Stories of Inspiration

Learn the meaning behind the phrase, ‘Every Child Matters.'

Orange Shirt Day founder, Phyllis Webstad, offers insights into this heartfelt movement.

Every Child Matters honours the history and resiliency of Indigenous Peoples on Turtle Island and moves us all forward on a path toward Truth and Reconciliation.

If you're a Residential School Survivor or an Intergenerational Survivor - you matter. For the children who didn't make it home - you matter. The child inside every one of us matters. Every Child Matters.

Reviews
"Every Child Matters speaks to all Indigenous Peoples - past and present - whose lives have been impacted by the residential school system. Phyllis and Karlene beautifully honour the unity, strength and resolve shared by Survivors, their families and their communities. Residential schools took our children and tried to break their vibrant spirits. With this book, the children of today can learn the truths of this history and how they can play a part in making sure every child matters." – Stephanie Scott, Executive Director of the National Center for Truth and Reconciliation

“…a brilliantly illustrated and meticulously written narrative. It is a must read.” -  Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, Gwawaenuk, Elder, Reconciliation Canada

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 10.

Find the accompanying Teacher Lesson Plan resource HERE!

This book is available in French: Chaque enfant compte

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

A gorgeous picture book that pays homage to aviator Freddie Carmichael — the first Indigenous commercial pilot in the Arctic —with each month of the year highlighting moments from his life, the beauty of the North and the power of dreams.

When Freddie was young, he saw a plane up close for the first time when it dropped off supplies at his family’s remote bush camp. He was instantly hooked.

Freddie has flown for nearly seventy years, doing everything from supply runs to search and rescue to transporting dog teams to far-flung areas.

This book celebrates Freddie’s early dreams of flying and his later achievements. Readers move with Freddie through the year, hearing about his journey as a pilot and leader, while learning the names of the months in Gwich’in and Inuvialuktun at the same time. Art from Inuvialuit painter Audrea Loreen-Wulf perfectly captures the incredible Western Arctic as well as Freddie’s love for aviation.

Reviews
"The story of an Indigenous boy who dreamed of taking to the sky unfolds across the year in this picture-book biography that draws on Gwich’in language, the power of an unshakable passion, and, as rendered in the gorgeous painted illustrations, the beauty of nature." —Booklist

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.

Additional Information
32 pages | 11.31" x 8.25" | Hardcover

Illustrated with stunning cut paper art, these seven poetic vignettes capture true stories of courage, hope, and resilience from around the world.

In Imagine A Garden, award-winning children's author Rina Singh shares seven real-life stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things for their communities amidst war, poverty, and violence.

With vivid, textured images from celebrated Iranian illustrator Hoda Hadadi, this powerful picture book is:

• A celebration of everyday heroes and how they make their communities a better place.
• A teaching tool for facilitating difficult but hopeful conversations about conflict in our world, and the people who are making a difference in their own way

For kids ages 6 to 10, Imagine A Garden reimagines our complex world through the lens of love and compassion.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 10.

Additional Information
44 pages | 9.00" x 9.00"

Métis writer and educator Nikki Soliman walks children through the importance of mental health and wellness in Magnificent Magnetic Me. This book examines the importance of embracing the tools needed to stay positive. It teaches about the power of thoughts and words and the energy we attract.

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 5 to 8.

Additional Information
32 Pages | Paperback

What if a school's mascot is seen as racist, but not by everyone? In this compelling middle-grade novel in verse, two best-selling BIPOC authors tackle this hot-button issue.

Six kids. One mascot. Who wins?

In Rye, Virginia, just outside Washington, DC, people work hard, kids go to school, and football is big on Friday nights. An eighth-grade English teacher creates an assignment for her class to debate whether Rye’s mascot should stay or change. Now six middle schoolers–-all with different backgrounds and beliefs–-get involved in the contentious issue that already has the suburb turned upside down with everyone choosing sides and arguments getting ugly. 

Told from several perspectives, readers see how each student comes to new understandings about identity, tradition, and what it means to stand up for real change.

