AN ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY OF CANADIAN MULTICULTURAL PICTURE BOOKS
PUBLISHED SINCE 19901
Ingrid Johnston, Joyce Bainbridge, Mary Clare Courtland, Roberta Hammett, Anne Burke, Lynne Wiltse,
and Teresa Strong-Wilson
Ballantyne, E. (2001). The Aboriginal Alphabet for Children. Illustrated by J. M. Ross and N.
Head. Winnipeg: Pemmican Publications.
This book uses the illustrations from an alphabet book from the 1930s called A Canadian Child's
ABC. The contemporary text in verse accompanies the illustrations along with a simple quatrain
for each letter of the alphabet. There is also a set of slightly longer free-form poems, one for each
letter, at the end of the book. The black-and-white illustrations, by artist Thoreau MacDonald, are
of Canadian scenes. Readers will encounter geographic, historical and cultural themes in the text
that accompanies them.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol9/no10/aboriginalalphabet.html
Bannatyne-Cugnet, J. (1992). A Prairie Alphabet. Illustrated by Yvette Moore. Toronto, ON:
Tundra Books.
A Prairie Alphabet is a book that at first looks disarmingly simple, but it has many layers to
explore. Prairie children will need no encouragement. They will find the cat at the door of the
barn, the crow on the telephone pole and maybe even the garter snake hiding in the pebbles of a
roadway. (Written by Tundra Books)
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/cmarchive/vol20no6/revprariealphabet.html
Theme "Reflecting the Land" Resources:
http://www.collectionscanada.ca/abc/027001-300-e.html
Bannatyne-Cugnet, J. (2000). From Far and Wide: A Citizenship Scrapbook. Illustrated by S.
N. Zhang. Toronto, ON: Tundra Books.
This story is about a little girl’s memories of becoming a Canadian citizen. In her scrapbook, Xiao
Ling captures moments of becoming a citizen of Canada. From the recitation of the Oath of
Canadian Citizenship to the singing of the national anthem and the welcoming party afterward
with all of its tantalizing treats, the day is filled with memories for the new Canadians. This story
is a useful resource about the process of becoming a Canadian citizen.
CSC Resource Info: http://www.curriculum.org/csc/resources/farandwide.shtml
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm//vol7/no14/fromfar.html
1
This list is not comprehensive, but rather was created in association with a research project being
conducted by Ingrid Johnston and Joyce Bainbridge (UAlberta), Mary Clare Courtland (Lakehead U)
Roberta Hammett and Anne Burke (Memorial), Lynne Wiltse (Thompson Rivers), and Teresa StrongWilson (McGill)
Bear, G. (1991). Two Little Girls Lost in the Bush. Illustrated by J. Whitehead. Saskatoon: Fifth
House.
This story provides readers with an opportunity to hear the voice of Nêhiyaw/Glecia Bear, who
tells about an experience that happened to her many years ago when she was a little girl. When
she was eleven, and her sister was eight, she was given the responsibility of watching over a cow
that was about to have a calf. When the cow wandered into the densely forested wilderness, the
two children followed it. Alone, and without food or warm clothing, they tried to find their way
back home. This story shows the self-reliance, strength and wisdom of a little girl who comforts
her younger sister through their ordeal as they follow the owl, who eventually leads them back to
safety.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/cmarchive/vol20no4/twolostgirls.html
Bedard, M. (1999). Clay Ladies. Illustrated by L. Tait. Toronto, ON: Tundra Books.
Bedard's story is about a small girl who finds a wounded bird. She goes to the Church for help, a
place full of wonders and where she knows she’ll find the Clay Ladies. While nursing the
wounded bird back to health, the Clay Ladies teach the little girl about the magic of the sculptors’
art. Although the incident is imaginary, this story is based on the lives of artists Frances Loring
and Florence Wyle, both of whom sculpted with clay. Their works range from monumental
figures to miniatures of animals and children, and are displayed in parks and public galleries, and
in many private art collections all over the world.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm////vol6/no12/clayladies.html
Bouchard, D. (1993). If You’re Not from the Prairie. Illustrated by H. Ripplinger. Vancouver:
Raincoast Books & Summer Wild Productions.
Those born and raised on the prairies are passionate about their bittersweet experiences with this
diverse land. If You're Not from the Prairie is a visual and poetic journey back to those times and
the feelings they elicit. David Bouchard's text describes the power of the wind, the sweep of the
sky, and adventures in the cold. Henry Ripplinger's images are snapshots from the past - playing
hockey on the river, lying under the big sky in a field of swaying grass, wading in a spring pond.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/cmarchive/vol22no3/revfromprairie.html
Brouillet, C. (2001). Un Heros pour Hildegarde. Quebec: Musee du Quebec.
On Hildegarde’s twelfth birthday, her cousin Julie decides to tell her all the secrets of their
grandfather Emile’s adventurous life. As a young apprentice in a printing shop in Quebec, Emile
fell in love with Aurelie, the daughter of a rich client, who returned his love. Their respective
families would go on to break their bond as young Emile is forced to join a convent in France
rather than be without his beloved Aurelie. The Second World War erupts a short time later and
Emile enlists in the Resistance and prepares to leave for Dieppe. On the train trip, he embarks on
a final adventure that finally brings him home, and seals his destiny.
Description (in French): http://www.sdm.qc.ca/centre/bibliographies/lj01/nd/nA213198.html
Brownridge, W. R. (1995). The Moccasin Goalie. Illustrated by P. Montpellier. Victoria, BC: Orca
Books.
Danny lives in a small prairie community where he spends the winters playing hockey with his
three best friends; Anita, Petou and Marcel. Because of a crippled leg and foot, Danny cannot
wear skates, but tends goal in his moccasins. When a "real" uniformed hockey team is established
in the community, Danny and his friends are elated at the prospect of becoming members. Their
happiness is short lived, however, as Coach Matteau selects only Marcel for the team. “Girls don’t
play hockey, Petou is too small, and Danny can’t skate”, he says. When the Wolves' regular goalie
gets hurt just before an important game, Danny is recruited and defends the goal well. The
Wolves win the game and Danny agrees to become a permanent team member - but only with
the provision that Anita and Petou can become Wolves too.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol2/no6/moccasin.html
Butler, G. (1998). The Hangashore. Illustrated by the author. Toronto: Tundra Books.
