Kids Book

Synopsis:
All That You Are is a series of heartwarming, affirmational picture books from author and illustrator Sarah-Anne Tourond.
Through lyrical text and watercolour illustrations, this series shares the teachings of the Anishinaabe Medicine Wheel to remind children of their connection to the world around them. Each book is inspired by one quadrant of the Medicine Wheel that represents an aspect of wellness—Spiritual, Physical, Emotional, or Mental. A diagram of the Medicine Wheel is included at the back of the books. Anishinaabe Connections are also included to share more about Anishinaabe art, culture, and traditions explored in the text and illustrations.
A percentage of proceeds from this series is donated to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society to support their efforts in advocacy for justice and healing. To find out more information, please visit https://www.irsss.ca/.
Books in the All That You Are Series include:
You Are Sacred – Connects to the Spiritual quadrant of the Medicine Wheel
You Are the Land – Connects to the Physical quadrant of the Medicine Wheel
Educator Information
Books in the All That You Are series are best suited for children ages 3 to 6 and make wonderful read-alouds in classrooms and homes.
Free lesson plans and activity sheets are available for each book.
Curriculum Connections:
Early Literacy – listening, reading, and discussing
Art – the rhythm and music of the world around us, traditional Anishinaabe clothing and art
Health and Wellness – focusing on breath and balance, self-affirmation
Science – harmonious ecosystems, biodiversity of plants and animals with Indigenous cultural importance, environmental awareness
Social Responsibility – uplifting others and ourselves
Indigenous Knowledge and Traditions – teachings of the Anishinaabe Medicine Wheel, the Seven Generations, and All Our Relations
Additional Information
Each book is 24 pages | 8” x 8” | Hardcover | Series ISBN: 978-1-77174-630-4
Synopsis:
Aloha Everything is a magical story that will take you on a thrilling journey through the breathtaking islands of Hawaiʻi!
In this exciting adventure, you'll encounter mighty canoes crashing over ocean waves, regal hawks soaring high above the clouds, and brilliant lizards jumping nimbly through forest trees! Most importantly, you'll meet a courageous young girl named Ano who learns, grows, and comes to love her island home with all her heart.
Since the day that Ano was born, her heart has been connected to her home. But, this adventurous child has a lot to learn! When Ano begins to dance hula — a storytelling dance form that carries the knowledge, history, and folklore of the Hawaiian people — Ano comes to understand the true meaning of aloha.
Aloha Everything is both a captivating read and a fantastic educational resource for learning about Hawaiian history, ecology, and culture. With breathtaking hand-painted illustrations and beautiful rhyming poetry that will lull little ones into brilliant dreams of vibrant adventure, this book is sure to capture the hearts of both children and parents alike.
The beautiful poetry—weaving its way through every page—artfully blends 25 Hawaiian words into the English prose and provides a thoughtful exploration of the meaning of aloha in relation to the land, the people, and the lore. There is also a pronunciation guide and glossary providing additional information for those looking to learn more about the rich language and culture of Hawai’i.
Reviews
"Mesmerizing, metered verse combines English and Hawaiian words for a rich tale of Hawaiian history, culture, ecology, and legends. Making deft use of light and shadow, the vibrant images bring the text to life... A stunning tribute to Hawaiian culture and identity."–starred review, Kirkus
"Lush illustrations by Waite and rhythmic quatrains by Melia George paint the story of a Hawaiian girl who learns about her cultural heritage through hula. . . . acrylic and gouache paintings linger on the eye in this gossamer work." –Publishers Weekly
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 8.
Additional Information
40 pages | 11.25" x 9.75" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
A festive, joyful Indigenous picture book that explores both Christmas traditions and Anishinaabe culture, for fans of Santa in the City and Go Show the World.
One winter solstice, Mommy says, "Baby, we're going home to the Rez. We're going to have an Anishinaabe Christmas." But this is Baby's first Christmas away from the city, and they're worried! They have a lot of questions:
How will Santa know where to find them?
Why do we have presents on Christmas?
How come they're going home to the Rez but don't live there?
On the long trip to Mooshom's and Kookom's, Baby learns about animals being part of their family, about the North Star leading them home and even the meanings of some Anishinaabe words. Will this Anishinaabe Christmas be Baby's best yet?
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.
Additional Information
48 pages | 9.00" x 10.25" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Anahareo Saves the Beaver is the lost story of how Anahareo, an Indigenous woman, helps save the beaver from extinction. Anahareo helps to initiate the conservation movement by convincing Grey Owl to adopt two beaver kits and give up trapping. She helps him raise environmental awareness around the world. The story is accompanied by some Anishinabe translations and teachings as well as some thought-provoking environmental insights which will appeal to children ages 3 to 8.
Educator Information
The publisher recommends this work for ages 3 to 8.
Translation and Indigenous Teachings are by Dennis and Elaine Mckay, Anishinabe elders, Rolling River First Nation.
Proceeds from this book go to Friends of Riding Mountain.
Additional Information
32 Pages | 8.5" x 8.5" | Paperback
Synopsis:
A deep dive into the minds of animals and how they think.