Reviews
"Waters and Sorell (Cherokee Nation) join forces to write about the power of being true to oneself.

In a middle school in Rye, a fictional town near Washington, D.C., a racist mural and offensive pep rally chants shock new student Callie Crossland, who is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and African American. Callie shares a heartfelt poem with her seventh grade honors English class, reminding everyone that the “stupid tomahawk-chop chant” and the “cheap chicken-feather headdress” are nothing less than symbols of “white supremacy.” Afterward, Ms. Williams, her teacher, assigns a persuasive writing and oration project entitled “Pros and Cons of Indigenous Peoples as Mascots.” The small, broadly diverse group of students is assigned to work in pairs; Callie is matched with Franklin, who is Black and a proud fan of the Rye Braves football team. Franklin insists, “I wish we could Lysol racism away. / It’s a bad odor,” but he feels conflicted: “I still don’t think our mascot is racist though. It brings so much joy. / …what’s the big deal?” This clever novel unfolds in poems told in multiple voices showing the wide range of students’, families’, and community responses to the controversy; for some, initial feelings of opposition, hesitation, or indifference change and friendships are tested. The compelling, highly relevant subject matter and accessible text invite readers to understand different perspectives and witness individual growth.

A brilliant story not to be missed; deeply engaging from the first page. (glossary, additional information and resources) (Verse fiction. 10-14)" —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Told via seven alternating narratives, this ripped-from-the-headlines collaboration in verse by Waters (African Town) and Cherokee Nation member Sorrel (One Land, Many Nations) follows a fictional town’s division over a racist sports mascot. Callie Crossland, who is Cherokee and Black, has just transferred to a middle school in Rye, Va. She immediately expresses disgust at her school’s mascot, a “copper-toned, muscled, loincloth-clad, tomahawk-wielding” caricature of an Indigenous person. Callie’s English teacher Ms. Williams soon assigns a group writing project regarding the “Pros and Cons of Indigenous Peoples as Mascots,” and Callie is annoyed at being paired with Black classmate Franklin, who believes the mascot “brings so much joy.” Waters and Sorrel paint a complex portrait of the differing reactions toward the controversy by layering the racially diverse tweens’ perspectives and showcasing the effects the event has on their individual relationships and the community beyond their school. The creators eschew judgment to present a well-rounded discussion about classism and racism, as well as effective allyship, with compassion and understanding. A glossary and resources conclude. Ages 10–up." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Ms. Williams tasks her... honors English students with a persuasive writing and oral presentation assignment arguing the pros and cons of using Indige-nous peoples as mascots. Throughout the course of a school year the story unfolds in a series of poems that detail the per-spectives of six students: Callie (Cherokee African), Franklin (African American), Priya (Indian American), Luis (Salvadoran American), Tessa (white and previously homeschooled), and Sean (working-class white). Predictably, Callie, Priya, and Tessa (who sees herself as a committed antiracist) oppose Indigenous mascots, while the boys, who enjoy war paint and tomahawk chops at Rye Braves games, claim the mascot de-picts pride in the team and their school. While the discord around the mascot is a long-standing one in the Virginia community, the assignment empowers the students to take the issue to the school board. After further research, one student switches sides, losing a friend in the process. While the plot requires a fair amount of exposition detailing history and arguments on both sides, the characters are well developed and believable, and the story flows smoothly. A valuable classroom pick that demonstrates the importance of debate." —Booklist

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 10+

Includes a glossary and additional resources / information.

Subjects / Themes: Discrimination, Different Perspectives, Identity, Tradition, Standing up for Change, Social Responsibility, Verse Fiction / Poetry

Additional Information
256 pages | 5.75" x 8.56" | Hardcover

US Poet Laureate Joy Harjo’s iconic poem "Remember," illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade, invites young readers to pause and reflect on the wonder of the world around them, and to remember the importance of their place in it.

Remember the sky you were born under,
Know each of the star's stories.
Remember the moon, know who she is.
Remember the sun's birth at dawn,
That is the strongest point of time.

