The back-to-school season is here which means there are only a few more weeks of idle summer time for kids to enjoy. To liven up what remains of the season with local stories, we have a book list filled with imaginative adventures with animals, quirky illustrations, cultural (re)connections, and outdoor fun.
The Next Big Pigs by Ryan Uytdewilligen, illustrated by Charlotte Cho (Heritage House Publishing)
A farm boy with dreams of becoming a Broadway star acquires three talking, singing, dancing pigs and hatches an outrageous plan to escape to the big city.
Out now
Emerson the Elephant Seal by Ginger Ngo (Harbour Publishing)
A colourful, imagination-filled picture book for children aged 3-5, based on the true story of Emerson the elephant seal, who decided to abandon his home in the wilds for life in the bright city lights of Victoria, BC.
Out now
A Little Camper Love by Rayna Meakin (Heritage House Publishing)
An adorable board book that spreads joy and teaches kindness through whimsical illustrations of vintage campers.
Out now
Wild Strawberries by Emma Metallic and Natalie Laurin (Strong Nations Publishing)
Welcome to Cedar School! Join Liv, Tom, Gus, and Bell as they learn on the land and explore Mi’gmaw teachings with their teacher, Miss Sam, and the school’s Mi’gmaw Elder, Jen.
In this story, Jen and the class pick wild strawberries. Back at school, Jen makes strawberry jam. Wild strawberries grow throughout Mi’gmaw territory. Mi’gmaq harvest berries and other plants for food and medicine.
Out now
Tiny Hiker by Natasha Zimmers (Orca Book Publishers)
In this rhyming picture book, the tiny hiker is excited for her first backpacking trip to camp on the beach, but when the trail is longer, steeper and much more difficult than she expected, she has to find a way to keep going—even when she wants to give up.
This book is a joy to read aloud, and its rollicking cadence mimics the momentum of a hike—with delightful interjections from the tiny camper herself, like “Hey! Wait for me!”
Out now
Jenny’s Concrete Powwow by Shawna Lee Corbould (Medicine Wheel Publishing)
Jenny’s Concrete Powwow tells the story of a young Indigenous girl that attends her very first Powwow. Jenny doesn’t want to go because she would much rather be home in the city with her friends, but once she arrives at the reserve, she begins to feel a deep-rooted connection to nature, the Powwow, and the community. This unique and beautifully illustrated book addresses the challenges of urban Indigenous experience, validates the feeling of cultural identity disconnect, and considers ways to regain that connection. Through the beauty, joy, and spirit of powwows, Jenny demonstrates how children can take action to reclaim their Indigenous identity and pride.
New release
The Nature of Play: A Handbook of Nature-Based Activities for all Seasons by Delfina Aguilar, Clare Aitken, illustrated by Sabrina Arnault (Greystone Kids)
Filled with bespoke crafts and seasonal activities for readers young and old, The Nature of Play is the perfect resource for exploring and engaging with nature and your creative side—whether you’re at home, in your backyard, or a local park.
Out now