This story is set in a tiny fishing village in Newfoundland. World War two has just ended and an
important magistrate has just arrived to represent the government. The magistrate demands
respect but does nothing to earn it from the residents of the village. In this village there is no
one more different from Magistrate Mercer than John Payne, the minister’s son. John and the
magistrate clash many times over the course of time, for John does not care for titles or
hierarchy; John judges people by their actions. Magistrate Mercer threatens to have John sent to
an institution because John has Down’s syndrome. John is made to feel somewhat of ‘a
hangashore’, a term unique to Newfoundland, which means an unlucky person deserving pity or a
worthless fellow who lacks the courage to fish. Readers learn about self-respect and acceptance
through John’s story.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm////vol5/no14/hangashore.html
Campbell, N. (2005). Shi-shi-etko. Illustrated by K. La Fave. Toronto, ON: Groundwood Books.
This is a compelling story about a little girl named Shi-shi-etko. As she counts down her last few
days before leaving for residential school, she tries to memorize everything about her home. Shishi-etko does everything in her power to remember the little things that are familiar to her - from
the sound of the wind whistling through the trees to the dancing sunlight and the tall grass. After
a family party to say good-bye, her father takes her out on the lake in a canoe and implores her
to remember the trees, the water, and the mountains. Her grandmother gives her a small bag
made of deer hide in which to keep her memories. The vivid, digital illustrations rely on a red
palette, evoking not only the land but also the sorrow of the situation and the hope upon which
the story ultimately ends.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol12/no9/shishietko.html
Carrier, R. (2004). The Flying Canoe. Illustrated by S. Cohen; Translated by S. Fischman. Toronto,
Ontario: Taundra Books.
On New Year’s Eve, 1847, eleven-year-old Baptiste finds himself far from his friends and family
and his home in La Beauce. He has come to the woods of the Ottawa Valley to live and work
among “the finest lumberjacks in Canada.” As the New Year approaches, Baptiste and the
lumberjacks grow more and more homesick. Resolved to see their families again before the stroke
of midnight, the crew board a magical canoe that lifts them into the air, across villages, and closer
to home. This retelling of the Quebecois folktale reunites Roch Carrier with illustrator Sheldon
Cohen and translator Sheila Fischman. This English version of the French text entitled La Chassegalerie is translated by Sheila Fischman.
Cheng, A. (2000). Grandfather Counts. Illustrated by A. Zhang. New York: Lee & Low Books.
Helen anxiously awaits the arrival of Gong Gong, her grandfather from China, who is coming to
live with her family. She is full of excitement but she also worries about how she will
communicate with her grandfather who does not speak English. At first, grandfather keeps to
himself by reading the Chinese newspaper he brought with him. One day, as Gong Gong and
Helen sit outside watching the train cars go by, Gong Gong begins to count in Chinese. He soon
teaches Helen to count in Chinese too, and in turn, Helen teaches her grandfather to count in
English. This story of the intergenerational bond between a grandparent and grandchild suggests
how language barriers might be overcome.
Cooper, J. (1993). Someone Smaller Than Me. Illustrated by A. Padlo; translated by C. Lucassie.
Iqaluit, Nunavut: Baffin Divisional Board of Education.
Written in English by Jane Cooper and translated into Inuktitut by Charlie Lucassie, the book tells
the story of Peter who wants to catch a lemming. But what does a lemming look like? After
asking many creatures, all too big, Peter finally finds someone smaller, someone just right – a
lemming! Written to aid Inuit children’s learning of their native language, the book entertains
southern Canadian children with its patterned prose and gentle illustrations of northern animals.
Condon, P. (2000). Changes. Saskatoon: Gabriel Dumont Institute.
This story is about a young Métis child named Kona, who undergoes a personal journey by
learning that the changing seasons closely interact with her emotions. She is guided along the
way by the Gathering Spirit who teaches her about accepting change and celebrating the richness
of life's emotions.
Cummings, P. (2004). Out on the Ice in the Middle of the Bay. Illustrated by A. Priestley.
Toronto, Ontario: Annick Press.
This reissue celebrates the tenth anniversary of this picture book's first publication in 1993.
The gentle, rhythmical text describes how a little girl named Leah wanders away from her
home, and her napping father, towards an iceberg in the bay. At the same time, a polar bear
cub named Baby Nanook saunters away from his sleeping mother towards the same iceberg.
When the parents awake, both Leah's father and the mother polar bear search frantically for
their offspring. The parents dramatically confront each other and just then Leah and Baby
Nanook appear and are rescued.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol11/no8/outontheice.html
Author’s webpage: http://www3.sympatico.ca/peter.cumming/i1.html
Davidge, B. (1993). The Mummer’s Song. Illustrated by I. Wallace. Toronto: Douglas & McIntyre.
Popular singer Bud Davidge wrote "The Mummer's Song" as a tribute to a centuries-old custom in
danger of disappearing. On a cold, clear Newfoundland night shortly after Christmas, several
outlandishly costumed mummers appear and Granny's house suddenly erupts in a burst of joking
and tomfoolery, raucous singing and exuberant dancing. Granny and her two young charges are
instantly caught up in the merriment. When the evening's festivities come to a close, the
mummers are bid a fond farewell until next year.
Davis, A. (2003). Bagels from Benny. Illustrated by D. Petricic. Toronto: Kids Can Press.
Benny's Grandpa has a reputation for making wonderful bagels that his customers say are
"made with love." In response to their appreciation, a wise Grandpa explains to Benny that it
is indeed God who must be thanked. At first, Benny is troubled by how he might thank God,
but his strong desire to do so, coupled with an inspiration, leads him to the synagogue, a
house of worship, where he leaves bagels for God inside the holy Ark.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol10/no1/bagelsfrombenny.html
Demers, D. (2003). L’Oiseau des Sables. Illustrated by S. Poulin. St.Lambert, Quebec:
Dominique et Compagnie.
A father tells his son about the wishes he was granted throughout his life by five sand birds that
his own father gave to him one day when he was a boy. The subjects dealt with in this book are
rarely encountered in children's literature: the power of the inner voice that guides the individual
and the vital choices that shape each of our lives; the unconditional love that binds parent to
child. The prominence given to the illustrations enhances the depth of these themes. Readers are
propelled into the very heart of the artist's imagination: faced with a series of large depictions,
they are encouraged to enter the narrative the way one enters a gallery or an exhibition room.
The dense, dark tones selected by the illustrator help to evoke the bygone days presented in the
story.