So begins the picture book adaptation of the renowned poem that encourages young readers to reflect on family, nature, and their heritage. In simple and direct language, Harjo, a member of the Mvskoke Nation, urges readers to pay close attention to who they are, the world they were born into, and how all inhabitants on earth are connected. Michaela Goade, drawing from her Tlingit culture, has created vivid illustrations that make the words come alive in an engaging and accessible way.

This timeless poem paired with magnificent paintings makes for a picture book that is a true celebration of life and our human role within it.

Reviews
"A contemplative, visually dazzling masterpiece that will resonate even more deeply each time it is read."—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Additional Information
40 pages | 9.94" x 10.81" | Hardcover

As a child of two military parents, Deb Haaland moved around a lot when she was young before finally settling in Albuquerque to be near family. But she persisted, studying hard and eventually earning a law degree. An enrolled member of the Pueblo Laguna nation, Deb was one of the first two Native American women to be elected to Congress, where she represented New Mexico's 1st District. In 2021, when the Senate confirmed her as President Biden's secretary of the interior, she became the first Native American in history to become a cabinet secretary. She continues to break barriers and inspire future generations to dream of greater opportunities.

In this chapter book biography by acclaimed author Laurel Goodluck, readers learn about the amazing life of Deb Haaland--and how she persisted.

Complete with an introduction from Chelsea Clinton, black-and-white illustrations throughout, and a list of ways that readers can follow in Deb Haaland's footsteps and make a difference! A perfect choice for kids who love learning and teachers who want to bring inspiring women into their curriculum.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

This book is part of the She Persisted series, a chapter book series about women who spoke up and rose up against the odds.

Additional Information
96 pages | 5.31" x 7.63" | B&W Interior Illustrations | Paperback

A magical mirror helps a young girl understand her true beauty in this new picture book from the creators of Nibi’s Water Song.

When Challa comes home in tears after being teased about her smile, her mom gives her a special gift. It’s a magic mirror — shiny, beaded and beautiful — passed on from her mom, and from her djo djo before her.

Challa’s mom tells her that when anyone looks into the mirror, they will see their true self. There’s just one rule: Everyone has to say what they see in the reflection.

At first the mirror seems to work for everyone but her. Challa keeps looking and looking. The more beauty she sees in herself, the happier she feels, and the longer she looks into the mirror, the more beauty she sees, until finally Challa sees so much beauty, she can't contain her smile!

This special story, from award-winning activist Sunshine Quem Tenasco and artist Chief Lady Bird, introduces readers to concepts of self-acceptance, self-empowerment, and recognition of the unique beauty that comes from within.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

This book is available in French here: Un si beau sourire

Additional Information
32 pages | 9.78" x 9.83" | Hardcover

An inspiring true story about how an activist in the Amazon worked with other Indigenous communities to protect and preserve their sacred lands and forests.

Patricia (Paty) Gualinga grew up in her Kichwa village in the Amazon of Ecuador where mystical beings called Amazanga help protect the forest. Paty traveled away from home for school until she was called back—companies that said the government sold them property were destroying her people’s lands to look for oil. The Kichwa community worked with other Indigenous groups to bring the Ecuadorian government to the Court of Human Rights.

Lyrically told and beautifully illustrated, this moving story will remind readers of the importance of nature conservation, perseverance, and standing up for your community.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

Additional Information
40 pages | 7.87" x 11.00" | Hardcover

Andy has had a rough school year and is ready for summer vacation. But when Grandpa Rick tells him that he will be participating in a canoe journey instead of enjoying his usual summer activities, Andy feels he is being punished.

Join Andy as he experiences a Tribal Canoe Journey for the first time and learns what it’s like to belong to a canoe family. Follow along as Andy navigates physical and emotional challenges and finds an answer to the important question: “Who am I?”

