SPORK. Kyo Maclear & Isabelle Arsenault, $18.95

His mum is a spoon, his dad is a fork and he’s a bit of both … he’s SPORK!

The Pirate of Kindergarten. George Ella Lyon, illustrated by Lynne Avril, $21.99

Ginny loves school — she loves art and reading and playing at recess. But Ginny is frustrated because she has trouble seeing all her favourite things. That is, until the day she gets her vision tested and finds out that she just needs a little help from an eye doctor to help her set things right.

The Monster Princess. D.J. Machale, $21.99

Deep in a cave, there’s a story it seems
Of a sweet little monster, with very big dreams …

Shopping with Dad. Matt Harvey & Miriam Latimer, $8.99

A shopping trip with Dad turns out to be anything but ordinary!

A Place Where Hurricanes Happen. Renée Watson, illustrated by Shadra Strickland, $22.99

Four friends describe their lives before, during and after Hurricane Katrina. Together they celebrate the resiliency and spirit of New Orleans and its people.

Put Me in a Book! Robert Munsch, $7.99

Hailey is really excited when a writer puts her in a book. But being in a book isn’t as much fun as it sounds — how is Hailey going to get OUT??

Gracie Meets the Sock Monster. Geeta Bagga, illustrated by Aylin Basar, $13.95

Ever wonder where the “other” sock goes? Follow Gracie as she goes on a magical adventure and finds out what happens to all those lost socks.

Proud to Be Inuvialuit. James Pokiak & Mindy Willett, $16.95

James Popiak grew up on the land, near the shores of the Arctic Sea. Join James and his family and learn about how the beluga whale is interlinked with Inuvialuit culture and history and learn about the traditional values and skills of his people.

Christian, the Hugging Lion.  Justin Richardson & Peter Parnell, $21.99

From the moment Ace and John brought Christian the lion cub home from a London department store, they knew they had created a special family. But Christian soon grew too big to live with them so Ace and John flew Christian to Africa to live with other lions. A year later they went to visit. Would Christian remember them?

Chester’s Masterpiece, with NO help from Mélanie Watt. $18.95

Mélanie Watt and her cat Chester are at it again! This time Chester has hidden all of Mélanie’s art supplies and taken over the writing of this book.

ROAR! Robert Munsch, illustrated by Michael Martchenko, $7.99 (ages 3-7)

When Isaac and Elena read a book about lions, all they want to do is RRRRRRROOOOOOOOAARRRRRRRRR!!

The Hermit Crab. Carter Goodrich, $9.50

Not everyone wants to be a hero …

I Will Be Especially VERY Careful! Lauren Child, $21.00

Lola’s best friend has an extremely fabulous and very fluffy new coat — and Lola REALLY wants to borrow it.

My Big Brother JJ. Odette Elliott, illustrated by Patrice Aggs, $11.95

Jasmine’s mother has to go to work, so big brother JJ is in charge. He thinks of lots of fun things for them him and Jasmine to do together, including a big surprise for Mum.

You’re Mean, Lily Jean. Frieda Wishinsky & Kady MacDonald Denton, $19.99

Sisters Carly and Sandy always play together until a new neighbor joins in and starts bossing everyone around.

The Delicious Bug. Janet Perlman, $16.95

When Willy and Wally get locked in battle over one delicious bug, sharing seems out of the question.

That Book Woman. Heather Henson, illustrated by David Small, $19.99

That Book Woman is a rare and moving tale that honors a special part of American history — the Pack Horse Librarians, who helped untold numbers of children see the stories amid the chicken scratch, and thus made them into lifetime readers.

The Apple-Pip Princess. Jane Ray, $19.00

Sometimes it’s the smallest things that make the biggest difference...

I is for Inukshuk: an Arctic Celebration. Mary Wallace, $19.95

This delightfully illustrated book looks at life in the Arctic for the people and animals who share this beautiful land.