Description:
http://www.collectionscanada.ca/read-up-on-it/015020-054052-e.html
Downie, M. A. (2005). A Pioneer ABC. Illustrated by M. J. Gerber. Toronto: Tundra Books.
A is for Abigail and Anna, Zebediah’s two sisters. He is making the girls an alphabet book. From
B, which stands for bandalore, a forerunner of the yoyo, H for the hornbook that taught children
to spell, and on through the pigeons that blackened the sky, to the uniform that Papa wore when
he defended the king, right through to X for the eXhaustion of parents who are homesteading.
This romp through the seasons on a pioneer farm is full of fascinating information.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol12/no2/apioneerabc.html
Elwin, R. (1990). Asha’s Mums. Illustrated by D. Lee. Toronto: Women’s Press.
The story of Asha and her two mums increases awareness of different kinds of families and
different kinds of relationships. When Asha’s mums both sign a field trip permission slip for Asha,
the teacher requests that the form be re-done "correctly." The teacher tells Asha she can't have
two mums, and if the form is not filled out correctly, Asha cannot go on the trip. Eventually, the
misunderstanding is resolved and both mums are allowed to sign the form. The story highlights
the difficulties children of gay and lesbian families encounter when teachers are not aware of their
family structure. The reality of exclusion and acceptance is also raised in the book as a discussion
begins among the children about whether or not a child can have two mums.
Eyvindson, P. (1996). Red Parka Mary. Illustrated by R. Brynjolson. Winnipeg: Pemmican
Publications Inc.
The little boy in this heart warming Christmas story is afraid of his elderly female neighbour.
When his mother reassures him that she is a friendly and kind person, he grows to appreciate and
cherish their friendship. Red Parka Mary has much to teach him, and he has much to give to her.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol3/no8/redparka.html
Eyvindson, P. (1993). The Missing Sun. Illustrated by R. Brynjolson. Winnipeg, MB: Pemmican
Publications.
When Emily and her mother move to Inuvik, Emily has a hard time believing her mother's claim
that the sun is going to disappear for many days. But her new friend Josie assures her that it is
true. When they really do lose the sun, Emily has to wrestle with conflicting explanations. Her
mother tells her that the earth is tilted, while Josie says Raven has stolen the sun. Emily's main
concern is whether the sun ever shine again.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm///cmarchive/vol22no3/revmissingsun.html
Fitch, S. (2001). No Two Snowflakes. Illustrated by J. Wilson. Victoria, BC: Orca Book Publishers.
Lou and Araba are pen pals. Lou is Canadian while Araba lives halfway around the world in
Africa. In a letter to her friend, Lou shares her knowledge of snow with Araba, who has never felt
it squeak beneath her feet or melt on her tongue. This book shares the beauty of snowflakes – no
two snowflakes are alike, just as no two people are alike.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol8/no8/notwo.html
Gay, M. (2000). Stella Reine des Neiges. Quebec: Dominique et Compagnie.
“Is the snow cold?” asks Sacha. “Is it hard?” he asks. “It is as cold as a vanilla ice cream cone,”
says Stella, “and as soft as a baby rabbit’s fur.” It is Sacha’s first snowstorm and he is full of
wonder. He asks many questions of his big sister Stella, who seems to know all the answers.
The two children go exploring in the snow to discover all the tastes, sights and sounds of winter’s
first snowfall.
Description (in French): http://www.collectionscanada.ca/read-up-on-it/015020-025000-f.html#e
Gilmore, R. (1998). A Gift for Gita. Illustrated by A. Priestley. Toronto: Second Story Press.
This is the third and final book in the series featuring Gita, a young immigrant girl from India.
During a visit from Gita’s beloved grandmother, Gita’s father announces that he has received a
job offer back in India. What should the family do? Grandmother wants her family to go “home”
but eventually, Gita’s family decides that, although they miss India, they belong in Canada now. A
Gift for Gita is a story about Indian cultures and traditions, job relocation, immigration
experiences, family heritage and the meaning of "home."
Publisher’s website, with teaching ideas:
http://www.tilburyhouse.com/Children's%20Frames/child_gift_fr.html
Gilmore, R. (1999). A Screaming Kind of Day. Illustrated by G. Sauve. Markham, ON: Fitzhenry &
Whiteside.
This story is about a young hearing-impaired girl named Scully. Scully loves to play outside in the
rain, away from her brother Leo and her busy mother as she loves the feeling of rain spattering
gently on her face. After escaping briefly to the wet green trees outside, she is grounded and not
allowed to leave the house for a day. As evening approaches, Scully and her mother are able to
re-connect as they share a special moment together watching the stars.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol8/no1/screamingkind.html
Teaching suggestions: http://www.rachnagilmore.ca/guide-scream.html
Gorman, L. (2005). A is for Algonquin: An Ontario Alphabet. Illustrated by M. Rose. Chelsea,
Michigan: Sleeping Bear Press.
A is for Algonquin: An Ontario Alphabet introduces young readers to the beauty of the province.
Written with knowledge by a life-long resident, this story describes Ontario's inhabitants, history,
flora and fauna, movers and shakers. The book answers a variety of questions such as: Is the
longest street in the world really in Ontario? And the world's longest skating rink? What is the
Group of Seven?
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol12/no14/aisforalgonquin.html
Teacher’s guide: http://www.gale.com/pdf/TeachersGuides/OntarioGuide_gorman.pdf
Gregory, N. (1995). How Smudge came. Illustrated by R. Lightburn. Red Deer, AB: Red Deer College
Press.
Cindy, who has Down's syndrome, lives in a group home and works as a cleaner in a hospice. One
day she finds a puppy, which she hides in her room and takes to work with her. However, Cindy’s
‘secret’ is discovered and Smudge, the puppy, is whisked away to the S.P.C.A. A happy resolution
is celebrated against the darker backdrop of early death (the hospice residents) and lack of
freedom that living with a mental impairment can entail.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm//vol3/no19/smudge.html
Gutierrez, E. (2005). Picturescape. Vancouver: Simply Read Books Inc.
Triggered by his imagination, a young boy's visit to the art gallery sends him on a journey across
the country through some of Canada's greatest twentieth century paintings. Beginning with the
work of Emily Carr, the boy travels from Vancouver Island to Newfoundland in this beautiful
wordless book. Appealing to children of all ages, the book contains endnotes about each of the
paintings featured in 'Picturescape' and information about the artist.