Awards

• 2024-2025 Hackmatack Children's Choice Award Shortlisted 

Reviews
“Andy's Tribal Canoe Journey is a fantastic book to use for reading groups. We were able to have amazing discussions.… Students loved the pictures and the story. I hope to read this with as many students as possible.” – Holly Polischuk, Cayoosh Elementary School educator 

"This graphic novel highlights how First Peoples connect to their culture and honour their past. The first-hand perspectives of participants in the 2019 journey help showcase the human emotions and physical challenges it involves. Teachers across elementary and secondary levels can use this short graphic novel as a read-aloud in a classroom or literature circles to help students learn about Tribal Canoe Journeys. Students could also be invited to explore their own traditions and experiences, and the art in the book could inspire projects that are based on the illustrations in this story." – Focused Education Resources 

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 3 to 8.

Additional Information
72 Pages | 8" x 10" | Paperback | ISBN: 978-1-77174-600-7

The online world has real dangers, but girls around the world are using social media to create positive change and practice good digital citizenship.

You've probably seen media stories about the ways girls interact online, with headlines like "Depression in Girls Linked to Higher Use of Social Media," or "Half of Girls Are Bullied on Social Media." Better Connected focuses on the less-recognized and positive aspects of the online experiences of girls. From environmental activism to gun control, immigration policy to education access, girls are leading the way. They're showing up, teaming up and speaking up. With profiles of real changemakers and practical tools for getting started, Better Connected is an inspiring look at the amazing things girls can accomplish online.

Reviews
“Will provide [readers] with inspiration and resources...Adult readers, both teacher and parents, who are sometimes dismissive of, or dismayed by, the amount of time their students or children are spending on social media, can learn about the positive aspects of those online experiences. Recommended.” — CM: Canadian Review of Materials

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12. 

This book is part of the Orca Think series.

Contains some, but limited, Indigenous content.

Additional Information
102 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover 

When he is gifted a handmade drum by his mother, Ren learns the teachings of the drum that she also passes down to him. Ren discovers that through this special drum, he is able to connect to his culture and find a confidence in his voice to joyfully share in singing the traditional songs of his Nuu-chah-nulth Nation.

Reviews
“A beautifully told story that shows the power of song and ceremony for our people. As well as the importance of family in the passing of traditions and the unconditional love and support each member of the family gives. A truly inspiring story for our youth to learn the songs of their families and nations.” - Tiffany Adams, Nlaka’pamux, Indigenous Educator

Educator Information
A Teacher Lesson Plan is available HERE!

This resource is available in French: Joue du tambour avec coeur

An adaptation of this book for children ages 4 to 6 is available: Teachings of the Drum

Additional Information
34 pages | 8.50" x 11.00" | Paperback

In her debut picture book, professional Indigenous dancer Ria Thundercloud tells the true story of her path to dance and how it helped her take pride in her Native American heritage.

At four years old, Ria Thundercloud was brought into the powwow circle, ready to dance in the special jingle dress her mother made for her. As she grew up, she danced with her brothers all over Indian country. Then Ria learned more styles--tap, jazz, ballet--but still loved the expressiveness of Indigenous dance. And despite feeling different as one of the only Native American kids in her school, she always knew she could turn to dance to cheer herself up.

Follow along as Ria shares her dance journey--from dreaming of her future to performing as a professional--accompanied by striking illustrations that depict it while bringing her graceful movements to life.

Reviews
"A warmly illustrated memoir of dance and culture, this will have broad appeal about using art for expression and to overcome difficulties." —School Library Journal, starred review

"A moving picture book about the resilience one can find in one’s cultural inheritance." —Kirkus Reviews

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Additional Information
40 pages | 10.44" x 10.31" | Hardcover 

A beautifully illustrated collection of inspiring life stories of fifty extraordinary historical women from BC and the Yukon.

This fascinating, informative, and charming book introduces young readers to a diverse group of women who changed the face of history in unexpected ways and defied the expectations and gender norms of their times. Through charming illustrations and concise biographies, Her Courage Rises features social activists and politicians, artists and writers, scientists and healers, pioneers and prospectors, athletes and entrepreneurs, teachers and cultural tradition keepers.

