavishly illustrated by Nelson, BC, designer Nichola Lytle, this portrait of a globally significant river will inspire anyone who reads it to care about the future of the salmon, a fish that unites all of us in its quest for freedom and possibility.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Additional Information
96 pages | 9.50" x 8.50" | Paperback

Through the Squamish language and cultural traditions, learn about Indigenous plant relationships and how we are all connected to nature through plant-based foods, medicines, and materials. 

The best way to learn about plants is through observing and interacting with living examples. Join Held by the Land author Leigh Joseph and her children in The Land Knows Me, an educational, hands-on journey to discover all the wonderful uses and gifts of the plants around us. Through the Indigenous traditions of Squamish culture you’ll learn how to ground yourself on the land, how to introduce yourself in the Squamish language to your plant relatives, and the many teachings about plants, cultural stories, and learnings related to the flora seen on your walk.

This essential and colorful introduction to Indigenous plant knowledge includes informative sidebars, reflection questions, and plant names in both Squamish and English so children can learn a new language. 

The Land Knows Me concludes with a 15 plant profile directory featuring detailed plant illustrations and kid-friendly botanical drawings to aid in learning about the many great uses for plants and the native history behind them. You’ll meet plants like:

• Ḵwiĺayus (kw-ill-eye-os), Red-Flowering Currant, Ribes sanguineum
• Ḵ’emeláý (k-em-ill-eye), Bigleaf Maple, Acer macrophyllum
• Séliýaý (s-elle-ee-eye), Oregon Grape, Mahonia nervosa
• Xápaýay (hey-pie-eye), Western Red Cedar, Thuja plicata
• Ḵwe7úpaý (kw-oh-pa-eye), Pacific Crabapple, Malus fusca
• And more!

The directory also includes important safety and proper harvesting information for parents who are looking for more opportunities to educate and engage with kids while getting to know the secrets of the land around us. Including mindfulness activities, how-to crafts, and yummy treats, The Land Knows Me calls you back again and again to learn something new with each engaging read!

Follow the stream, cross the field, and step into a forest full of rich, botanical diversity rooted in history and tradition.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.

Additional Information
80 pages | 8.50" x 11.00" | Hardcover 

We all know animals are affected by the climate crisis. But did you know the climate crisis is also affected by animals?

From whales to dung beetles, What Poo Can Do explores how animals big and small are helping the planet every time they do a number two. Come on a journey to different parts of the world to see how animals are fertilizing plants, storing carbon, preventing fires, reducing methane and even creating color-coded maps—all through their feces! Readers will discover how animal defecation makes a difference when it comes to the climate crisis. It's time to embrace the power of poo!

Reviews
“Well-organized and sustains the reader’s interest…Highly recommended.”— CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“While most environmental titles for children focus on how humans can protect and care for the planet, this book focuses on animals who are already assisting the cause—with poop!”— Booklist

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

This book is part of the Orca Footprint series.

Reading Levels:
Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient: X
Lexile measure: 1090L
Guided Reading Level: X

Big Ideas & Themes: Environmental Awareness, Climate Change, Environmental Conservation & Protection, Green Issues, Sustainability, Wildlife

Additional Information
48 pages | 8.00" x 9.50" | Includes 41 colour photographs, 1 diagram, 1 index, 1 bibliography | Hardcover 

What happens when the needs of people and nature collide?

More than 13 million miles of roads crisscross landscapes in 222 countries. Roads offer many human benefits, but they also create problems for nature. Their construction leads to a loss of biodiversity through habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation. Roads isolate wildlife populations, impede migration and allow invasive plant and animal species to spread, while giving rise to pollution from garbage, light, noise and airborne contaminants. With innovative tools, like wildlife overpasses to reconnect landscapes, smart roads and vehicles to maximize safety, and a little hands on help, we can create environmental harmony. And sitting in the passenger seat, young people can play a part in helping highways and habitats coexist.