Available online: http://www.picturescape.ca/
Review: https://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol12/no7/picturescape.html
Harrison, T. (2002). Courage to Fly. Illustrated by Z. Huang. Red Deer, AB: Red Deer Press.
Meg moves from her Caribbean home to a new city where nothing seems familiar. She prefers to
stay in her room rather than play outside with friends. One day, walking home from school, Meg
finds and rescues a sick swallow. Although the swallow quickly recovers, it remains silent and still
in the box Meg has provided. An elderly Chinese man, who has become Meg's friend, advises her
to release the swallow. Meg and Jenny, who is also becoming her friend, release the swallow.
This allows both Meg and the bird to find the freedom they need.
Highway, T. (2001). Caribou Song. Illustrated by B. Deines. Toronto: HarperCollins Publishers.
Caribou Song is set in northern Manitoba and shares the story of the land, peoples and customs in
both English and Cree. Through the long winter, two brothers, Joe and Cody, dance and play the
kitoochigan and, in the spring, become part of a family adventure following the ateek (caribou)
with a sled pulled by huskies. This is the first book in a trilogy entitled, “Songs of the North Wind”.
Study Guide: http://www.artsalive.ca/pdf/eth/activities/caribou_raven_guide.pdf
Book Profile: http://www.collectionscanada.ca/read-up-on-it/015020-062004-e.html
Highway, T. (2002). Dragonfly Kites. Illustrated by B. Deines. Toronto: HarperCollins Publishers.
Joe and Cody, the two young brothers first introduced in Caribou Song, stay in a tent near a
different lake each summer. Summer means a chance to explore the world and make friends with
an array of creatures. They catch dragonflies, gently tie a length of thread around the middle of
each dragonfly before letting it go, and then chase after their dragonfly kites through trees and
meadows and down to the beach before watching them disappear into the night sky.
Book Profile: http://www.collectionscanada.ca/read-up-on-it/015020-062009-e.html
Highway, T. (2003). Fox on the Ice. Illustrated by B. Deines. Toronto: HarperCollins Publishers.
Fox on the Ice is the third in Tomson Highway’s “Songs of the North Wind” picture-book series.
In this story, a fox distracts the family dog team from a winter ice-fishing expedition, and it is left
to Ootsie, the pet black dog to save the day and the fishing net. Ootsie is part of the family unit,
and family togetherness is a theme stressed directly and indirectly in this story.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm////vol11/no2/foxontheice.html
Jennings, S. (2000). Into My Mother’s Arms. Illustrated by R. Ohi. Markham, ON: Fitzhenry &
Whiteside.
Into my mother’s arms tells the story of a special relationship between a mother and her
daughter. Told from a little girl’s point of view, a mother and daughter share their day-to-day
experiences which feature breakfast together, grocery shopping, some time in the park en route
home, and ends with bath time and bedtime.
Publisher’s Profile: http://www.electricpenguin.com/ruthohi/books/intomymothers.html
King, T. (1992). A Coyote Columbus Story. Illustrated by W.K. Monkman. Toronto: A Groundwood
Book, Douglas & McIntyre Ltd.
In this parodic retelling of Columbus's "discovery" of America, King overturns numerous
stereotypes around colonization. King tells the story from an Aboriginal perspective, and cleverly
interweaves figures from popular culture with the figure of Coyote, the trickster, to elucidate new
truths about history and about the ongoing forces of colonialism in North America. The bright
neon illustrations add to the humour and the resonance of the written text.
Kusugak, M. (1993). Northern Lights: The Soccer Trails. Illustrated by V. Krykorka. Toronto:
Annick Press.
Soccer is a traditional game of the Inuit. It is their belief that the northern lights are the souls of
the dead, running all over the sky chasing a walrus head they use for a soccer ball. This picture
book tells the story of a little girl growing up in the Arctic. Kataujaq learns about her arctic home
from her mother, traveling with her across the sea ice, picking flowers during the summer, and
gathering berries in the autumn. When tuberculosis strikes Kataujaq’s mother, she is flown to a
hospital in the south. Kataujaq never sees her mother again, and is deeply saddened by her loss.
However, when grandmother tells Kataujaq the story of the Northern Lights, Kataujaq is
comforted and comes to accept her mother’s death.
Review; http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/cmarchive/vol22no1/revnorthernlights.html
Littlechild, G. (1993). This Land is My Land. San Francisco: Children’s Book Press.
This land is my land is an autobiographical account of the struggles George Littlechild’s family
endured through many generations. The author offers stories of delight, humour and healing as
he tells of his family, his childhood, and his work as an artist. The book heightens awareness of
the history and experiences of Aboriginal people in Canada.
Review: http://www.kstrom.net/isk/books/art/art2029.html
Loewen, I. (1993). My Kokum Called Today. Illustrated by G. Miller. Winnipeg: Pemmican
Publications Inc.
When her kokum (grandmother) phones from the reserve, a young Aboriginal girl living in the city
knows she can expect a special experience. This time it’s a dance on the Reserve. She learns that
women, especially grandmothers, are the ties that hold together the many Aboriginal families
dispersed in rural and urban communities.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm//cmarchive/vol22no1/kokum.html
Major, K. (2000). Eh? To Zed. Illustrated by A. Daniel, Illustr). Red Deer: Red Deer Press.
From Arctic, Bonhomme and Imax to Kayak, Ogopogo and zed, this book takes both children and
adults on an alphabetic, fun-filled tour of Canada. Set in tightly linked rhyming verse, the words
for this unique book resonate with classic and contemporary images from every province and
territory in the country. Included are place names from Cavendish to Yarmouth and icons that
evoke Canada’s regions, cultures, discoveries and heritage. Accompanying the text are the visual
images from the colorful palette of illustrator Alan Daniel, who provides a mixture of folk art
paintings, toys and models that leap from the page with energy.
Review: http://www.epl.ca/TheSource/V6-1/EPLChildrensBookReview2.cfm
McGugan, J. (1994). Josepha: A Prairie Boy’s Story. Illustrated by M. Kimber. Red Deer, AB: Red
Deer College Press.
This story, narrated by a young boy, tells of the difficulties encountered by his friend, Josepha, an
immigrant from Eastern Europe in 1900. Josepha is adjusting to a new home and a new
language. Because he doesn’t speak English, Josepha is seated with the very young children in
school. He is initially embarrassed and wants to sit with the boys of his own age. Eventually
Josepha makes some precious friends among the primary grade children, and when he has to
leave school to work on the farm, the children are sad to see him go. What a wonderful friend he
has been! Without a common language between them, how will the narrator ever say good-bye?