These women represented all ages, walks of life, and backgrounds. Some, like Cougar Annie and shipwreck heroine Minnie Paterson, became legendary in popular culture, long after their deaths. Others, like politician Rosemary Brown, artist Emily Carr, and Olympic sprinter Barbara Howard, achieved fame during their lives. Still others, including photographer and cultural teacher Elizabeth Quocksister, artist and cultural consultant Florence Edenshaw, land claims activist and translator Jane Constance Cook (Ga’axsta’las), and language champion Barbara Touchie, made great strides in preserving and promoting Indigenous rights and cultures. And many, like environmentalist Ruth Masters, water diviner Evelyn Penrose, and Doukhobor pioneer Anna Markova, are less well-known but still made important contributions to their communities and our wider collective history.

Her Courage Rises is full of inspirational female role models and insights into the trailblazing women who made history in BC and the Yukon.

Reviews
"[An] extra-textual approach blended with rigorous traditional research allowed Healey and Fraser to create a fresh and unique historical document – one that not only gives fascinating detail, but manages to capture an ineffable humanity and relatability in even the most exceptional people profiled."
Quill & Quire

“This easily approachable book is a celebration of the achievements of fifty women who had the determination and strength of character to fashion new directions, sometimes despite great odds. Their stories represent hope and courage and serve as a reminder that women have always played a defining role in shaping their societies.”—Cathy Converse, author of Following the Curve of Time and Against the Current: The Remarkable Life of Agnes Deans Cameron

"Haley Healey has written another very important book highlighting the achievements of many women in history. This short book, beautifully illustrated by Kimiko Fraser, will be one to treasure in your favourite historical non-fiction collection."—Valerie Green, historian and author of If More Walls Could Talk: Vancouver Island’s Houses from the Past

“An engaging book that encourages the interest of young readers by providing a factual way in to explore diverse lives. By reframing unorthodox lives and breaking down stereotypes, the author highlights the resilience and determination of her subjects, made more tangible through the illustrations.”—Linda J. Eversole, author of Victoria Unbuttoned: A Red-Light History of BC's Capital City and Stella: Unrepentant Madam

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 12+ 

Additional Information
128 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover 

Dear Jean,
I had a substitute teacher recently. He stood up for a girl wearing a cedar hat when she was told to take it off by the vice-principal…

Even though Jean and Michael come from different cultural backgrounds and live far apart, they are best friends. To keep in touch, they write letters. Read their letters to discover what Jean and Michael do when they see and experience racial prejudice in their communities.

I Wish You Were Here is based on the authors' childhood experiences as pen pals in Haida Gwaii and Terrace in northern British Columbia. The book explores themes of friendship, culture, family, and community. It also addresses some tough issues, such as racism and intolerance, and explores ways to respond proactively. Included are resources and discussion questions to encourage further learning and reflection.

Reviews
“This lovely book explores healthy strategies for addressing racism and discrimination, including ceremonies, art, and intercultural allies. It is necessary reading for fostering the reconciliation and Indigenous resurgence that is imperative for our collective growth and enlightenment.” – Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson, musician, author, activist, artist, and lawyer 

“This book helps us to empower our children and each other in the important work of recognizing, talking about, and working through acts of racism.” – Severn Cullis-Suzuki, lifelong activist for intergenerational justice 

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 3 to 7.

This middle-grade picture book includes discussion questions, a glossary, and additional resources for further learning and reflection.

Curriculum Connections & Keywords: Reconciliation, Indigenous Education, Social Awareness and Responsibility, Social Studies, Allyship, Racism, Anti-Racism, Discrimination, Social Justice, Racial Injustice, Haida, Haida Gwaii, Gwaii Haanas National Park, Tsimshian, Terrace, Letter Writing, Pen Pals, Friendship, Diversity, Child Empowerment, Advocacy, Inclusivity.

This book provides readers the opportunity to look at racism and discrimination through two different cultural lenses.  It's a teaching tool to initiate conversations about issues such as racism, discrimination, and reconciliation.

In the video below, Erica Jean Reid Gidin Jaad shares how to pronounce Haida and Tsimshian words in I Wish You Were Here.

Additional Information
32 Pages | 6.5" x 9.5" | Hardcover | ISBN: 9781771745727