The Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC) has announced the finalists for eight major awards for Canadian children’s books. The nominated books represent some of the very best work by Canadian authors and illustrators from across the country.
Orca Book Publishers—BC’s largest children’s publisher—has had five titles shortlisted on the 2018 awards in four categories. The CCBC also released a quote from the jury members about each title, which we included below.
TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award
Speaking Our Truth: A Journey of Reconciliation
Written by Monique Gray Smith (Victoria, BC)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 9-13
“Speaking Our Truth takes on the daunting task of synthesizing the history and evolution of the residential school system through the modern lens of reconciliation… Weaving personal experience and Canadian society’s struggle to come to terms with a sorrowful and the haunting past, Smith bravely negotiates this politically sensitive terrain… Written in frank and accessible language, this is a must-have book that will educate children and adults alike.”
Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award
You Hold Me Up
Written by Monique Gray Smith (Victoria, BC)
Illustrated by Danielle Daniel (Hanmer, ON)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 3-7
“A seemingly simple picture book that conveys a valuable message for all ages… The distinctive and soft illustrations by Daniel enhance the positive message by Gray Smith about the power of companionship, compassion, respect and togetherness… This quiet book has a deep beauty and a universal message.”
John Spray Mystery Award
Blood on the Beach
Written by Sarah N. Harvey (Victoria, BC) and Robin Stevenson (Victoria, BC)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 12 and up
“A secluded setting with a motley group of strangers, at-risk teens and their adult counsellors, goes from misery to terror when one of the group goes missing and suspicions have everyone looking over their shoulders and trying to stay safe… Both the adult and young adult characters are relatable and there are some great plot twists including one final unexpected twist at the end.”
The Case of the Missing Mage (Tank & Fizz, Book 3)
Written by Liam O’Donnell (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Mike Deas (Salt Spring Island, BC)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 9-12
“A fun romp through worlds filled with goblins, trolls and elves, ingenious tech and magic, and a nefarious plot to kidnap leading wizards… The graphic-novel-style of this series really adds to the storytelling — making the characters as much fun to watch as they are to read about… It’s a bubbling cauldron of graphic mystery and laughs… and a great introduction to the mystery genre for younger readers.”
Amy Mathers Teen Book Award
Munro vs. the Coyote
Written by Darren Groth (Delta, BC)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 12 and up
“Groth offers readers a thoughtful and ultimately uplifting story about grief and healing, as well as difference and acceptance… Groth skillfully illustrates the personal challenges each person faces in dealing with trauma and loss, and reminds readers that while the journey to healing isn’t ever easy or straightforward, time and refocused energy can lessen the pain.”
The awards have various amounts of prize money attached, but this year TD Canada has raised the value of their sponsored awards a considerable amount from $30,000 to $50,000.
The winners of the English-language awards will be announced at a special gala event in Toronto on October 29, 2018.