What gift can he give Josepha to show how special their friendship has been?
Author Profile: http://www.collectionscanada.ca/read-up-on-it/015020-6045-e.html
McLellan, S. Simpson. (2004). Leon's Song. Illustrated by D. Bonder. Markham, ON: Fitzhenry &
Whiteside.
Leon is an old and rather homely frog. Other frogs in the pond are more handsome and can swim
faster and leap higher, and Leon is all right with that. But when Leon hears the frog Romeo sing,
his heart aches - for Romeo is the greatest singer on the pond. When Romeo opens his mouth, all
the pond dwellers are spellbound. Leon's humble croak cannot compare, and while he is inspired
by Romeo's beautiful voice, he dreams of making such a difference himself. Leon isn't going to
have wait very long. Something is about to happen that will threaten the pond dwellers and their
way of life forever. And to protect them all, Leon will find a talent than no one knew he
possessed. (Written by the author.)
Author's site: http://www.stephaniemclellan.com/LeonsSong.htm
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol11/no7/leonssong.html
Moak, A. (2002). A Big City ABC. Toronto: Tundra Books.
Toronto, Canada’s largest city and one of the great cities of the world, means different things to
different people. For some, it is the business centre of the country, with its soaring office towers
and banks. For others, it is the arts capital, with its galleries, theatres, radio and television
studios. However, in this book, the author sees Toronto through children’s eyes. He presents the
places he feels make Toronto a wonderful city for children. (Originally published in 1984).
Review; http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol8/no21/abigcity.html
Morck, I. (1996). Tiger’s New Cowboy Boots. Illustrated by G. Graham. Red Deer, AB: Red Deer
College Press.
Each summer, Tyler (nicknamed Tiger) takes the long bus ride to his Uncle Roy’s ranch to
participate in the cattle drive. This summer, instead of wearing runners, Tyler has new cowboy
boots. He is disappointed when the other riders do not notice them. After a day of riding a horse
in dusty conditions, crawling after an orphan calf in the bush, and sloshing through water and
mud to move the cattle across a river, Tyler’s cowboy boots are noticed by his friend Jessica.
“Hey Tiger”, she says admiringly, “your boots are just like mine.” Tyler knows he is now a real
cowboy.
Munsch, R. & Ascar, S. (1995). From Far Away. Illustrated by M. Martchenko. Toronto: Annick
Press.
Author Robert Munch writes the story of Saoussan who came to North America from Beirut when
she was five years old. As co-author, Saoussan tells her story; one that grew out of a series of
letters she wrote to Munsch. As she struggles to fit in to her strange new surroundings, Saoussan
captures the emotions and frustrations of being a newcomer to Canada.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol9/no20/fromfaraway.html
Author’s Website: http://robertmunsch.com/books.cfm?bookid=55
Munsch, R. (2001). Up, Up, Down. Illustrated by M. Martchenko. Markham, ON: Scholastic.
Anna loves to climb, while her mother and father prefer her to come down! Although Anna is
told by her parents not to climb, she continues to climb anything in and outside the house with
unexpected results for the family. The book introduces elements of magic realism into a familiar
family story.
Teaching Guide/Review:
http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol12/no4/teachingwithrobertmunschbooksvol2.html
Author’s website; http://robertmunsch.com/books.cfm?bookid=68
Murray, B. (2004). Thomas and the Metis Sash. Illustrated by S. Dawson. Translated by R. Flamand.
Pemmican Publications Inc: Winnipeg, MB.
Li Saennchur Fleshii di Michif or Thomas and the Metis Sash is the third collaboration among this
trio of author, illustrator and translator. In each book, Thomas is introduced to another aspect of
his Metis cultural heritage. In this book, Thomas and his classmates finger weave a two colour
belt in art class. When Thomas takes his blue and white belt home to show his parents, his
mother says it reminds her of her Metis sash which she takes out to show Thomas. She briefly
explains the sash's uses before going on to describe the significance of its pattern and colours.
Thomas then asks to take the sash to school where he shares the sash and his mother's
explanation with his classmates and art teacher.
Quoted from the review: http://umanitoba.ca/cm/vol11/no18/thomasandthemetissash.html
Nanji, S. (2000). Treasure for Lunch. Illustrated by Y. Cathcart. Toronto: Second Story Press.
Where does Shaira mysteriously disappear to during lunch hour? Although Shaira is thrilled when
her grandmother comes to stay with her while her parents are away, her Grandmother packs her
tasty goodies for her school lunch that she is ashamed to eat in front of her friends. She
manages to find interesting ways to bury the bhajias and the kebabs from her lunch as it is
wintertime and there are many good hiding places in the snow. Shaira’s secret is safe until the
snow begins to melt and her buried treasure is exposed! Will her friends find out where she has
been going each lunch hour? This story reassures those children whose family favourites go
beyond peanut butter and jelly as Nanji addresses cultural embarrassment and celebration.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol7/no20/treasure.html
Oberman, S. (1994). The Always Prayer Shawl. Illustrated by T. Lewin. Honesdale, PA: Boyds
Mill Press, Caroline House; distributed by St. Martin’s Press.
This is a story about the importance of tradition and the certainty of change. Adam is a young
Jewish boy growing up in Russia in the early 1900s. When the revolution forces his parents to
seek a better life in North America, Adam must leave his grandfather, whose name is also Adam,
and all that is familiar and dear to him. The prayer shawl his grandfather gives him takes on
tremendous significance and, as Adam grows up, marries and becomes a grandfather himself, the
prayer shawl remains a constant in his life. Events come full circle many years later when Adam's
grandson assures him that their "always prayer shawl" and their name "Adam" will continue
through the next generations.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/cmarchive/vol22no3/revalwaysprayer.html
Patton, A. & Burton, W. (2007). Fiddle Dancer. Illustrated by Sherry Farrell Racette. Michif translation
by N. Fleury. The Gabriel Dumont Institute: Saskatoon, SK.
Fiddle Dancer tells the tale of a young Métis boy, Nolin, and his growing awareness of his Métis
heritage and identity while his “Mooshoom", or grandfather, teaches him to dance. Authors
Wilfred Burton and Anne Patton weave a childhood story rich in Métis culture and language. This
story captures the importance of Elders as role models, a child's apprehension at learning new
things, and the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren. (Adapted from the
description at
http://www.gdins.org/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=95&osCsid=35f80f420d99ad398744
00985f538623 )
Pawagi, M. (1998). The Girl Who Hated Books. Second Story Press.
