Browse Books for Kids

This fascinating book introduces readers to the life, career, and impact of soccer star Madison Hammond. The book also includes a "Topic Spotlight" special feature, several "Did You Know" facts, a table of contents, quiz questions, a glossary, additional resources, and an index.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

This book is part of the Indigenous Biographies series. 

Additional Information
32 Pages | Paperback

This fascinating book introduces readers to the life, work, and legacy of prima ballerina Maria Tallchief. The book also includes a "Topic Spotlight" special feature, several "Did You Know" facts, a table of contents, quiz questions, a glossary, additional resources, and an index.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

This book is part of the Indigenous Biographies series. 

Additional Information
32 Pages | Paperback

Maddy’s Sash, by Marion Gonneville, with illustrations by Kate Boyer, is the story of a young girl who connects with her Métis roots while she spends time with her Moshôm, Kohkom and their special dog Max. Maddy has many adventures at her grandparents’ farm in northern Saskatchewan, including an exciting berry picking adventure, a dramatic canoe trip, and a rollicking barn dance.

Reviews
"Maddy’s Sash is a wonderful read-aloud for classrooms, especially when exploring Métis culture and heritage. When Maddy visits her moshôm and kôhkom (her grandpa and grandma), she learns about her family’s roots by joining in cultural activities that are part of their daily life. Maddy bonds with a big Newfoundland dog named Max and helps care for a newborn chick on the farm. As the visit unfolds, she makes new friends and takes part in a traditional Métis barn dance, where she learns to jig with the guidance of her grandparents. This heartwarming story celebrates the joy of simple living, the importance of caring for others, and the richness of Métis traditions. It’s an ideal read for students in grades 2-5." - Debra H., Elementary School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Chapter book.

This title is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 2 to 5 for English Language Arts, Dance, and Social Studies.

Additional Information
10 Chapters: 88 pages | Hardcover 

A la recherche de buissons de baies, Nala se perd, seule dans la forêt ! Heureusement, Mama Sasquatch entend ses cris et veille sur elle toute la nuit. Le lendemain, Nala apprend comment et pourquoi Mama et Bébé Sasquatch vivent dans la forêt, loin des gens.

Une histoire à la fois charmante et apaisante pour les jeunes enfants, Mama Sasquatch présente des illustrations peintes envoutantes de l?artiste et autrice Eva Swift, de la nation Ditidaht.

Educator Information
Recommended for Grades 3 and under.

This book is available in English: Mama Sasquatch.

Additional Information
7.00" x 10.00" | Paperback

A decodable book featuring four phonics stories for striving readers, with special features to help children with dyslexia or other language-based learning difficulties find reading success.

Join Meg, Greg and friends on vacation where they throw a birthday party on a train, rescue a sheep from a creek, volunteer for a wild night in the circus and compete in a rowboat race. Plus, take a peek at a few of Greg's vacation photos in a bonus mini story!

Reviews
“The ‘Meg and Greg’ series continue to deliver valuable phonics instruction through engaging stories. The series offers a rare and much-needed resource for children with dyslexia. The adult-child team reading approach is innovative and makes this series a valuable addition to any collection, particularly for libraries supporting diverse reading needs." - School Library Journal (SLJ) Series Made Simple

“While Meg and Greg: Train Day! is designed as a decodable book, the humour, the problem solving, and the variety of characters, together with entertaining graphics and the chapter book format, will appeal to all children in grades 2 to 4. Once the format is explained to the child and proficient reading partner, both readers will enjoy a fun, engaging reading journey together. Highly recommended.”- CM: Canadian Review of Materials

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

Meg and Greg: Train Day! is the sixth book in the Meg and Greg series designed for shared reading between a child learning to read and an experienced reader. The four stories inside (plus a bonus mini story!) introduce long vowels using vowel teams (long a: ai, ay, a, a-e; long e: ee, ea, e, y, e-e; long i: igh, ild, ind, i, y, i-e; long o: oa, ow, old, oll, olt, ost, o, o-e; long u: ue, ew, u, u-e). In addition to the familiar comic-style kids’ pages, highly controlled and decodable prose pages gently increase the amount of text that readers experience and provide even more opportunities to practice the reading skills previously introduced in Meg and Greg Books 1–5.

Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient: L
Lexile measure: 460L
Guided Reading Level: L

Additional Information
160 pages | 5.87" x 8.25" | Paperback

The Mi'kmaq nation are mainly located in the eastern portion of what is now Canada. Discover more about this resilient nation from a member of the peoples.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for grades 3 to 6.

This book is part of the Indigenous Peoples (Real Voices) series. Indigenous Peoples have inhabited the land we now know as North America long before the arrival of European explorers. Learn what makes each Nation unique by learning about their culture, daily life, celebrations and more. Explore the Indigenous experience past and present written by authentic voices.

Additional Information
24 Pages | 9" x 9" | Paperback

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 

A beautifully illustrated book that gently explores the complicated feelings a young girl experiences as she learns about tragedy and injustice.

Miya loves her school and she especially loves storytime. One day, her teacher shares a story about a little girl who was taken away to a residential school. The little girl wasn’t allowed to go home. Her hair was cut and she wasn’t allowed to keep her favourite doll. She was taken away from her family because she was Indigenous, just like Miya!

Miya worries the same thing will happen to her. Her mom tells her that Indigenous girls and boys aren’t forced to leave their families anymore. Miya is relieved, but she is still sad. What can she do about these feelings?

Reviews
"A moving and important story that deftly explores the fear a little Indigenous girl feels when she learns the truth about residential schools. Miya finds solace in her mom’s words, and readers will too. A sensitive explanation of residential schools that prioritizes the emotional safety of all readers, especially Indigenous children."— Jen Moss, lecturer at UBC's School of Creative Writing

"opens the door to an important discussion about residential schools" - School Library Journal 

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.

In this story, a young girl named Miya feels scared and sad after learning about residential schools, but she learns how to cope with the help of her mother. 

A gentle story about big feelings and finding courage.

Big Ideas: Social-Emotional Learning: Emotions and Feelings; Social Justice: Intergenerational Trauma, Residential Schools.

This book is available in French: Le Chandail orange de Miya.

Additional Information
40 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Hardcover 

Cuddle up with this celebration of winter and explore the wonders of nature’s light with Moon Song from Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade.

On an island at the edge of a silvery sea, when the moon rises and night falls, a girl spins a story for her worried cousin to help him find comfort in the wintery dark. She invites him to see moonlight glittering in the forest, bioluminescence sparkling by the shore, and northern lights blazing in the sky. In the dark of the night, the whole world sings.

Celebrated Tlingit creator Michaela Goade, who brought us a summer's celebration in the Caldecott Honor Award‑winning Berry Song, invites us to discover the wonder and comfort of a winter's night through a magnificent Moon Song.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Additional Information
40 pages | 9.00" x 11.75" | Hardcover 

Have you ever considered Mother Earth to be an artist? A shiny rock, the guiding tracks of a bird, a colourful sunset - what beauty do you see on Mother Earth?

Award-winning Indigenous author, CBC journalist, and Poet Laureate of Saskatchewan (2021-2023) Carol Rose GoldenEagle brings readers a radiant tribute to the artwork within the everyday. Paired with stunning illustrations by Hawlii Pichette, Mother Earth: My Favourite Artist encourages us to share in the simple wonder of nature, and honour the precious magnificence of Mother Earth and all of our relatives.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5+.

A teacher lesson plan is available: Mother Earth: My Favourite Artist Teacher Lesson Plan

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

From the winner of the New York Times Best Illustrated Book Prize and the American Indian Youth Literature Award

I’d like to tell you a rather true story about a big black cat who started out gray. Her name was May.

Margaux and her cat May became friends when Margaux was just six years old. They grew up together, sharing countless memories along the way. But one day, May is late coming home. Where is May? Is she under the porch? Maybe on the roof?

Margaux’s nitôsis (the Cree word for auntie) helps search for May in the tall grass. But soon nitôsis needs to leave: she’s moving away to the big city, and has to pack her things into boxes. Margaux helps nitôsis, but she can’t take her mind off May. Will she ever return? nitôsis is worried, too. But little do they know, May has a surprise in store for both of them!

This fun and heartwarming story with a surprise happy ending invites readers to share their own cat stories. My Friend May is a tribute to love and the balance between all beings, and the experiences and emotions that connect us all.