Wouldn't it be amazing to see inside the mind of a lion, a gorilla, an octopus or even a bee? In Animal Minds: What Are They Thinking?, author Dana L. Church looks at how scientists are doing just that. Their research shows that a wide variety of species have unique personalities, impressive memories, counting abilities, and incredible problem-solving skills.
Meet the scientists who study the minds of animals, discover the similarities and differences between the minds of different species and learn how they compare to our own. From dolphins to dung beetles, tigers to turkey vultures, Animal Minds shows that we are only beginning to scratch the surface when it comes to revealing the amazing inner worlds of the thousands of different creatures with whom we share this planet.
Reviews
“The book includes questions and answers with women scientists in the field, sidebars, and eye-catching full-page color photos. A good starting book on animal cognition for any young animal lover who has wondered if animals are more like humans than we think.”— Booklist
“Full-colour photos and illustrations are well-chosen and positioned to enhance understanding…Young readers…will find Animal Minds: What Are They Thinking? intriguing. It might help fill [a] knowledge gap and offer inspiration for further investigation. Highly recommended.”— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
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.
Additional Information
96 pages | 7.50" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
In this fun board book for young kids, turtles skateboard, salmon snorkel, bears take photos and otters frolic with floaties!
Mi’kmaw artist Mel Beaulieu’s lively modern take on traditional beadwork brings these animals to life. Mi’kma’ki’s most iconic animals are portrayed in this colourful and whimsical book.
Mi’kmaw names (and pronunciation guides) make this a great introduction to contemporary Mi’kma’ki for very young children.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 2 to 5.
Additional Information
6.53" x 6.53 | Board Book
Synopsis:
Perfect for nature-loving young readers who want to expand their knowledge of Arctic animals beyond polar bears and walruses!
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 what ravens eat, where they live, how they raise their babies, and other interesting facts, like the fact that ravens have one of the biggest brains of any bird and that they can use tools!
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.
Reading Levels:
Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient: P
Guided Reading Level: P
This book is available in French: Corbeau.
Additional Information
28 pages | 6.50" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Discover the power of poetry in this simple, modern introduction to Indigenous poet Alexander Posey, featuring an ode to autumn and the changing seasons
Autumn depicts a dreamy fall day full of jaybird songs and scarlet leaves dancing through the air. In this poem, Muscogee poet Alexander Posey celebrates the changing of the seasons as the golden sun sets on summer and the world prepares for a time of rest. With stunning illustrations from Salish artist Paige Pettibon and interactive back matter that encourages young readers to create their own poetry, this accessible picture book is a joy for young poets and their parents alike.
Reviews
"A dreamy, succinct poem across many pages that all together encapsulates the sense of fall. A strong first purchase. The poem and artwork, which create an exquisite sense of a child’s joy in playing on an autumn afternoon, will appeal to all ages." — School Library Journal
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Additional Information
24 pages | 8.00" x 8.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Only 19 years old, Autumn Peltier has achieved so much by advocating for her community. Discover more about her advocacy for Indigenous peoples and clean water.
Educator Information
Juvenile Nonfiction.
Additional Information
24 Pages
Synopsis:
Big or small, sweet or savoury, with stew or with sprinkles, there are tons of ways to enjoy bannock!
This rhyming book explores a favourite Inuit food, and has some fun along the way. What’s your favourite way to eat bannock?
Try it at home with the included bannock recipe!
Written by Inuk/Dene writer Masiana Kelly, this sweet and simple narrative celebrates this delicious food!
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Additional Information
28 pages | 9.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
For kids ages 6 to 10, this nature activity guide is the perfect companion for every child’s next outdoor adventure, from the New York Times bestselling author of The Hidden Life of Trees and Can You Hear the Trees Talking?
An excellent resource for parents, teachers, and curriculums ranging from outdoor education to homeschool and forest school.
Whether you are in the forest, in your own backyard, or in the city, there are so many exciting ways to engage with nature—and forester Peter Wohlleben has the best ideas for doing so. With Be A Nature Explorer!, kids will learn how to press flowers, harvest algae, skip stones, observe spiders, and even how to build their own tiny sailboat.
This ultimate kids' nature book features:
- 52 short, fun, and hands-on activities to help kids explore and discover the outdoors—one for each week of the year.
- Portable format: This lightweight paperback is designed to easily throw in a backpack and refer to on adventures.
- STEM learning and outdoor skill development: Kids will learn how to decode nature’s messages, identify plants and animal tracks, record and preserve their finds, and more.
Packed with activities that will fill kids with wonder and confidence in the outdoors, readers will be dipping in and out of Be A Nature Explorer! all year round.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 10.
Curriculum Connections: Nature and the Environment, Outdoor Learning
Published in partnership with the David Suzuki Institute.
Additional Information
100 pages | 6.00" x 8.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
From Sibert Honor–winning author Traci Sorell and Caldecott Medal–winning artist Michaela Goade comes a heartwarming picture book about a Native American family and the joy of moving back to their ancestral land.