Reviews
“Well organized and includes clearly explained examples from many locations…This volume offers considerably more information for students researching the topic. An intriguing subject and a good resource for middle-grade reports.”— Booklist

“Gorgeous, crisp photographs complement the well-written text…A first purchase for libraries that need more books on the topic of conservation and the impact of development on wildlife.” — School Library Journal (SLJ)

“A fascinating, invaluable and enlightening tool for libraries, schools and homes alike. Wildlife Crossing will empower all readers to do their part when it comes to road ecology and will undoubtedly spark meaningful conversations about what it means to coexist with nature. Very highly recommended.”— Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Canadian Children’s Book News

“Wildlife Crossing gives an intriguing overview of the topic in just 48 pages, but it is a good addition to science collections with a focus on the environment. Highly Recommended.”— CM: Canadian Review of Materials

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

This book is part of the Orca Footprint series.

Reading Levels:
Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient: X 
Lexile measure: 1130L
Guided Reading Level: X

Additional Information
48 pages | 8.00" x 9.50" | Includes 74 colour photographs, 1 index, 1 bibliography | Hardcover 

A comprehensive guide to Ontario trees.

Featuring more than 1,400 vibrant photographs and illustrations, this visually rich and inviting field guide describes the trees likely to be encountered in Ontario, whether on a hike in the woods or on a walk down city streets.

Covering both naturally occurring and cultivated species, this book features an illustrated glossary of botanical terms, distribution maps, and photographs depicting distinctive characteristics of individual tree species.

With diagnostic descriptions for quick recognition of trees by their component parts, and easy-to-use identification keys covering summer and winter conditions, A Field Guide to Trees of Ontario is a must-have for tree enthusiasts--novices and experts alike.

Carry it with you wherever you may find trees, which is practically everywhere.

Additional Information
512 pages | 4.50" x 8.00" | Paperback

A middle-grade-friendly introduction to Pacific Northwest flora, with outdoor activities, games and quizzes that make learning about nature fun! Great for families and educators.

Get dirty digging up roots. Crouch down to look closely at a carnivorous sundew dissolving a dragonfly. Munch some lemony-tasting miner’s lettuce. Go on a scavenger hunt for some of nature’s more surprising creations, like the arbutus tree, a sculpture of living copper. Make a soothing plantain salve to treat an itch. Learn which berries you can eat and which to avoid.

Time spent outdoors encourages children’s self-confidence and independence, increases attention span and physical well-being, and fosters care for the environment. With the increasing intrusion of technology into daily life, and the challenges of climate chaos, it has never been more essential for parents and educators to encourage kids to engage with the natural environment. Plants are everywhere, even in urban areas where parks, empty lots and backyards offer the opportunity to learn from and connect to nature.

Drawing on her years of experience as a herbalist and outdoor educator, author Philippa Joly features more than fifty richly illustrated plant profiles, including information on identification and ecology, uses in Coastal Indigenous cultures, and fun activities—all in a way that is accessible and interesting to readers of all ages.

Reviews
“This is an absolutely delightful book, dedicated to helping children and youth build relationships with the plants in their world. It is a rich compendium of plant portraits and descriptions, personal stories, recipes, games and hands-on activities—like making tea from Yerba Buena or making a root-digging stick of Oceanspray. Philippa’s obvious love of kids, plants and the natural world shines through—and it is catching!” — Nancy Turner, Professor Emeritus, University of Victoria, and author of Plants of Haida Gwaii

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 12.

Table of Contents
1. Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast
2. Regions and Plants Covered by This Book
3. Plant Names and Language
4. Dos and Dont's of Wildcrafting Plants
5. Understanding Plant Families
6. Plant Guilds
7. Poisonous Plants
8. Invasive Plants
9. Plant Profiles
10. For Parents and Educators

Additional Information
232 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Paperback

Animals & Their Babies was created by father and daughter Coast Salish artists Francis Horne and Simone Diamond. It is the first Indigenous board book that features baby animals and their parents. Through this board book, young children can learn the names of baby animals while being introduced to traditional, authentic Coast Salish Indigenous art at an early age.

Animals & Their Babies is Simone Diamond's first board book ever written.

Educator Information
Board book for young children.