My Friend May features:

• A glossary of Cree words used throughout the book
• Backmatter content that includes a pronunciation guide

Reviews
"A quiet yet affectionate tribute to familial relationships of all stripes….Cat lovers… will particularly enjoy this sweet tale."—Kirkus Reviews

"From a talented picture book creator….Readers can reflect on great stories of their own encounters with beloved animal friends and share their tales with others….delightful.”—School Library Journal

"Award-winning author Julie Flett has created another beautiful story, perfect for read-alouds in kindergarten to grade three classrooms.... This heartwarming tale gently explores themes of love, loss, and reunion. With Flett’s signature artwork and tender storytelling, My Friend May will resonate with readers of all ages and spark connections to their own stories of friendship and change." -  Debra H., Elementary School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

This title is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC as a recommended resource for K to 3 English Language Arts.

Additional Information
40 pages | 11.00" x 9.00" | 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 

What will Monica see and learn when she visits a new community?

Monica is visiting her aunt Peesee in Kimmirut, Nunavut. There are many wonderful things to see and do there. Monica is excited to explore and learn about her aunt's community. Join Monica and Peesee as they go clam digging, visit waterfalls, and see the tallest trees on Baffin Island in this bilingual picture book!

Reviews
"In the story, Monica shares about visiting her aunt in Kimmirut. At the beginning of the story, she explains that the village was renamed with its traditional name (Kimmirut) from its settler name (Lake Harbour). Different cultural elements are explored: resources, arts, food, activities, and land features. As well, there is an exploration of the seasons through images, contrasting the end of summer and winter. Teachers can point out to the students that with the exception of two pages, there are no trees on the landscape. This would be a good introduction to biomes and an inquiry into the arctic tundra. While the book is written for younger students, older students could benefit from the story and extend their learning by engaging in an inquiry project about the traditional Inuktitut names that are increasingly used in Nunavut in an effort to decolonize place names. For instance, Baffin Island’s traditional Inuktitut name is Qikiqtaaluk." - Alethea S., Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

Dual-language: English and Inuktitut

This book is part of the Community Connections series.

This title is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC, recommended for K-5 English Language Arts and Social Studies. 

Additional Information
23 pages | 8.00" x 9.00" | Paperback

Un plan de lecon de l'enseignant pour approfondir le livre, Ma petite Ogichidaa. Peut inclure des questions de compréhension, des activités de groupe, des amorces de conversation, des quiz, des activités d’arts du langage et des pages à colorier. L’histoire Ma petite Ogichidaa est inspirée par la maternité autochtone. Elle nous invite à découvrir les rêves et les espoirs fascinants d’une mère autochtone pour sa petite guerrière qui naîtra bientôt. Le mot Ogichidaa signifie guerrier/guerrière en anishinaabemowin et ce livre magnifiquement illustré rend hommage à toutes les familles autochtones qui élèvent fièrement leurs enfants pour qu’ils perpétuent leur culture, leur langue et leur amour avec résilience, force et gentillesse. Cette histoire réconfortante et inspirante célèbre l’amour autochtone et le puissant héritage qu’il crée.

Educator Information
Recommended for use with ages 7 to 10.

Find the student resource here: Ma petite Ogichidaa: une berceuse autochtone

This lesson plan is available in English: My Little Ogichidaa Teacher Lesson Plan

Additional Information
15 pages | 6.31" x 5.93" | Paper Packet

L’histoire Ma petite Ogichidaa est inspirée par la maternité autochtone. Elle nous invite à découvrir les rêves et les espoirs fascinants d’une mère autochtone pour sa petite guerrière qui naîtra bientôt. Le mot Ogichidaa signifie guerrier/guerrière en anishinaabemowin et ce livre magnifiquement illustré rend hommage à toutes les familles autochtones qui élèvent fièrement leurs enfants pour qu’ils perpétuent leur culture, leur langue et leur amour avec résilience, force et gentillesse. Cette histoire réconfortante et inspirante célèbre l’amour autochtone et le puissant héritage qu’il crée.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 7 to 10.

This book is available in English: My Little Ogichidaa: An Indigenous Lullaby

Find a lesson plan for this book here: Ma petite Ogichidaa Plan de cours

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.43" x 11.22" | Hardcover