FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Toronto (August 27, 2025)—The Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC) is excited to announce the finalists for the following seven major awards celebrating Canadian books for young people:
- Richard Allen Chase Memorial Award ($2,500)
- Arlene Barlin Award for Science Fiction and Fantasy ($5,000)
- Jean Little First-Novel Award ($5,000)
- Amy Mathers Teen Book Award ($5,000)
- Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People ($5,000)
- Sharon Fitzhenry Award for Canadian Children’s Non-Fiction ($10,000)
- Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award ($20,000)
The nominated titles represent exceptional quality of work by Canadian book creators from across the country. Each nominated title captures the imaginations of young readers and was chosen by our juries to represent the best in their category.
The winners of the awards will be announced at an in-person event at DoubleTree by Hilton’s downtown Toronto location on Monday, October 27, where $52,500 in prize monies will be awarded. The event will be live streamed. Tickets go on sale mid-September.
“The CCBC is extremely proud to honour the finalists for the 2025 CCBC Book Awards,” says Stephanie Wells, CCBC Executive Director. “These outstanding books represent 20 publisher imprints, confirming that Canadian authors and illustrators are finding both the space and the right place to tell their stories. The 2025 finalists represent a delightful variety of stories and experiences from across the country, the world, and the imagination. Among this year’s finalists, young readers are sure to find books that connect with their own experiences, pique their curiosity, expand their knowledge, and open their hearts. We are grateful to the awards sponsors for making this all possible!"
A new prize has been added to this year’s program—the Sharon Fitzhenry Award for Canadian Children’s Non-Fiction. The $10,000 prize, generously supported by the Fitzhenry Family Foundation, honours the late Sharon Fitzhenry, former President & CEO of Fitzhenry & Whiteside. “Sharon had a passion for Canadian publishing, with a special place in her heart for both non-fiction and children’s literature,” says her sister Holly Doll, former CEO of Fitzhenry & Whiteside. “This award is the perfect way to keep her memory alive and to celebrate the books that she championed throughout her career.”
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award, which was first presented in 2006. Thanks to the generous support of A. Charles Baillie, a total of $350,000 in prize money has been awarded to Canadian authors and illustrators through this award.
In an effort to ensure that all youth have access to great Canadian children’s literature, the CCBC is continuing its partnership with the Centre for Equitable Library Access (CELA). CELA will feature the shortlisted titles that are currently available in their library catalogue.
For those interested in purchasing the shortlisted titles, visit the CCBC Book Awards page on Indie Bookstores. Not only will you be supporting the work of Canadian creators, but also your local independent bookseller.
The Canadian Children’s Book Centre is proud to share the nominated titles and the juries’ paise for why each title was selected. The finalists for each award are listed below. To download a PDF of this press release, click here.
Visit the CCBC’s YouTube channel to watch the playlist videos featuring our nominated titles.
For more information, please contact:
Stephanie Wells
Executive Director
The Canadian Children's Book Centre
416-975-0010 ext. 1
stephanie@bookcentre.ca
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Richard Allen Chase Memorial Award ($2,500)
Supported by Rocky Mountain Book Award and Alice Chase
Hummingbird / Aamo-binashee
Written and illustrated by Jennifer Leason (Dalmeny, SK)
Anishinaabemowin translation by Norman Chartrand (Camperville, MB) and Jennifer Leason (Dalmeny, SK)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 6-10
“A moving bilingual picture book that blends Indigenous storytelling with themes of love, resilience, connection, and healing... Leason invites readers on a powerful journey of personal awareness, self-discovery, and belonging—within family, community, and spirit… At the heart of the story is the hummingbird—a powerful symbol of strength, transformation, and renewal… The bold acrylic illustrations are simple but powerful. The changing colours reflect the main character’s emotions, moving from sadness to hope and finally healing… This understated yet profound story resonates across generations, leaving readers with a lasting sense of connection and purpose.”
I Wonder About Worlds: Discovering Planets and Exoplanets
Written by James Gladstone (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Yaara Eshet (Toronto, ON)
Owlkids Books
for ages 8-11
“Through emotive illustrations, intriguing facts, and heartfelt prose, author James Gladstone and illustrator Yaara Eshet invite readers to wonder deeply about the universe and all that lies beyond Earth… Informative sidebars add fun facts and recent discoveries, making science both engaging and easy to understand… The book reminds us that embracing curiosity and an adventurous spirit can lead to discoveries beyond imagination—and help us connect more profoundly to our planet and our shared humanity.”
Mighty Scared: The Amazing Ways Animals Defend Themselves
Written by Erin Silver (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Hayden Maynard (Kingston, ON)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 6-10
“With captivating language and vibrant artwork, Mighty Scared animates fresh and fascinating discoveries for curious young minds who delight in exploring wildlife… From vomiting birds to blood-squirting lizards, Silver’s playful writing and quirky facts are sure to keep readers laughing and learning… Illustrator Hayden Maynard contributes striking visuals that enhance the story in a way that encourages readers to keep flipping pages to uncover more thrilling surprises… The appealing artwork and layout make this an excellent choice for those who love animals and delight in the weird and wonderful side of nature.”
A Song for the Paper Children
Written by Christopher Tse (Whitehorse, YT)
Plumleaf Press
for ages 9-12
“Christopher Tse’s A Song for the Paper Children is a powerful fusion of written and visual poetry that confronts our nation’s complex history… Through bold black, white, and red typography, historical photos, documents, and Chinese characters, Tse tells a moving story of Chinese-Canadian history marked by racism, exclusion, and resilience… This work is at once a time capsule, a sharp commentary on the present, and a haunting glimpse into a future shaped by our willingness—or failure—to learn from the past.”
Two Pieces of Chocolate
Written by Kathy Kacer (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard (Sherbrooke, QC)
Second Story Press
for ages 9-12
“Two Pieces of Chocolate is a poignant story, inspired by true events, that captures a small yet deeply sincere moment—revealing the tenderness of the human spirit… It offers a unique and moving message of hope and kindness amid devastating circumstances, showing that even in the darkest times, compassion can endure... Grimard’s muted illustrations, done in greys and browns, evoke the bleakness of camp life… An informative afterword enriches the story, offering insight into the real survivors and what became of them after their release from the concentration camp.”
JURY MEMBERS: Michelle Dimnik, retired teacher, literacy consultant and founding member, Rocky Mountain Book Award: An Alberta Children's Choice Book Award; Aaron Fitchett, Principal, Lethbridge School Division; Ruth McMahon, Professional Librarian, Lethbridge School Division.
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Arlene Barlin Award for Science Fiction and Fantasy ($5,000)
Supported by Elly Barlin-Daniels
Fledgling
(The Keeper's Records of Revolution)
Written by S.K. Ali (Toronto, ON)
Kokila
for ages 14 and up
“Science fiction and fantasy intertwine in this futuristic story that mirrors our current world events… Fledgling introduces a world that is divided not only by class and social status, but by literal tiers in the Earth's atmosphere… With rich characters and atmospheric descriptions, readers will be transported to this version of Earth and may be left gasping as the adventure unfolds… At times violent and intense, prepare for your heart to soar and your heart to break as you discover who is the Fledgling.”
The Headmasters
Written by Mark Morton (Waterloo, ON)
Shadowpaw Press
for ages 12 and up
“A new science fiction novel that feels like it’s already a classic… Morton's The Headmasters invites the reader into a dystopian future that is rife with traditional science fiction world building. His work brings to light the challenges of control and the puzzles that come with trying to navigate a future when the past is lost to memory… This well-paced young adult novel captures the readers’ attention right from the beginning, engaging them in epic storytelling and reminding them that there is a time when it’s important to stand up and fight for what you believe in.”
Lockjaw
Written by Matteo L. Cerilli (Toronto, ON)
Tundra Books
for ages 14 and up
“Step into a story where one character at a time tells you part of their story in this atmospheric horror novel… On the surface, Cerilli’s Bridlington is an idyllic small town, but its inhabitants’ “going along to get along” attitude masks the rot beneath… Rooted in loss and regret, Cerilli creates a hazy reality for his readers that will leave them looking over their shoulders as they experience the power that comes from embracing all the layers of their identity and standing up for what's right in spite of the terror… Chills will run up and down your spine as the reader pieces together the mystery of this small-town ghost story.”
Waking the Dead and Other Fun Activities
Written by Casey Lyall (Strathroy, ON)
Greenwillow Books
for ages 8-12
“Casey Lyall combines humorous writing, rich character dynamics, and the importance of supporting each other through horror in Waking the Dead and Other Fun Activities… Finding the fun in death is not an easy task, but Lyall manages to do so successfully as things go seriously awry when Kimmy tries to independently use her inherited secret ability to wake the dead… This well-paced middle-grade novel has elements of magic, mystery, humour and one elusive cookie recipe in the mix.”
Where the Dark Stands Still
Written by A.B. Poranek (Cambridge, ON)
Margaret K. McElderry Books
for ages 14 and up
“Veiled in rich atmospheric description and the feelings of ancient Polish folklore, A.B. Poranek immerses you in a fantastical romantasy… Poranek offers an engaging fresh take on the theme of making-a-deal-with-the-devil while infusing her tale with elements of both Beauty and the Beast and Polish folklore... Captivating characters, including a magical house and a sardonic cat, are a great entryway into the wonders of fantasy genre for young adult readers. Poranek's beautiful writing will transport readers alongside the characters, leaving them wanting more.”
JURY MEMBERS: Fatma Faraj, Junior School Teacher-Librarian, Branksome Hall; Dr. Dave Jenkinson, Professor Emeritus, Children’s & YA Literature, Faculty of Education, University of Manitoba, and former Editor, CM: Canadian Review of Materials; Ashley Pamenter, Manager, Programs, Girl Guides of Canada and Co-Chair, Red Maple and White Pine Steering Committees.
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Jean Little First-Novel Award ($5,000)
Supported by Teresa James
Alterations
Written and illustrated by Ray Xu (Toronto, ON)
Union Square Kids
for ages 8-12
“A funny yet heartfelt story about a young Asian-Canadian kid who's trying to navigate his way through middle school… Drawing from his own memories of growing up in Toronto in the 1990s, Ray Xu has crafted a debut graphic novel to cherish… Hilarious and painfully honest, Alterations never shies away from the culture clashes that children of immigrants can face at school and home, while drawing readers in with engaging art and Kevin’s flights of imagination… The well-drawn characters and their struggles are memorable and endearing.”
Maya Plays the Part
Written by Calyssa Erb (Toronto, ON)
Annick Press
for ages 8-12
“Maya Plays the Part is a delightful first novel that offers insights into the challenges of an autistic preteen navigating social relationships, while celebrating all that makes Maya unique… This look into her life follows her ups and downs of trying to fit in socially while revealing her tender, earnest heart. Her obsession with musicals is infectious and Maya's strength not only lies in her ability to correct when she's gone astray, but in showing others being different is something to take pride in… Maya’s passion and enthusiasm will have readers rooting for her all the way.”
Teddy vs. the Fuzzy Doom
(Secrets of Ravensbarrow)
Written and illustrated by Braden Hallett (Kamloops, BC)
Annick Press
for ages 8-12
“Teddy vs. the Fuzzy Doom is a laugh-out-loud adventure with a warm heart at the centre… Hallett writes with absurdist humour as well as larger-than-life characters and situations that are sure to delight young readers. His expressive illustrations accompanying the tale add mischievous details to a heartfelt story about trying to fit in and finding your people in unexpected places… Extremely funny and a little bit creepy, this book will keep readers engaged from start to finish.”
JURY MEMBERS: Chad Lucas, author; Amy Mathers, reviewer and founder, Amy Mathers Teen Book Award; Sandra O'Brien, former Editor, Canadian Children’s Book News, and former teacher.
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Amy Mathers Teen Book Award ($5,000)
Supported by Accelerate360 Canada
Age 16
Written and illustrated by Rosena Fung (Toronto, ON)
Annick Press
for ages 12 and up
“A powerful graphic novel that connects three generations of women in one family and explores the hardships they all endured at age 16... Fung’s artwork is fluid and evocative, adding layers and depth to the linked stories. Using a change of colour to indicate each character’s narrative, universal threads of race, identity and beauty standards run throughout as motivations become clear and each of the three come to know one another better... A generational graphic novel with memoir elements exploring themes of history, secrets, and family.”
And Then There Was Us
Written by Kern Carter (Vaughan, ON)
Tundra Books
for ages 14 and up
“A deftly-told, deeply moving, nuanced exploration of the complexities of grief, generational trauma and coming of age which delves into the seemingly contradictory feelings arising from loss in tangent with abuse... Carter paints a vivid portrait of his main character, 18-year old Coi. Both deeply angry and struggling with her sorrow, she must come to terms with her estranged mother’s sudden death... A raw and emotional work with simple yet impactful prose... Carter captures the complexity of relationships with flawed people and the challenges with maintaining concern for others when in crisis.”
A Constellation of Minor Bears
Written by Jen Ferguson (Playa del Rey, CA)
Heartdrum
for ages 13 and up
“Featuring a diverse and authentic cast of mixed-race Indigenous characters...this compelling and immersive novel set during a long-distance hike along the Pacific Crest Trail, explores the rocky transition from childhood to adulthood as well as evolving long-term friendships, sibling bonds, identity and queerness... The three main characters, Molly, Tray and Hank, enrich the story with their unique perspectives, which gives added nuance and tension to the narratives... A reminder that life doesn’t always go according to our plans and that nature is a great equalizer in showing us how to just take it step by step.”
Fledgling
(The Keeper's Records of Revolution)
Written by S.K. Ali (Toronto, ON)
Kokila
for ages 14 and up
“This is a very original dystopian story that weaves nine characters into a thrilling story full of plot twists... The varying points of view, intricate layers and a diverse cast combine to create tension within a story of revolution, reflecting both sides of the conflict. Characters are flawed and fluid, changing as they come to awareness, which added realism and verisimilitude... Propulsive and powerful... Themes of bravery, selflessness, love and sacrifice anchored the tale in humanity.”
For She Is Wrath
Written by Emily Varga (Calgary, AB)
Wednesday Books
for ages 14 and up
“A tautly-plotted, vibrant and visceral tale of revenge and adventure in a world which draws from Pakistani mythology and culture, and retells the story of The Count of Monte Cristo, offering a feminist perspective... Riveting from the first page, For She Is Wrath is descriptive prose, immersive setting and revenge-driven action... The main characters are wonderfully depicted with complex arcs. The bonds of friendship are beautifully portrayed... The strong and feisty main character and fast-paced suspenseful plot will hook readers right from the beginning.”
The Lightning Circle
Written by Vikki VanSickle (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Laura K. Watson (Sackville, NB)
Tundra Books
for ages 12 and up
“A tender and timeless story about strong friendships and the ways we learn about ourselves when we listen and help others... Evocative and poignant, VanSickle’s novel in verse, in perfect synchronicity with Watson’s delightful and nostalgic illustrations, fully captures the magic of summer camp, the relationships that grow and blossom there, the joys and pains of growing up, and the deep abiding joy of building community... This nostalgic and poignant novel channels empathy, independence and the deep influence of peers—so much self-discovery can happen in a season... It is to VanSickle’s considerable credit that she is able to capture such depth of character, such universal themes of girlhood, and a wealth of experiences in so few carefully curated words.”
JURY MEMBERS: Maria Martella, bookseller and owner, Tinlids Inc.; Jo Treggiari, author and co-owner, Black Shop Books; Tara Truscott, teacher-librarian, York Region District School Board.
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Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People ($5,000)
Supported by the Canadian Children’s Book Centre’s Bilson Endowment Fund
Age 16
Written and illustrated by Rosena Fung (Toronto, ON)
Annick Press
for ages 12 and up
“This gorgeous graphic novel presents the lives of three generations of women, each when they are 16 years old. The historical periods are depicted in separate timelines, indicated by colour, and threads of topics such as body image, generational trauma, and stigma tie them together… Many young adult readers, and especially girls, will identify with Roz, and the complicated dynamics between mothers and daughters… The use of colour to separate the timelines not only sets the tone but mood of each story… Extensive historical notes, photos, and resources provide richness to all three periods.”
Eyes on the Ice
Written by Anna Rosner (Toronto, ON)
Groundwood Books
for ages 9-12
“Rosner’s engaging novel immerses readers into 1960s Czechoslovakia—from the looming presence of the state police to hidden papers and family secrets… Through careful world-building, Rosner creates an excellent picture of what it was like to live under a controlling regime, and the risks that people were willing to take to both combat and escape it… This absorbing story, fraught with tension, highlights a boy’s love of hockey, family loyalty, and the high stakes game of finding freedom while living under Soviet rule.
The Go-Between
Written by Jennifer Maruno (Burlington, ON)
Red Deer Press
for ages 9-12
“Rich in historical and cultural details, Maruno immerses readers in 1920s Vancouver and Gibson’s Landing in this story of adventure and courage... Sumi is only 12, but she takes on adult responsibilities, and navigates hardship, racism, friendship, and family dynamics…Young readers will definitely root for her… The included vocabulary, historical note, and interview with the author give depth to this often-overlooked topic.”
Song of Freedom, Song of Dreams
Written by Shari Green (Campbell River, BC)
Andrews McMeel Publishing
for ages 12 and up
“Green’s gripping novel in verse explores the familial, personal, and political complexities of living in late 1980s communist East Germany… This book is beautifully crafted, from the title page to the included historical sources. Helena navigates profound loss, burgeoning love, terrifying state surveillance, and divided loyalties, but it is her desire for the freedom to pursue her dreams that propels her choices… The novel-in-verse format is perfectly suited to the topic, demonstrating how a young artistic person might find expression under a totalitarian regime.”
Wings to Soar
Written by Tina Athaide (Telecula, CA)
Charlesbridge Move
for ages 10 and up
“This novel in verse gives voice to a child's-eye view of what it was like to be displaced and separated from loved ones. Living in a refugee camp in England during the 1970s, even young people were not shielded from the vitriol of the National Front… The main protagonist—spirited, resilient and determined 10-year-old Viva—is impossible to resist and through her readers are immersed into a little explored historical moment replete with themes of forced migration and dislocation, child refugees, family, loss and racism.”
JURY MEMBERS: K. Joan Harrison, Librarian, The Sacred Heart School of Montréal; Brandon Mitchell, author, illustrator and founder of Birch Bark Comics; Tracey Schindler, reviewer and former teacher; Gail de Vos (chair), author, storyteller and Adjunct (Associate) Professor, School of Library and Information Studies, University of Alberta.
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Sharon Fitzhenry Award for Canadian Children’s Non-Fiction ($10,000)
Supported by the Fitzhenry Family Foundation
All Consuming: Shop Smarter for the Planet
(Orca Think)
Written by Erin Silver (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Suharu Ogawa (Toronto, ON)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 9-12
“This informative title is bright, clear, concise, well-produced, and timely. It offers practical solutions for what everyday people can do to minimize waste for a healthier planet… In the midst of a world that has gone consumer crazy, Silver asks readers to stop and think about how our disposable society is affecting the planet and suggests we pay attention to what consuming means for the future, warning readers “Buy now, the planet pays later.” Ogawa’s illustrations also play an active role working with Silver’s text to deepen the conversation and add a little action to this stirring wake-up call.”
The Longest Shot: How Larry Kwong Changed the Face of Hockey
(Orca Biography)
Written by Chad Soon (Vernon, BC) and George Chiang (Stouffville, ON)
Illustrated by Amy Qi (Markham, ON)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 9-12
“With a wonderful narrative style and a mix of bright illustrations and photographs, this is an incredibly compelling and enlightening story of the amazing Larry Kwong—the first NHLer of Asian descent… Larry's story is important in making young readers aware of the shameful history of racism that the NHL is only slowly beginning to redress… Despite the racism and discrimination that he had to fight every step of his career, Larry Kwong never gave up and was an amazing hockey superstar… This is a story of resilience and an important chapter in Canadian hockey history; Larry Kwong's story will educate and warm hearts of readers young and old.”
Lost at Windy River: A True Story of Survival
Written by Trina Rathgeber (Calgary, AB)
Illustrated by Alina Pete (Surrey, BC)
Coloured by Jillian Dolan (Calgary, AB)
Orca Book Publishers
for ages 9-12
“In this beautifully illustrated graphic novel, Rathgeber immediately catches our attention with a compelling story of triumph and survival… The reader is drawn into this gripping story of a 13-year-old girl’s will and skill to survive the northern wilderness... This captivating story weaves traditional Indigenous knowledge throughout, educating young readers in ways that have been passed through families for generations… With smooth storytelling and great illustrations, this book is sure to thrill young (and young at heart) readers!”
Meet Jim Egan
(Scholastic Canada Biography)
Written by Elizabeth MacLeod (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Mike Deas (Salt Spring Island, BC)
Scholastic Canada
for ages 6-10
“Imagine being part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in the 1930s, when it was illegal to be gay in Canada… This inspirational book offers the reader an inside glimpse of a remarkable man who challenged bigotry and fought for equal rights. The storytelling is captivating, and the illustrations are bright and expressive… From Jim Egan's fight to make the voices of 2SLGBTQIA+ people heard in newspapers and magazines in the late 1940s to being the first openly gay man elected to public office in Canada, Egan fought for equal rights all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada.”
You Can Be an Activist: How to Use Your Strengths & Passions to Make a Difference
(CitizenKid)
Written by Charlene Rocha (Pickering, ON) and Mary Beth Leatherdale (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Drew Shannon (Toronto, ON)
Kids Can Press
for ages 11-14
“Have you ever wanted to change the world? Rocha and Leatherdale make it clear that activism means working hard to find out the right way to approach different kinds of action and mark a path clearly focusing on the how’s and why’s and what-to-do’s… What is especially striking is that the change-makers they feature aren’t just young people but people of a variety of ages, cultures and backgrounds and while it takes a global perspective it’s careful to include exceptional Canadian examples and references… This thought-provoking title serves as a guidebook, offering young people more than just a colourful and well-organized introduction to activism—it is also a call to action that empowers readers with the agency to make their voices heard.”
JURY MEMBERS: Jeffrey Canton, children's book reviewer, The Globe & Mail; Haneefa Corbie, Middle School Department Head, Selwyn House School; Colette Poitras, Métis librarian.
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Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award ($20,000)
Supported by A. Charles Baillie
A Face Is a Poem
Written and illustrated by Julie Morstad (Vancouver, BC)
Tundra Books
for ages 3-7
“Everyone has a face. Morstad invites readers to pay attention to the characteristics and expressions of their own faces and to think about all the faces they meet from day to day… The importance of recognizing diversity and the need for acceptance of any human is an important message that comes at such a pivotal moment in time… Poetic text, captivating illustrations, and thought-provoking questions woven throughout make for an innovative book that is sure to spark conversations and lead to deeper discussions.”
I’m Afraid, Said the Leaf
Written by Danielle Daniel (Little Current, ON)
Illustrated by Matt James (Toronto, ON)
Tundra Books
for ages 3-7
“A warm, reassuring story that quietly celebrates the interconnectedness of all living things… Young readers will connect with the emotions described throughout such as anxiety, fear, hunger, and loneliness… Gentle, rhythmic text and richly expressive illustrations combine to create a deeply layered picture book where words and images flow together in perfect harmony. A gem of a book that invites wonder, reflection and comfort.”
It Bears Repeating
Written by Tanya Tagaq (Toronto, ON)
Illustrated by Cee Pootoogook (Cape Dorset, NU)
Tundra Books
for ages 3-7
“A lively read-aloud that invites repeat visits, just as its title promises… This counting book is more than just teaching about numbers; it also includes the teachings of the Inuk language and the habits of polar bears… Spare, poetic text paired with expressive, endearing illustrations add up to a simply splendid counting book that engages readers on several levels.”
Mad at Dad
Written and illustrated by Janie Hao
(Toronto, ON)
Kids Can Press
for ages 3-6
“Everyone gets MAD at something at some time or another… Through animated artwork, playful typography, and inventive double-gatefold pages that surprise at key emotional moments, this cleverly designed book offers young readers a tactile, immersive experience to explore, empathize, and giggle their way through… An honest and compelling picture book about the big emotions of anger and frustration.”
SOS Water
Written and illustrated by Yayo (Montreal, QC)
Tradewind Books
for ages 4-8
“A punchy, spirited picture book bursting with wit, wonder, and wildly imaginative visual surprises... The journey story is inventive, the illustrations are sometimes quirky, and the environmental theme is vital… This story not only invites readers of all ages to think about the effects of climate change but to think about taking action to take care of our planet… Kids will be drawn in by the striking artwork and stay for the empowering message that even small voices can make big waves.”
JURY MEMBERS: Jade Lee, elementary teacher-librarian, Vancouver School Board; Janis Nostbakken, children’s media specialist; Larry Swartz, Instructor, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto and author of Teaching Tough Topics and Better Reading Now (Pembroke Publishers).
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About the Canadian Children’s Book Centre
The Canadian Children’s Book Centre is a national, not‐for‐profit organization founded in 1976. We are dedicated to encouraging, promoting and supporting the reading, writing and illustrating of Canadian books for young readers. Our programs, publications, and resources help teachers, librarians, booksellers and parents select the very best for young readers.