Your cart is currently empty!
Five Books for I Read Canadian Day
I Read Canadian Day celebrates great Canadian books and underscores the importance of reading from an early age. We’re joining in on this special day by highlighting five fab reads for young people plus a list packed with a whole lot more—sure to fill shelves and growing imaginations alike.
The Moon King, written and illustrated by Cara Kansala
(Breakwater Books)
Cara Kansala’s beautifully self-illustrated children’s book, written in verse, introduces us to The Moon King, who after turning the night upside down must enlist the help of earth’s sleepy critters to recover the stars that have scattered over land and sea, back to their rightful place in the sky. With a swirling palette of blues and greens, this bedtime story delivers a sweet send-off into dreamland.
Barefoot Helen and the Giants by Andy Jones
illustrated by Katie Brosnan (Running the Goat)
Raised by bears, Helen feels most at home in the woods. She’s handy with a slingshot, and while her feet might be hairy, they sure are quick! But not quite quick enough to avoid being captured by one of the three evil giants she discovers after stumbling upon their castle. Forced to help the giant in his plot to kidnap the princess Antoinette, Helen successfully whisks her away in her sleep AND manages to do away with the giant before heading back to her quiet home in the woods. Who could this giant-killing hero be? Antoinette and her father are determined to find out.
Sus Yoo/The Bear’s Medicine by Clayton Gauthier, translated by Danny Alexis & Theresa Austin (Theytus Books)
For the kiddos who love animals, this one comes with a special message about survival and being grateful for all that nature provides. Passed down with love from mother bear to her cubs, this story shows us in heartfelt detail all that the seasons bring in blessings and the interconnectedness of all things. Told in dual language, the book offers both the English and Dakelh translations, and features Clayton Gauthier’s own vibrant illustrations.
The Name I Call Myselfby Hasan Namir, illustrated by Cathryn John (Arsenal Pulp Press)
This moving picture book begins with Ari, a young person, as they grow-up into adolescence while navigating their personal identity. Preferring not be called by their birth name, Ari grows up enjoying dolls, princess movies, smooth skin and long hair—all things contrary to their father’s ideas on how a boy is “supposed” to be. Ari’s solitary gender journey is the story of finding new life, unconditional love and self-acceptance.* * *
Want more great reading recommendations for children and young adults? Check out our full I Read Canadian Day book list >>
