Information Circles

Being an ally is about learning and action. It's a constant, ongoing willingness to engage in the hard, confronting work of standing alongside those who don't have the same privileges.

As a young person, it can be difficult to take a stand for others when the need to fit in is so strong. But everyone can be an ally. Learn to acknowledge the privileges you have based on your identity, the difference between allyship and being a performative ally and how to address mistakes when we make them. In this book, young readers will work through realistic scenarios that show allyship in action and develop tools to become the best allies they can be.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

Includes some Indigenous content.

Additional Information
48 pages | 6.50" x 8.50" | 39 Colour Illustrations, 1 Index, 1 Bibliography; Hardcover 

A bilingual Mi'kmaw-English board book promoting dental health in baby's first year.

Every morning and every night I need help brushing my teeth.
Look at me smiling so healthy and happy.

Healthy gums and teeth improve overall wellness and quality of life, and help you feel confident in your smile. Beginning during pregnancy, there are things you can do to support your child's gum and teeth health.

This informative board book written in Mi'kmaw and English will teach caregivers how to support their child's oral health through their first year of life and beyond. Develop healthy habits and learn what food and drink is best for growing teeth and gums, when to take baby to their first dental visit, and the appropriate amount of toothpaste for children.

Written by the Tui'kn Partnership with support from the Dalhousie University Faculty of Dentistry, Baby Smiles will make sure that baby's teeth are healthy and happy their whole life long.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 and under.

Dual-Language: Mi'kmaw-English.

Additional Information
28 pages | 7.00" x 7.00" | Board Book 

When the nighttime sky fills with stars, Grandmother Mouse awakens and begins her grounding ceremonies.

Inhale, exhale
Inhale, exhale
Inhale, exhale. . .

Gifted to the Nisg̱a'a People, Grandmother Mouse is a nurturing protector, tending to the hearts and minds of the people, the plants, the animals, and all of our relations. Imbuing the world with smudge, blessings, and affirmations, Grandmother Mouse is here to offer you gentle, yet profound, teachings so you may walk through life with good intention and strong spirit.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4+.

Additional Information
24 pages | 8.00" x 8.00" | Hardcover 

We are all connected. Whether it is with your family, the mossy earth beneath your feet, the warm guidance of your ancestors, you belong in connection with all around you.

Along the backdrop of Haida Gwaii's breathtaking landscapes, Indigenous storyteller, Ḵung Jaadee, invites you to witness the many threads of relationship that connect us across time and space.

What makes you feel connected?

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6+.

Includes a few word and phrases in the Haida language.

A teacher lesson plan is available here: I am Connected Teacher Lesson Plan.

This book is available in French: Je suis liée.

Additional Information
28 pages | 9.00" x 10.00" | Hardcover 

An evocative autobiographical picture book about Cree activist Na'kuset's life as a young girl taken from her home along with thousands of other indigenous children during the 1960s, and the journey of discovery that leads her to reclaim her life and culture.

I have come from somewhere else, where
I am Cree and I have a big sister
and another name.

One night, a very young girl was removed from her home during Canada’s Sixties Scoop, which tore children from their Indigenous communities. She woke in a new home, with a new family and a new name—her former life fading to a ghost of a memory. The only place she ever felt like she fit in was with her grandmother—her Bubbie—who listened to her and made her chicken soup and wrapped her in her loving arms. Until one day…the girl discovered the truth. And her beloved Bubbie helped her on her journey to claim her identity, her voice—and her name.

Together, Na'kuset and Judith Henderson tell the powerful story of the Indigenous experience for a child during the Sixities Scoop. Cree illustrator Onedove shared how inspired they are by Na'kuset's story and activism, and that is made evident in the tender and vivid illustrations that bring Na'kuset's story to life.

Educator Information
Recommendations for ages 6 to 9.

Lexile measure: 450L 
Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient: O

Additional Information
40 pages | 9.50" x 9.50" | Hardcover

With simple, lyrical text and vibrant panoramic illustrations, this picture book explores the beauty and resources of thirteen ancestral Indigenous lands and how we all use those lands each day. Simple poetry and portrayals of children and families enjoying rivers, bike paths, beaches, and parks show how everyday activities can include honoring Indigenous nations and cultures.

Author Katrina Phillips (Ojibwe citizen) and illustrator Sam Zimmerman (Ojibwe direct descendant) together have crafted a loving tribute that gently demonstrates recognition and acknowledgement of the nations of people who first called these lands home.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 9.

Additional Information
32 pages | 10.00" x 8.00" | Hardcover 

Microbes are tiny but mighty, and they're everywhere!

When left alone, microbes such as bacteria, fungi and algae are experts at adapting, surviving and thriving under extreme and constantly changing conditions. These natural problem solvers can help fight the climate crisis by gobbling up pollutants, breaking down plastic, generating clean energy and capturing carbon. By harnessing the power of microbes, we can create eco-friendly packaging, farm-free food, and even make it easier to live in space! Microbes to the Rescue will introduce young readers to life on a microscopic level and explore how bacteria, fungi and algae play a key role in the connection between all life on Earth. Let’s get microscopic and learn about how microbes can create a cleaner and more sustainable future.

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: 1110L 
Guided Reading Level: X

Additional Information
56 pages | 8.00" x 9.50"| Includes 63 colour photographs, 1 index, 1 bibliography | Hardcover 

How many footsteps have walked your street in the past? My Street Remembers peels back the history of one city street in North America to reveal the greater story of the land on which we live.

The story begins 14,000 years ago, when mammoths roamed the icefields, and the First Peoples followed their trail. Historically accurate illustrations show the lives of their descendants over thousands of years as they hunted and gathered food, built homes and celebrated together, until the 1600s, when Europeans arrived with settlers in their wake.