A Coyote Solstice Tale. Thomas King, illustrated by Gary Clement, $14.95

Deadpan humour and marvelous watercolours tell the tale of coyote and his friends as they learn about giving from the heart — not the wallet.

Chester. Mélanie Watt, $8.95

Chester is a rude and self-centered fur ball, determined to have the last word. Can author and illustrator Mélanie Watt keep Chester from taking over her book?

Have I Got a Book for You! Mélanie Watt, $17.95

Mr. Al Foxwood is one persistent salesman! He will do just about ANYTHING to sell you this book.

A Gift. Yong Chen, $22.95

A gift has come for Amy, all the way from China. The package has arrived just in time for Chinese New Year, the most important holiday in the Chinese culture. At this time of year, it’s tradition to spend time with friends and family. Since Amy’s aunt and uncles live China, and are unable to make a new-year visit, they have sent their niece a special gift that expresses their love and their wish to keep the family together though they live far apart.

My School in the Rain Forest: How Children Attend School Around the World. Margriet Ruurs, $24.50 (ages 6-10)

From Afghanistan to Guatemala, this lovely photo essay chronicles the school day of children around the world.

Two of a Kind. Jacqui Robbins & Matt Phelan, $19.99 Ages 4-7

The ins and outs of being in and out. This is a sweet story about the ‘in-crowd’, the outcasts and what it means to be a true friend.

Oh No! Time to Go! A Book of Goodbyes. Rebecca Doughty, $17.99

Saying goodbye is hard — whether it’s Grandma leaving after a nice, long visit or your best friend moving away. But for each goodbye, there’s a new hello…

The Black Book of Colors. Menena Cottin, illustrated by Rosana Faria, $17.95

It is difficult for a sighted person to imagine what it is like to be blind. This groundbreaking, award-winning book endeavors to convey the experience of a person who can only see through his or her sense of touch, taste, smell or hearing.

Trout, Trout, Trout! (A Fish Chant). April Pulley Sayre, illustrated by Trip Park, $9.95

Freshwater fish + rhythmic text + bright, colourful and humourous illustrations = fabulous fun in Trout, Trout Trout!

I Am Canada. Heather Patterson, $6.99 (ages 4 to 8)

Bright photographs and simple text celebrate the many faces of Canada’s children, through the seasons and across the land.

We Are Extremely Very Good Recyclers. Lauren Child, $18.50

Charlie, his little sister Lola and all their friends are very good recyclers indeed. They have some extra-specially special tips for readers on how to take care of their planet and they’ve even included a completely useful and fun recycling poster!

Ruby Sings the Blues. Niki Daly, $8.50

Ruby loves to be LOUD. Her sound-blasting voice is driving her parents, neighbors, teachers and friends crazy! Will Ruby ever learn to use her volume control?

Luna and the Big Blur: a Story for Children Who Wear Glasses. Shirley Day, illustrated Don Morris, $12.95 (ages 4-8)

Fox Walked Alone. Barbara Reid, $8.99

Everyone knows the story of Noah and the Ark. But how did all the animals get there?

Stitchin’ and Pullin’ a Gee’s Bend Quilt. Patricia McKissack, illustrated by Cozbi Cabrera, $20.99

“Mother and daughter, grandmother and granddaughter, aunt and niece, friend and friend. For a hundred years, generations of women from Gee’s Bend have quilted together, sharing stories, trading recipes, singing hymns—all the while stitchin’ and pullin’ thread through cloth. Every day Baby Girl listens, watches, and waits, until she’s called to sit at the quilting frame. Piece by piece, she puzzles her quilt together—telling not just her story, but the story of her family, the story of Gee’s Bend, and the story of her ancestors’ struggle for freedom.”

The Littlest Sled Dog. Michael Kusugak, illustrated by Vladyana Krykorka, $19.95

Igvillu is a little dog who is not afraid to dream big!