Meena's parents love books, but Meena hates them. That's especially bad because there are
books all over the house--in drawers, on the sofa, but mostly stacked to the ceiling. When
Meena's cat leaps up on top of one of the tallest towers, Meena tries to rescue him. Instead, she
knocks the books over. Down they crash, and out of the pages fly Humpty Dumpty, Ali Baba,
Peter Rabbit, and other literary characters, who convince Meena about the power of books.
Info: http://www.2think.org/girlhatesbooks.shtml
Film site (view clips): http://www.nfb.ca/trouverunfilm/fichefilm.php?lg=en&id=51715&v=h
Pelletier, Darrell W. (1992). The Big Storm. The Gabriel Dumont Institute: Regina, SK.
Set in Winnipeg in the 1930s, this is the story of a young girl who is so excited about eating latkes
at her friend’s house that she forgets about her beloved cat who is waiting for her outside during
a snow storm. By the time she remembers, the cat requires special care. Maryann Kovalski’s soft
violet snow scenes and warmly coloured domestic scenes effectively communicate this highly
emotional experience.
Information copied from http://www.sasked.gov.sk.ca/curr_inst/iru/bibs/elhealth/t-db.html#34
Pelletier, Darrell W. (1992). Alfred’s Summer. The Gabriel Dumont Institute: Regina, SK.
Alfred enjoys a summer visit with Moshom and Kokom at their house near the woods. He goes for
long bike rides, sleeps in a tent, and sits around a campfire roasting marshmallows and listening
to Moshom’s interesting stories about his youth. The simple crayon illustrations by Darrell Pelletier
are appealing to young children.
Information copied from http://www.sasked.gov.sk.ca/curr_inst/iru/bibs/elhealth/t-da.html#12
Pendziwol, J. (2004). Dawn Watch. Illustrated by N. Debon. Toronto: Groundwood Books.
During a night-time sail across Lake Superior, a girl wakes up to take watch with her father. The
air is crisp and cold and Dad points out the Big Dipper and Little Bear and muses that the North
Star has guided sailors for thousands of years. When he slips down to the cabin to fetch hot
chocolate, the girl is left alone, and she imagines pirate ships, sea monsters, and rocky islands in
the black waves. The images disappear when she blinks, but she does see the red and green
lights of a passing ship. Her father returns and together they watch the sun rise and finally see
land in the distance, a "black line between sky and sea." The lyrical, first person narrative quietly
captures the wonder of the universe during a late-night journey. There is a sense of adventure
when the child is alone on deck.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm////vol11/no14/dawnwatch.html
Pendziwol, J. (2005). The Red Sash. Illustrated by N. Debon. Toronto: Groundwood Books.
This story is full of details about Canada at the time of the Canadian fur trade. Set in the early
years of the 19th century, the story unfolds through the eyes of a young Métis boy. He lives with
his family just outside Fort William, which was the major trading post linking the fur trade of
northern and central Canada to the North West Company's main headquarters in Montreal.
Voyageurs, easily identified by the red sash they wore, were the men who worked in the fur
trade, traveling along the trade routes by canoe. The boy longs to be a voyageur like his father
and describes his family's life and the role that Fort William played in the opening of the Canadian
interior. The boy helps rescue a white gentleman trader whose canoe is destroyed in a storm on
the lake. The clear, mixed-media illustrations capture the people and the place, contrasting the
harsh storm in the wilderness with the final rendezvous at the fort, where the voyageurs
(including the boy's father), the traders, and the local community dance and celebrate together.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol12/no9/theredsash.html
Perron, J., Sylliboy, H., Mitcham, A., Mitcham, N. (2002). A Little Boy Catches a Whale.
Bouton d’or Acadie: Moncton, NB.
An adaptation in French, English, and Mi’kmaq of a Mi’kmaq fable published by Silas T. Rand
in 1894.
Quinlan, P. (1994). Tiger Flowers. Illustrated by J. Wilson, Illustr). Toronto: Lester Pub.
Tiger Flowers tells the story of a boy called Joel and his uncle Michael. Joel's uncle dies of AIDS
and Joel has to deal with his grief. Joel remembers all the things that he and his uncle did
together. He remembers when his uncle was sick and the things that his uncle could no longer
do. Joel talks to his mother about how he feels: "like I'm in a cold, lonely place inside me." His
mother reassures him that she also feels that way and that "It hurts a lot right now. After a while
it will hurt less." This makes Joel feel a lot better and he goes to sit in the tree-house that he and
his uncle had made. After a while he climbs down and picks a tiger lily (Michael's favourite flower)
to give to his sister Tara, who is also grieving for her uncle.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol3/no8/tiger.html
Ruurs, M. (2000). A Mountain Alphabet. Illustrated by A. Kiss. Toronto: Tundra Books.
One of many alphabet books set in Western Canada, this book contains hidden animals, plants
and a letter of the alphabet in each painting. Readers familiar with the Rocky Mountains will
recognize some of the views Kiss has captured. Notes at the end of the book make for an
informative as well as an aesthetic reading experience. Grizzly bears, loons, mountains goats,
moose and people populate this alphabet book.
Publisher’s guide:
http://www.tundrabooks.com/teacher_resources/teacher_guides/tg_mountain_alphabet.html
Sanderson, E. (1990). Two Pairs of Shoes. Illustrated by D. Beyer, Illustr). Winnipeg: Pemmican
Publications Inc.
A young girl named Maggie receives a pair of dress shoes from mother for her birthday. They
were shoes that she had wanted for a long time. She goes to show them to her grandmother,
who is blind. Maggie’s grandmother compliments her on her new shoes and tells her to open a
special box. In the box is a pair of beautiful beaded hand-made moccasins. Maggie is told that
she now has two pairs of shoes and that she must learn when and how to wear each pair.
Sauriol, L. (2004). Les Trouvailles d’Adami. Illustrated by Franson, L. Quebec: Les éditions soleil
de minuit.
A little Inuit boy moves south to the city with his mother, and compares what he sees out of his
window with his memories of the north – until he is drawn out of his basement hide-away to
make friends with his next-door neighbour.
Description (in French): http://felix.cyberscol.qc.ca/LQ/auteurS/sauriolm/adami.HTMl
Setterington, K. (2004). Mom and Mum are Getting Married. Illustrated by A. Priestley. Toronto:
Second Story Press.