"My daughter, Simone Diamond, was born into a world of creativity, blessed with a rich cultural background. From an early age she was passionate about learning Coast Salish Art. Our art is our recorded history, expressing stories, legends, and connections to ancestors and the natural world. Coast Salish artists become knowledge keepers and play an important role in the continuation of our art and culture. This book celebrates art, culture, the natural world and the love between parents and their children." - Francis Horne Sr.

"On a daily basis I witness the natural world around me. My observations translate into my art. Coast Salish art has allowed me to connect to my roots. My art is a form of expression that was waiting to manifest and chose to do that through my hands and vision. I am grateful that I get to share this gift with the world and hope that it inspires others to authentically express their own creativity in whatever form or medium that may be. Parenthood has allowed me to slow down in this fast-paced life to nurture my daughter's curiosities of the world around her" - Simone Diamond

Additional Information
18 Pages | 6.5" x 6.5" | Boardbook 

Animals Illustrated mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books about Arctic animals.

Each volume contains first-hand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal. In this book, kids will learn about the many body adaptations that make Arctic foxes perfectly designed for life in the Arctic, as well as some of their amazing abilities—like being able to travel huge distances in search of food, even swimming between islands on their quest!

Educator & Series Information 
Recommended Ages: 6-8

This book is part of the non-fiction Animals Illustrated series, which mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains firsthand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.

This book is available in French: Renard Arctique.

Additional Information 
28 pages | 6.50" x 9.00" | Hardcover

From New York Times bestselling picture book author Carole Lindstrom and illustrator Bridget George comes Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior, an inspiring picture book biography about two Indigenous Rights Activists, Josephine Mandamin and Autumn Peltier.

The seventh generation is creating
A sea of change.

It was a soft voice, at first.
Like a ripple.
But with practice it grew louder.

Indigenous women have always worked tirelessly to protect our water—keeping it pure and clean for the generations to come. Yet there was a time when their voices and teachings were nearly drowned out, leaving entire communities and environments in danger and without clean water.

But then came Grandma Josephine and her great-niece, Autumn Peltier.

Featuring a foreword from water advocate and Indigenous Rights Activist Autumn Peltier herself, this stunning picture book from New York Times-bestselling author Carole Lindstrom and illustrator Bridget George gives voice to the water and asks young readers to join the tidal wave of change.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Additional Information
40 pages | 10.45" x 10.30" | Hardcover

This bundle includes all four titles in the By Day and By Night Nature Series:

• Hideaway Cove (hardcover)
• A Night at Hideaway Cove (paperback) 
• Fernwood Forest (hardcover)
• A Night in Fernwood Forest (hardcover)

Each book in the By Day and By Night Nature Series focuses on a scene typical of a distinct west coast habitat, showing how living and non-living things are connected in a healthy ecosystem. As readers, we observe animals going about their daily activities: caring for their young, searching for food, and responding to the changes in light, temperature, and weather conditions throughout the day or night. The last four pages of each book provide facts about the highlighted animals and plants as well as features that are unique to their habitats. The final page suggests ways that young readers and their families can be respectful as they visit wilderness areas.

Readers with a sense of curiosity will find opportunities in these books to:

• use picture clues to predict the featured animal on the next page
• identify, count, and sequence numbers (1 owl, 2 deer, 3 squirrels, etc.)
• search for small creatures that travel from page to page
• discover patterns in the text and structure of the books
• track the movement of the sun, or moon, across the sky

Reading Level: Nonfiction text features such as headings, bold words, bullets, captions, and labelled diagrams make these books accessible to independent readers in grades 2 to 4. The books would also be great “read-alouds” for younger children.

Curriculum Links
Reading - Providing opportunities for guided practise in using reading strategies: visualizing, making connections, asking questions, transforming, and inferring.

Science - Supporting discussion and further exploration:

• characteristics of living things
• needs of living things
• connections between living and non-living things
• daily and seasonal changes
• animal growth and changes
• plant growth and changes
• weather
• habitats
• observable patterns in the sky

Numeracy - Counting and sequencing of numbers 1 to 10.

Social Responsibility - Initiating discussions about ways to take care of wilderness areas.

Lesson plans are available for each book and are free to download from each book's listing on our website!

