Browse Books for Kids

Based on a viral article, 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act is the essential guide to understanding the legal document and its repercussion on generations of Indigenous Peoples, written by a leading cultural sensitivity trainer.

Since its creation in 1876, the Indian Act has shaped, controlled, and constrained the lives and opportunities of Indigenous Peoples, and is at the root of many enduring stereotypes. Bob Joseph’s book comes at a key time in the reconciliation process, when awareness from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities is at a crescendo. Joseph explains how Indigenous Peoples can step out from under the Indian Act and return to self-government, self-determination, and self-reliance—and why doing so would result in a better country for every Canadian. He dissects the complex issues around truth and reconciliation, and clearly demonstrates why learning about the Indian Act’s cruel, enduring legacy is essential for the country to move toward true reconciliation.

Reviews
"Increasing Canadians' knowledge about the terrible foundation this country has been built on is a critical part of reconciliation. Bob Joseph has highlighted some of the unbelievable provisions of the Indian Act and how they have impacted First Nations in Canada and gives a brief overview of what we may replace it with going forward. His book provides helpful context to the dialogue that needs to take place in Canada." — Kim Baird, O.C., O. B. C.; Owner, Kim Baird Strategic Consulting; Member of the Tsawwassen First Nation; Negotiator of the Tsawwassen First Nation Treaty

"From declaring cultural ceremonies illegal, to prohibiting pool hall owners from granting Indigenous people entrance, from forbidding the speaking of Indigenous languages, to the devastating policy that created residential schools, Bob Joseph reveals the hold this paternalistic act, with its roots in the 1800s, still has on the lives of Indigenous people in Canada in the 21st century. This straightforward book is an invaluable resource. There is much for non-Indigenous people to learn and to do. But equally important, there is much to unlearn and to undo. The time is right for this book. Thank you, Bob Joseph. Gilakasla." — Shelagh Rogers, O.C.; Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Honourary Witness

"Bob’s ability to navigate the complex history of the Indian Act is a wonder to behold. He provides depth and knowledge for Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars alike. Whether you are an Indigenous scholar or a neophyte, his articulate, insightful and comprehensive analysis on the history of the Indian Act provides a sound understanding on the present narrative of Indigenous peoples in Canada. By way of the Indian Act, this book provides an excellent analysis of the ongoing relationship and predicament between provincial and federal governments and Indigenous peoples in the 21st century." — JP Gladu, President and CEO of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business

Educator Information
Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2019-2020 resource list as being useful for grades 4-12 and as a teacher resource in these subject areas: English Language Arts and Social Studies.

Additional Information
160 pages | 5.22" x 8.05"

Peyton loves to dance, and especially at Pow Wow, but her Auntie notices that she’s been dancing less and less. When Peyton shares that she isn't comfortable wearing a dress anymore, Auntie Eyota asks some friends for help to get Peyton what she needs.

Reviews
"How do you stay true to yourself when you don’t feel like you fit in? In 47,000 Beads, young Peyton discovers the power of family, culture, and community as she uncovers the very special role she has as a Two-Spirit person.... Full of colorful, intricate illustrations, this picturebook captures the necessary care, attention, and tiospaye (extended family) support that goes into the creation of the jingle dance regalia. Against this specific context, the book celebrates everyone’s unique identity. The authors reject colonized ideas of gender by using the singular pronoun “they” throughout the book. 47,000 Beads celebrates the resilience of Two-Spirit peoples despite decades of stigmatization and trauma as a result of the oppression of Indigenous peoples in the settler-colonial culture. It is rare, but enlivening, to see a picture book that successfully depicts the continuum of gender identity and expression in a Native community. It is liberating to see a book that frames gender fluid identities as reasons to celebrate." - Emma Heckel, Children's Literature @ UMN

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.

Additional Information
28 pages | 10.75" x 8.25" | Paperback

Let them go outside and play! More parents are heeding the advice of specialists who urge them to do just that. By playing outside with friends, kids learn valuable interpersonal and negotiation skills and how to make decisions. Outdoor play teaches about the natural world, fosters creativity, and encourages physical activity.

101 Things For Kids To Do Outside is ideal for parents, teachers, and all those working with youth. This book is ideal for the children who like gaming, TV, movies, the soft couch, and even too many snacks. The kids who believe "there's nothing to do outside" can learn and be encouraged to experience the joy of outdoor play.

Each activity is described in language easy for a 6- to 9-year-old and illustrated with engaging graphics. Younger children may need direction, at least the first time. Large pictures display all the fun to be had. The activities range from 10 minutes to hours and hours of fun. Some require creativity, make-believe or physical exertion but they are all outside. Perfect for rainy days, sunshiny days, even snowy days.

Examples of the 101 activities are:
Weave a bird's nest
Set up a potion lab
Make nature rubbings
Build a crawl tunnel
Hold a mini Olympics
Build a human sundial
Make a nature walk bracelet
Capture animal tracks
Fly a homemade kite
Make a rain gauge
Make a snow maze.

Reviews
While the cover art is adorable, the photos inside are stunning! This book is full of creative, easy, and original ideas that your kids will adore.
— MaryAnne, Mama Smiles Blog

Great gift for any child... Would also be resourceful to any parent, teacher or caregivers... Plenty of fun ideas not only for children, but for families to enjoy together. And the most important thing -- with 101 Things For Kids To Do Outside, your kids will never be bored again.
— Lily Zunic, Craft, Learn and Play Blog

The hands-on guide, 101 Things for Kids to Do Outside, gives you more than enough activities, games and projects to get your children or students moving and learning in the great outdoors. Colorful illustrations and photographs combine with detailed and easy to follow instructions in order to spark lots of outdoor exploration... This book is great for parents and educators, but also for young people ages 5-12 to lead their own explorations.
— Raine Sillito, Green Teacher

Additional Information
224 pages | 8.25" x 8.50" | full colour throughout, line drawings, resources, index

This book provides a wonderful way to learn about First Nations cultures while counting! The traditional teachings are interesting and informative. Counting concepts, from numbers 1 to 21, promote harmony and goodwill.

Educator Information
The 1234 book gives children a chance to count while learning about Indigenous Peoples from across Turtle Island.  

Additional Information
45 Pages | 11” x 8.5”

There are 21 activities for children to complete in this activity book. From 3 tipis to 12 Eagle feathers in a feather fan, children will draw, cut, paste, and create!

Educator Information
This activity book pairs with the 1234 First Nations Explore book.  

Additional Information
23 Pages | 8.5” x 11”