The up-coming wedding of Rosie's two mothers, Mum and Mom, is seen through the eyes of an
excited eight-year-old. Perhaps she can get to be a bridesmaid or at the very least flower girl.
Disappointed when these two suggestions are nixed, Rosie comes up with a brilliant idea. She and
Jack, Mum's little boy, can be ring-bearers and scatter some petals at the same time. Trying to
practice holding rings and scattering flowers with a preschooler who is more interested in picking
the scab from his knee is discouraging, but nevertheless, when the wedding day rolls around,
Rosie is ready to take on her role. All goes famously, with rings and kisses exchanged, petals
scattered, applause from all the guests and celebratory bubbles floating around the happy couple.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol11/no6/momandmumaregettingmarried.html
Skirving, J. (2006). P is for Puffin: A Newfoundland and Labrador Alphabet. Illustrated by Odell
Archibald. Chelsea, MI: Sleeping Bear Press.
This Newfoundland and Labrador picture book focuses on the history, peoples, traditions and
landscapes of the province, depicted in verse, illustration and informational text. This alphabetic
tour highlights the natural beauty of different parts of the province and many of its unique
cultural aspects.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol13/no7/pisforpuffin.html
Publisher's site (with link to a teaching guide):
http://www.gale.com/servlet/ItemDetailServlet?region=9&imprint=785&titleCode=SBCNA1&cf=p
&type=4&id=226536
Skrypuch, M.F. (1996). Silver Threads. Illustrated by M. Martchenko. Toronto: Penguin Books
Canada.
Based on historical events, this book tells the story of Anna and Ivan who escape poverty and
hardship in Ukraine to move to the Canadian frontier. Tragedy strikes when Ivan is imprisoned as
an ‘enemy alien’ when World War I breaks out. Anna finds herself alone as she struggles to keep
their property and valuables. However, hope comes from an unexpected source.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol3/no5/silver.html
Publisher’s site: http://www.calla.com/threads.html
Spalding, A. (1999). Me and Mr. Mah. Illustrated by J. Wilson. Victoria, BC: Orca Book Publishers.
Ian’s parents separate and Ian moves with his mother from the prairie wheat farm to the city. Ian
is lonely and peeks through the fence to find out who lives next door. He sees Mr. Mah tending
his vegetable garden and a friendship grows between this lonely little boy and a lonely old man.
Ian has a shoebox of objects from the farm to keep him company, and he soon discovers that Mr.
Mah keeps his own box of memories of his past in China. Each helps the other in a time of need
by sharing their secret feelings of displacement.
Review:
http://www.readonbc.ca/EN/mla_book_reviews/me_and_mr._mah/?&PHPSESSID=4f1481e6519c4
8e16d947f2b235070b0
Spalding, A. (2001). It’s Raining, It’s Pouring. Illustrated by L.E. Watts. Victoria, BC: Orca Book
Publishers.
Little Girl watches the rain and thunder through her window. Little Girl is determined to stop the
rain so she can play. Appealing to the readers’ imagination, It’s Raining, It’s pouring! takes the
reader on a journey with Little Girl up into the clouds to help Old Man get out of bed so that he
can go back to taking care of the weather.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol7/no21/itsraining.html
Steffen, C. (2003). A New Home for Malik. Illustrated by J. Stopper. Calgary: Calgary
Immigrant Woman’s Association.
The book tells the story of a five-year-old boy who has just moved to Calgary from Sudan.
Everything is new and so different for him. Readers follow Malik as he meets new friends, learns a
new language and experiences Canada’s four seasons for the first time.
Thien, M. (2001). The Chinese Violin. Illustrated by J. Chang. Vancouver: Whitecap Books.
A story about what it is like to emigrate from a faraway place, a young girl and her father leave
everything familiar behind when they move to Canada from China. The only piece of home they
bring with them is a Chinese violin. As they face the huge challenges of starting new lives in a
new place, the music of the violin connects them to the life they left behind - and guides the girl
to a musical future.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol8/no15/chineseviolin.html
Trottier, M. (1995). The Tiny Kite of Eddie Wing. Illustrated by A. Van Mil. Toronto: Stoddart
Kids.
From the moment he gets up until the moment he goes to sleep, Eddie thinks of nothing but kites
and kite flying. Because his family is too poor to buy him a kite, Eddie has to make do with his
imagination and his dreams. His resourcefulness and determination inspire the other children to
cheer for the invisible kite, which he flies over the hill tops. Eventually, Eddie's love of kites
inspires Old Chan, who organizes the annual Festival of Kites, to realize his own neglected dream
of becoming a poet. Old Chan, in turn, helps to make Eddie's dream come true.
Publisher’s Info (scroll down): http://www.execulink.com/~maxitrot/crafts.htm
Teaching Ideas: http://www.execulink.com/~maxitrot/kite.pdf
Trottier, M. (1997). Heartsong = Ceòl cridhe. Illustrated by P. MacAulay-Mackinnon. Sydney,
N.S.: University College of Cape Breton Press.
Told in English and Gaelic, this is the story of a fiddle passed down through four generations.
From father to son, who built the fiddle together, from that son to his daughter, from that
daughter to her daughter, and from her daughter to a new toddler in the family--and all the
events it attended throughout those years
Description: http://www.collectionscanada.ca/read-up-on-it/015020-2007-e.html
Trottier, M. (1999). Flags. Illustrated by P. Morin. Toronto: Stoddart Kids.
Flags is a story of innocence and friendship between Mary, a child visiting her grandmother for
the summer, and Mr Hiroshi, a Japanese man living next door. When Mr Hiroshi is taken away
from his home because of the war, Mary keeps her promise to look after his garden until he
returns. The story springs from a complicated world event, and is told from a child’s point of view.
Publisher’s Info (scroll down): http://www.execulink.com/~maxitrot/crafts.htm
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm////vol7/no9/flags.html
Uegaki, C. (2003). Suki’s Kimono. Illustrated by S. Jorisch. Toronto: Kids Can Press.
On her first day of first grade, Suki chooses to wear her beloved Japanese kimono to school,
despite the objections of her older sisters and the initial laughter of other children on the
playground. Fortunately for Suki, for whom the kimono brings back fond memories of her
grandmother's visit over the summer, her day ends in triumph, with her teacher and classmates
won over by her impromptu dance performance. Overall, this is an appealing story of courage and
independence.