Jenneli’s Dance. Elizabeth Denny, Illustrated by Chris Auchter, $12.95

Jenneli is a shy young girl who feels that she is nothing special, until she learns about the Métis Red-River Jig from her Grandma Lucee. One day, Grandma Lucee enters Jenneli into a jigging contest at the Lakeside Fair. Jenneli is scared and excited, but with Grandma Lucee's encouragement, love and support, Jenneli places her self-doubts and fears aside to dance in the contest.

Jenneli's Dance is a story that instills a sense of pride in the Métis culture, and deals with issues of overcoming low self-esteem.

Looking for Miza: the True Story of the Mountain Gorilla Family Who Rescued One of Their Own. Juliana Hatkoff, et al, $18.99

Miza is a baby gorilla. This is her story.

Celebrate Diwali with Sweets, Lights and Fireworks. Deborah Heiligman, $7.95

Part of the National Geographic series Holidays Around the World, this beautifully illustrated book shows the joy and excitement that is Diwali.

Just One Goal! Robert Munsch, illustrated by Michael Martchenko, $7.99

Ciara wants to build a rink on the river behind her house — but nobody wants to help!

African Animals ABC. Philippa-Alys Browne, $10.50

Explore the alphabet and Africa’s wildlife through the eyes of a southern African artist.

How I Learned Geography. Uri Shulevitz, $18.95

“Having fled from war in their troubled homeland, a boy and his family are living in poverty in a strange country. Food is scarce, so when the boy’s father brings home a map instead of bread for supper, at first the boy is furious. But when the map is hung on the wall, it floods their cheerless room with color. As the boy studies its every detail, he is transported to exotic places without ever leaving the room, and he eventually comes to realize that the map feeds him in a way that bread never could.”

Snow Day! Werner Zimmerman, $7.99

YES! It’s a snow day! Two boys scramble outdoors for a day of hockey and tag and building a snow fort.

The Best Eid Ever. Asma Mobin-Uddin, illustrated by Laura Jacobsen, $22.00

It's Eid, and at the prayer hall, Aneesa meets two sisters who are refugees. With their father, they have fled from their war-torn country. Aneesa can't stop thinking about the girls and what Eid must be like for them. That's when Aneesa comes up with a plan to help the girls celebrate Eid and make it the best Eid holiday ever.

Houndsley & Catina. James Howe, illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay, $6.50 (ages 5-7)

Meet Houndsley and Catina — they are the very best of friends!

Houndsley & Catina and the Birthday Surprise. James Howe, illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay, $6.50 (ages 5-7)

What Are You So Grumpy About? Tom Lichtenheld, $7.95

Did you get up on the wrong side of the bed? Were all your favorite clothes in the laundry? Did your brother/sister TOUCH you?

What Are You So Grumpy About takes all the tiny (or not so tiny) things that can be annoying and makes them funny instead. Tom Lichtenheld's colorful, laugh-out-loud images are full of fantastic details that will be a hit with readers of all ages.

Math Curse. Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Lane Smith, $12.00

“Did you ever wake up to one of those days where everything is a problem? You have 10 things to do, but only 30 minutes till the bus leaves. Is there enough time? You have 3 shirts and 2 pairs of pants — can you make 1 good outfit? Don't worry — it's just the Math Curse striking!”

Mademoiselle Moon. Marie-Louise Gay, $9.95

“This is a poetic tale about love and friendship between two extraordinary characters, Mademoiselle Moon and Mister Sun. Best friends since the dawn of time; they only catch glimpses of each other because of their busy schedules. But when Mademoiselle Moon loses her job, Mister Sun finds the time to help her. After all, isn't that what friends are for?”

My Dadima Wears a Sari. Kashmira Sheth, illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi, $21.95

“Author Kashmira Sheth provides young readers with a unique view of Indian culture and tradition through this affectionate, sensitive portrait of a grandmother and her American granddaughter. Illustrator Yoshiko Jaeggi's sweeping, colorful, and fanciful watercolor illustrations capture the extraordinary bond of love that unites families across generations despite cultural differences. A note from the author and instructions for wrapping a sari are included.”