Additional Information
Titles included are 32 pages, 8.5" x 11"

​Please note: All books in this bundle are hardcovers, except for A Night at Hideaway Cove, which is a paperback as the hardcover edition is out of print. ​

What can archaeology and Indigenous Traditional Knowledge tell us about how our marine environments have changed over time and the effects of climate change?

From harvesting herring eggs to hunting humpback whales, humans have had a relationship with the world's oceans for more than 100,000 years. In Dig Deep: Connecting Archaeology, Oceans and Us, young readers unearth what our ancestors left behind at archaeological sites around the world and examine how tools, campsites, fishing technologies and even garbage can show us how our ancestors lived and how they used the ocean. These discoveries can unearth clues to help keep our oceans healthier today and in the future.

Reviews
“Provides readers with an introduction to archeology…Slim yet informative…Recommended.” — School Library Connection

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

This book is part of the Orca Footprint series.

Additional Information
48 pages | 8.00" x 9.50" | Hardcover

Part of the Little Explorers series, this book shows young readers how to garden everything from flowers to veggies — and offers tips and tricks for keeping it all in bloom.

Let's get our hands dirty!

Whether you have a big backyard or pots on a balcony, you can grow just about anything if you have healthy soil, plenty of water, and bright sunlight. This book in the Little Explorers series takes young readers through every step to creating their own garden: from collecting nutrient-rich soil and choosing the right time of day to water your plants, to identifying helpful critters from unwanted pests. Featuring new vocabulary words like "germinate," "fertilizer," and "pollinator," and encouraging a microscopic look at nature, this is the perfect book for curious little gardeners.

What will you grow first?

Educator & Series Information
Recommended Ages: 4-8

This book is part of the Little Explorers Series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.00" x 6.50"

Grizzlies are one of North America’s most iconic wildlife species.

They once roamed across half the continent, but today the grizzly population has declined at an alarming rate and it is incredibly difficult to rebuild those numbers, especially in places with a lot of people. Yet grizzlies are key members of their ecological communities and a powerful symbol of wilderness. Filled with facts and richly illustrated with photos, Grizzly Bears: Guardians of the Wilderness explores the biology of grizzlies and the vital ecological role these bears play, and it asks readers to consider what it takes to share the land with them. Learn from conservationists, scientists, Indigenous Peoples and young people who are working to ensure that grizzlies will be with us forever.

Reviews
Offers kid-friendly explanations...An important book for helping kids see past the stereotypes of terrifying grizzly bears and join the call for conservation.” — School Library Journal, starred review

“A high level of expertise, up-to-date research, thorough topic treatment and appealing presentation…Readers will come to appreciate a magnificent creature's struggles to maintain its place on this planet that we share. Highly Recommended.” — CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“This phenomenal book is a must for anyone with even the slightest interest in bears. Even someone who isn't particularly interested in learning more about grizzlies likely won’t be able to resist being drawn in. Highly Recommended.” — School Library Connection

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

This book is part of the Orca Wild series that examines the intricacies of animals, ecosystems, humans and our relationships to each other.

Includes some Indigenous content.

A free, downloadable poster is available: Poster - Grizzly Bears: Guardians of the Wilderness

Additional Information
96 pages | 7.50" x 9.00" | Hardcover

Join the monarchs as they embark on a transcontinental journey home in this moving story about migration.

As the sun dawns in Canada, a flutter of monarch butterflies take flight, ready to begin their months-long journey to their ancestral home in Mexico. The migration will not be easy, but it is necessary for the next generation of monarchs to be born. Brought to life with illustrations as vivid as the monarch’s iconic orange and black hues, this story invites young readers to experience the monarch’s migration from the butterflies’ point of view as they search for food, huddle together through storms, and tirelessly fly south.

Parents and educators alike will find much to love about this poetically written book. The story touches on how climate change and deforestation are impacting monarchs, and kid-friendly back matter provides additional information about the butterflies, including their life cycle, anatomy, and migratory patterns, as well as several simple ways children can help monarch butterflies themselves.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 7.

Additional information
40 pages | 9.50" x 10.00" | Hardcover