The Canadian Children’s Book Centre continues its 50th anniversary celebrations by releasing the ultimate book list for reading with children!
For 50 years, the Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC) has celebrated stories that come from the minds and hearts of Canadian writers and illustrators. You will find many of them included in our 50 Must Read Canadian Picture Books: Recommended by the CCBC in Celebration of our 50th Anniversary. Spotlighting classics like Alligator Pie, written by Dennis Lee and illustrated by Frank Newfeld (1974), to present day favourites like One Can, by Lana Button and Eric Walters, illustrated by Isabelle Malenfant (2025), this list will take readers on a journey to explore the histories and experiences of people in Canada. Some titles will immerse you in beautiful prose, lyrical poetry or stunning illustrations. Others will cause you to laugh-out-loud at the sheer silliness.
“We encourage you to explore and share the list with the children (and adults) in your lives, in your classrooms, libraries, homes, and communities,” says Stephanie Wells, CCBC Executive Director. “Whether this list helps you rediscover nostalgic classics or find thoughtful new stories, you will be left with the long-lasting impact of meaningful books for children across places, time, and generations. Be sure to check out the list, read the books and talk about what you are reading. It will be time well spent and a great jumping off point to discover more favourite Canadian books!”
The value of reading cannot be understated, especially for children and young adults. Reading with young children sets them up for success on many levels. Reading teaches valuable social and critical thinking skills. It also correlates with stronger writing, language, and communication abilities. Additionally, reading has health benefits like improving sleep, reducing stress, and maintaining memory. Perhaps, most importantly, reading helps people to develop empathy, acceptance, and connection to the world around them. When children get to see themselves, their cultures, and their experiences reflected in the stories available to them, the feeling of support and belonging is irreplaceable.
Since 1976, the CCBC has amplified the voices of Canadian authors and illustrators through a variety of initiatives that connect young readers with books, authors, and illustrators. With over 750 new Canadian children’s books being released each year, the CCBC’s work to ensure Canadian books are discovered, read and celebrated is more critical now than ever.
For more information, please contact:
Stephanie Wells
Executive Director
The Canadian Children's Book Centre
stephanie@bookcentre.ca
About the Canadian Children's Book Centre
The Canadian Children's Book Centre was formed in 1976 with the belief that all Canadians should have the opportunity to read books created by Canadian authors and illustrators. Fifty years later, we are still guided by this same belief. Since our founding, we’ve become a key player in the growing world of Canadian children’s books. Each of our programs are accessible across Canada, reaching cities and remote communities alike.