In lyrical text, the street remembers agreements to live in peace, the efforts of the British to take the land with unfair treaties, and the conflict and suffering that followed. The street recalls its naming, paving and the waves of immigrants who called it home. Illustrations of recent times depict Canada's apology to Indigenous Peoples and efforts toward Truth and Reconciliation, including a march with a banner that reads: Every Child Matters.

This rich collaboration between author Karen Krossing, of White settler descent, and Anishinaabe artist Cathie Jamieson ends with a question that readers anywhere can ask-what does your street remember?

Reviews
"A thoughtful overview and reflection on the life and legacy of a busy street." — Booklist

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 6.

This book is part of the Better Path series.

Reading Levels: Lexile NC940L

Key Text Features:

• author's note
• bibliography
• captions
• explanation
• facts
• flags
• further information
• historical context
• historical note
• illustrations
• illustrator's notes
• sources
• timeline
• vignettes
• writing inspiration

Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.3

Describe characters, settings, and major events in a story, using key details.

Additional Information
48 pages | 11.00" x 8.00" | Hardcover 

We have a serious plastic problem.

What was supposed to be a miracle material when it was first invented is now one of the biggest sources of pollution on our planet. But where does plastic come from? Why do we use so much of it? How does it hurt the environment and the animals who live there? Our Plastic Problem looks at plastic's history, uses, and how it affects land, water, air and human health. It also explores innovations in bioplastic and recycling, and practical ways to reduce and replace the plastic in our lives. Working together, we can solve our plastic problem.

Reviews
“Like other books in the Orca Footprints series, this volume is accessible, broadly informative, and illustrated with many pertinent color photos. A timely introduction to a serious environmental issue.” — Booklist

“Durnford effectively communicates a sense of urgency. Young eco-activists will also find general guidelines for localized projects, as well as specific instructions for laundering clothing to reduce microfibre shedding, among other immediately applicable advice. Accentuates the positive without minimizing the issue’s scope.” — Kirkus Reviews

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: 1070L
Guided Reading Level: X

Additional Information
48 pages | 8.00" x 9.50" | Includes 78 colour photographs, 1 index, 1 bibliography | Hardcover 

Powwows are about dancing! Indigenous people in America come together at powwows to celebrate their culture and traditions with drumming, singing, and dancing. Together they remember their history and honor their ancestors. Dancers show off their best moves and fancy regalia in dances that tell stories or remember important moments in history. Lively photos and easy-to-read text help readers learn about contemporary powwow dances and traditions and their roots in the past. Readers will discover how Indigenous traditions honor the past and celebrate the present.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 8.

Additional Information
32 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Paperback 

Vibrant traditions, rich histories, and strong voices—that’s the Cherokee Nation. In this inspiring nonfiction book for young readers, discover more about the people, places, and culture of one of the United States’ largest Indigenous groups. Explore how the Cherokee people still survive—and thrive—by safeguarding their language, reviving customs, and upholding celebrations, like the annual Cherokee National Holiday that honors their heritage. Through interactive activities and engaging features—including maps, timelines, recipes, and crafts—Cherokee author Twila M. Barnes provides young learners with important insights into the past, present, and future of the Cherokee people.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

This book is part of the Indigenous Peoples series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Paperback 

Colorful celebrations, ancient histories, and enduring customs—that’s the Inuit people. In this insightful nonfiction book for young readers, discover more about the people, places, and customs that connect Inuit communities across the vast Arctic landscape. Explore how the Inuit people thrive in Earth’s northernmost regions by honoring their language, preserving traditional ways of life, and gathering for celebrations, such as Kivgiq, a joyful festival of music, drumming, and dance. Through interactive activities and engaging features—including maps, timelines, recipes, and stories—Iñupiaq author Tia Tidwell offers young learners valuable insights into the past, present, and future of this remarkable culture.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

This book is part of the Indigenous Peoples series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Paperback 

Time-honored values, majestic landscapes, and a resilient spirit—that's the Lakota Nation. In this insightful nonfiction book for young readers, discover more about the people, places, and heritage of Lakota communities across the Northern Plains. Explore how the Lakota people continue to thrive by preserving their language, practicing timeless traditions, and celebrating respected ceremonies, like the annual Sun Dance, which brings relatives together in community and prayer. Through interactive activities and engaging features—including maps, timelines, recipes, and crafts—Lakota author Tracy Hauff introduces young learners to the past, present, and future of this vibrant culture.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

This book is part of the Indigenous Peoples series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Paperback 

Spiritual ceremonies, powerful storytelling, and timeless wisdom—that’s the Navajo Nation. In this captivating nonfiction book for young readers, discover more about the people, places, and traditions that unify the Navajo Nation. Learn how the Navajo people continue to thrive in the Southwest by preserving their language, celebrating cultural practices, and participating in meaningful ceremonies, such as the Kinaaldá, a coming-of-age ritual for young women. Through interactive activities and engaging features—including maps, timelines, recipes, and crafts—Navajo author Jennifer R. Denetdale shares valuable insights into the past, present, and future of this resilient culture.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

This book is part of the Indigenous Peoples series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Paperback 

Spirited powwows, close family ties, and a deep connection to the land—that’s the Ojibwe Nation. In this captivating nonfiction book for young readers, discover more about the people, places, and customs that shape Ojibwe life across the Great Lakes region. Uncover how the Ojibwe people continue to thrive by preserving their language, celebrating traditions, and gathering at powwows, where drumming, dancing, and storytelling keep their culture alive. Through interactive activities and engaging features—including maps, timelines, recipes, and crafts—Ojibwe author Kim Sigafus provides young learners with meaningful insights into the past, present, and future of this enduring culture.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

This book is part of the Indigenous Peoples series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Paperback