Today is a day of excitement—it’s time to move! As a young Cherokee girl says goodbye to the swing, the house, and the city she's called home her whole life, she readies herself for the upcoming road trip. While her mother drives, the girl draws the changing landscape outside her window. She looks forward to the end of the journey, where she'll eat the feast her family has prepared, play in the creek with her cousins, and settle into the new rhythm of home.
With warm, expressive artwork and spare, lyrical prose, the story of a young girl’s move toward rather than away from home unfolds.
Reviews
"An evocative, heartwarming testament to the power of home and community." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
"It’s a joyful image of a family embracing change that examines “the rhythm of being home." —Publishers Weekly starred review
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.
Additional Information
32 pages | 10.00" x 10.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Une enfant différente de sa mère découvre la beauté et un sentiment d’appartenance, dans ce nouveau livre de la créatrice de Les étoiles m’ont chanté ton nom, un livre à succès du New York Times.
L’endroit préféré d’Izzy est dans les bras de sa maman, peau contre peau, en sécurité et au chaud. Un soir, blottie sur les genoux de sa mère, Izzy constate une chose qu’elle n’avait jamais remarquée auparavant : sa peau est de la couleur du chocolat, alors que celle de sa mère est de la couleur du sable.
Quand Izzy se rend compte qu’elle est aussi différente de sa mère sur d’autres plans, elle se sent triste et confuse. Elle souhaite tant être jolie comme sa maman!
En tirant des leçons de la nature et en répétant sa douce berceuse, la maman d’Izzy l’encourage à reconnaître sa propre beauté, tout à fait unique. Cette histoire d’une enfant née de parents d’origines différentes, qui navigue entre identité et appartenance, s’inspire de l’expérience personnelle de l’autrice, Tasha Spillett-Sumner, qui est afro-autochtone. Un texte lyrique et des illustrations chaleureuses et vivantes illustrent le parcours d’Izzy, qui apprend à célébrer les différences qui rendent sa beauté unique, et le lien avec sa mère qui transcende les traits physiques.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.
This book is available in English: Beautiful You, Beautiful Me
Additional Information
32 pages | 8.32" x 10.97"
Synopsis:
Benjamin aime la pluie. Il adore patauger dans les flaques avec ses bottes jaune vif et regarder les couleurs de l’arc-en-ciel dans l’eau qui ondule sous ses pieds. Mais surtout, Benjamin adore le tonnerre. Pour lui, le tonnerre – piyêsiwak – ressemble au bruit que fait le tambour de son grand-père. Cette musique l’interpelle, comme les chansons que joue son grand-père pendant que son père et d’autres danseurs de pow-wow tournent et bougent au rythme du tambour. Alors que Benjamin entend le tonnerre gronder au-dessus de sa tête, il s’imagine être un danseur de pow-wow. Il tourne, tape des pieds et lève les genoux. Il virevolte de plus en plus vite, ravi et empli du rythme du piyêsiwak.
Cette histoire, écrite par la talentueuse autrice primée Melanie Florence, célèbre à la fois les joies de jouer sous la pluie et les liens avec les traditions familiales qui nous centrent et nous enracinent. Des éléments de la culture du pow-wow cri et des mots cris pour désigner les couleurs et le temps qu’il fait sont intégrés à l’histoire, avec un guide de prononciation. Les illustrations vibrantes et accrocheuses de Hawlii Pichette, inspirées par les paysages du nord de l’Ontario, ajoutent à l’intérêt de ce livre.
Cet album illustré attrayant constitue une lecture parfaite pour les journées pluvieuses, ainsi qu’une excellente introduction aux traditions culturelles cries, aux communautés locales et à la découverte de la nature.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.
This book is available in English: Benjamin's Thunderstorm
Additional Information
32 Pages | Paperback
Synopsis:
A Fresh Retelling of the Christmas Story!
When they arrived, the time for Bitter Tears to have her child was upon her! But no place could be found in the lodging house, so He Gives Sons found a sheep cave where it was warm and dry.
There, Bitter Tears gave birth to her son. They wrapped him in a soft, warm blanket and laid him on a baby board. Then they placed him on a bed of straw in a feeding trough.
Every year at Christmas, Christians around the world celebrate the birth of Jesus—the Chosen One. Birth of the Chosen One is a unique retelling of this familiar story since it is an adaptation of the Gospel of Luke from the First Nations Version.
Birth of the Chosen One includes:
- The story of Jesus told in the tradition of Native storytellers' oral cultures
- A dynamic equivalence translation of the Christmas story that helps readers of all ages experience Scripture in a fresh and new way
- Illustrations from Native artists Hannah and Holly Buchanan
- A note from the author to encourage further conversation between children and the adults who read with them
Reviews
"It is a gentle, smooth account of Jesus' birth. I pray it reaches a vast audience encouraging each one's effort to search deeper." — Warren D. Petoskey, elder of the Waganakising Odawa and Minneconjou Lakotah nations and author of Dancing My Dream
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.
Additional Information
32 pages | 9.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover