APPLY TO HOST KAYLA WILLIAMS (IN PERSON)
BIOGRAPHY
Kayla Williams is an Inuk illustrator, author, and muralist from Goose Bay, Labrador. Her debut children's books, Aurora’s Journey and Labrador Skies, celebrate northern landscapes, Indigenous stories, and the power of resilience. A self-taught artist and mother of two, Kayla blends whimsical illustration with heartfelt storytelling to help young readers see themselves in the pages of books. Through her work, she hopes to inspire children across Labrador and beyond to embrace their culture, trust their inner strength, and dream big.
Home Location: Goose Bay, Labrador
Creator Type: Author-illustrator
Genres: Picture books
Website: biglanddesign.ca
Tour Region: Labrador
Target Audience: Grades 2 - 8
Cost: For one 60-minute presentation: $300 plus 15% HST
NOTE: The fee of $300 (plus tax) will be paid to The Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) upon receipt of an invoice from the CCBC. After Book Week, the CCBC will pay the author their presentation fee of $250 (plus taxes, if applicable).
PRESENTATION DESCRIPTIONS
Guided by Our Ancestors
Based on the picture book, Aurora’s Journey
Target Audience: Grades 4 - 8
Preferred group size: 15 - 30 students
Maximum group size: 35 students
In this interactive session, students explore how ancestral knowledge and cultural teachings shape the story of Aurora’s Journey. Through a short reading, personal storytelling, and a creative printable activity, students will reflect on the wisdom passed down in their own lives and how it helps guide them through challenges—just like Aurora.
Required equipment for in-person sessions: whiteboard or easel (optional), a way to display book pages or visuals (physical copy or screen)
Required equipment for virtual sessions: reliable internet connection, screen-sharing platform (Zoom, Teams, etc.), audio and video access for presenter and students
Required materials for both formats: Printable “Words I Carry” worksheet (PDF will be provided in advance); pencils, pens, or pencil crayons for students
Drawing the North
Based on the picture book, Labrador Skies
Target Audience: Grades 2 - 5
Preferred group size: 15 - 25 students
Maximum group size: 30 students
This cozy workshop invites students into the world of Labrador Skies to celebrate everyday moments in northern life. After a read-aloud and a behind-the-scenes look at how the book was made, students will create their own illustrated scene inspired by snow, stars, or home—encouraging connection, creativity, and pride in place.
Required equipment for in-person sessions: whiteboard or easel (optional), a way to display book pages or visuals (physical copy or screen)
Required equipment for virtual sessions: reliable internet connection, screen-sharing platform (Zoom, Teams, etc.), audio and video access for presenter and students
Required materials for both formats: blank drawing paper (8.5x11 is fine), pencils, markers, or pencil crayons for students
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Aurora’s Journey. Written and illustrated by Kayla Williams. Kegedonce Press 2025.
Labrador Skies. Written by Kayla Williams. Illustrated by Kayla Williams and Thamires Paredes. Inhabit Media, 2025.