Teaching Ideas: http://arts.k12.hi.us/07grade1/07Grade1_Lesson_SukisKimono.htm
Ulmer, M. (2001). M is for Maple: A Canadian Alphabet. Illustrated by M. Rose. Chelsea, MI:
Sleeping Bear Press.
From British Columbia to Newfoundland, this Canadian alphabet book shares some of Canada’s
symbols, history, people and culture. In rhymes and informative text, author Mike Ulmer describes
details of Canada’s past and present. Melanie Rose’s illustrations present many of Canada’s wellknown scenes, from the Northern Lights, to Mounties and the cities of Toronto, Victoria, and
Quebec.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol8/no12/maple.html
Van Camp, R. (1998). What’s the Most Beautiful Thing You Know about Horses? Illustrated
by G. Littlechild. San Francisco: Children’s Book Press.
In Fort Smith on a day so cold the ravens refuse to fly, Van Camp cannot go outside. Instead, he
asks his family and friends “What’s the most beautiful thing you know about horses?” The people
of the Dogrib Nation in the Northwest Territories have little experience with horses. The many
answers Van Camp receives (including one from the book’s illustrator) form the basis for this text
that reveals secrets about horses and about the people in Van Camp’s life.
Author Info: http://web.uvic.ca/torch/torch1997f/vox.htm
Van Camp, R. (1997). A Man Called Raven. Illustrated by G. Littlechild. San Francisco: Children’s
Book Press.
This contemporary story, set in the Northwest Territories, blends the past and the present to tell
of Chris and Toby’s learning from a strange raven man. Drawn from the animal legends and
folklore heard by the author, who grew up as part of the Dogrib Nation, the story emphasises the
importance of having respect for nature.
Review: http://aeoe.org/resources/books/reviewed/raven.html
Publisher’s site: http://www.childrensbookpress.org/ob/raven.html
Waboose, J. B. (1997). Morning on the Lake. Illustrated by K. Reczuch. Toronto, Ontario: Kids
Can Press.
In Morning on the Lake, a series of three linked stories, an Ojibway grandfather, Mishomis, and
his young grandson, Noshen, set out in a birch bark canoe one misty morning. Together in the
early morning stillness, they watch a pair of loons and are rewarded by seeing the male loon
perform his territorial dance. In the second story, "Noon", the boy and his grandfather climb a
rocky cliff and are visited by an eagle whose presence, Mishomis explains, "... is a sign of honour
and wisdom. As the Great Eagle is a proud protector of our people, I am a proud Mishomis of my
Noshen." The final story, entitled "Night", takes place deep in the woods where the boy and his
grandfather venture so that Noshen may see the night animals. Here the pair encounter a pack of
timber wolves, but Mishomis' wisdom and courage are transmitted to Noshen, and he is able to
overcome his fear and stand his ground in the yellow-eyed gaze of the leader.
Review; http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol4/no4/morningonthelake.html
Waboose, J. B. (2000). Sky Sisters. Illustrated by B. Deines, Illustr). Toronto: Kids Can Press.
Sky Sisters is a story about two young Ojibway sisters, Nishiime and Nimise, who set out across
the frozen north country to Coyote Hill, where the Sky Spirits dance. They suck glistening icicles
while walking, they meet a rabbit and a white-tailed deer, they hear coyote's call, and howl in
return, they spin together atop a hill until they fall down dizzy in the snow, and finally the Spirits
come. The story honours the mystery in the sky that is the Aurora Borealis and tells of the bond
between sisters, generations, humans and nature.
Review: http://www.littlefolktales.org/reviews/skysisters.html
Wallace, I. (2000). Duncan's way. Illustrated by I. Wallace. Toronto, ON: Groundwood Books
/Douglas & McIntyre.
For seven generations Duncan's family has fished off the coast of Newfoundland. Now, the fish
are gone and with them, the old way of life. Duncan notices that his father is spending the days
staring out to sea, watching television and baking bread and pies. Many families have left town in
search of work elsewhere. Even Duncan's mother is beginning to suggest that they, too, join the
exodus to the mainland. One day Duncan goes to visit his teacher, whose model train set sits on a
Newfoundland-shaped board. As Duncan watches the miniature engines whizzing around the
board, he is struck with a very original idea - a way to combine his father's newfound baking skills
with his experience as a ship's skipper. (Written by the publisher)
Review: http://www.uoguelph.ca/ccl/reviews/105-106shklanka.shtml
Author/Artist's site: http://www.ian-wallace.com/gallery_Duncan.html
Ye, T. (1999). Share the Sky. Illustrated by S. Langlois. Toronto: Annick Press.
Fei-Fei lives in China with her Grandpa, who makes the kites she loves to fly through the sky with
her elder cousin. A letter from North America tells Fei-Fei it is time for her to re-join her parents.
Share the sky is a story of the courage it takes to face a strange new life, of the tolerance and
understanding one needs to deal with different ways and customs, and of the love of family.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm////vol6/no13/share.html
Yee, P. (1996). Ghost Train. Illustrated by H. Chan. Toronto: Douglas & McIntyre / Groundwood.
Ghost Train draws on a poignant Chinese ghost story tradition to recount hard historical facts
about the dangers of building Canada’s railways. Harvey Chan's brooding illustrations perfectly
complement Yee's multi-layered text. It's a winning combination that earned both the 1996
Governor General's Award for children's literature and the 1997 Ruth Schwartz Children's Book
Award.
Review: http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol3/no6/ghost.html
Yee, Paul (2002). The Jade Necklace. Illustrated by G. Lin. New York: Crocodile Books.
This story about Chinese immigrants to Canada opens in their homeland, as Yenyee's fisherman
father gives her a jade pendant carved like a fish. When a typhoon blows up while he's out at sea,
she throws the necklace into the water to bargain for his life. Still, he drowns, leaving her family
penniless. Reluctantly, the girl accepts a job as caregiver to May-jen, the village merchant's
daughter, and accompanies them to the New World, where both girls are terribly homesick. When
May-jen nearly drowns in the ocean and Yenyee rescues her, miraculously finding the lost jade
pendant, it marks a turning point in the older girl's acceptance of their new home.
Author’s site (great photos): http://www.paulyee.ca/index.swf
References/Credits:
Some of the summaries are quoted from:
PIKA: Canadian Children's Literature Database http://collectionscanada.ca/pika/index-e.html
http://www.shopping.com/xPO-If_Youre_Not_from_the_Prairie_by_David_Bouchard#
CM: review of materials http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/title.html