May I Pet Your Dog? The How-To Guide for Kids Meeting Dogs (and Dogs Meeting Kids). Stephanie Calmenson, illustrated by Jan Ormerod, $10.95 (ages 5 to 8)

“The right way for a child to approach a dog to ensure that the first connection is a complete success begins with this question to the owner: “May I pet your dog?” Stephanie Calmenson addresses this valuable yet overlooked topic with care and precision. Unique and straightforward, this is the essential guide to bringing children and dogs together—for kids and parents alike.”

Mama's Saris captures an elegant snapshot of every girl's wish to play dress up.

Good Sports: Rhymes about Running, Jumping, Throwing and More. Jack Prelutsky & Chris Raschka, $21.95

Celebrate the joy of playing sports and having fun! Whether it’s baseball or soccer, boys or girls, winning or losing, excelling or being a happy klutz these short and happy rhymes sing the praises of all-year-round games.

A Very Unusual Dog. Dorothy Jean Harris & Kim LaFave, $7.99

Jonathan has an unusual dog. It likes to go to the park and watch TV and eat toast crumbs. And it’s invisible. His big sister says Dog isn’t real, but Jonathan and Grandma know better. This lovely story about imagination and sharing was a finalist in the Governor General’s Award for Children’s Illustration.

Five Little Gefiltes. Dave Horowitz, $16.00

When five curious young gefilte fish have the chutzpah to sneak out of their jar and set off to explore the world, Mama Gefilte isn’t too happy to see her little ones leaving home. But she’s taught them well, and at the end of their adventures, each one proves himself a mensch — making Mama one proud gefilte indeed. Dave Horowitz’s playful rhyming tale, its illustrations packed with comic asides, will have readers giggling out loud and looking for opportunities to practice their Yiddish — with help from the handy glossary at the end of the book.

It’s OK to Be Me! Just Like You I Can Do Almost Anything! Jennifer Moore-Mallinos, $8.50

From a child’s point of view, life can often seem difficult, but this brightly illustrated book encourages children never to be afraid of a challenge.

Your Family Tree. Núria Roca, Illustrated by Rosa M. Curto, $8.50

Your Family Tree uses attractive color illustrations and easy-to-follow text to describe all the people that small children first come to know: parents, brothers and sisters, grandparents, and cousins. Activities for children appear at the back of the book, followed by a two-page section for parents, with tips on explaining family trees in more detail. (Ages 4–7)

Secret of the Dance. Alfred Scow & Andrea Spalding, illustrated by Darlene Gait, $19.95

In 1935, an eight-year-old boy slipped from his bed late at night and watched as his family defied the government. Masked figures danced by firelight to the beat of the drum as young Watl’kina saw his elders dancing in a ceremony older than time.

Kwakwa’ka’wakw Elder Alfred Scow and award-winning author Andrea Spalding tell the story of a traditional — and once forbidden — ceremony that lies at the very heart of Aboriginal culture.

The Night Walker. Richard Thompson, $9.95

The Night Walker is a wonderful tale of mythical beasts and First Nation folklore. The beautiful illustrations by Martin Springett bring this story of a boy and his imagination to life.

Sorry! Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Maurie Manning, $19.95

Jack's friend Sam seems to know how to get away with just about anything. But does an apology count if you don’t really mean it?

Are You Quite Polite? Silly Dilly Manners Songs by Alan Katz and David Catrow. $18.99

“Songwriter and comedy writer extraordinaire Alan Katz has done it again! Turning his attention to the subject of good and bad manners, he has created a hilarious new guide to manners that kids will love to follow — laughing all the way! With brilliantly funny pictures by illustrator and cartoonist David Catrow, this new collection promises hours of well-mannered silly dillyness for kids everywhere!”

Are You Shy? Núria Roca, illustrated by Marta Fàbrega, $8.50 (ages 4 to 7)

Extreme shyness can become a problem that affects a child’s social development. This book gives younger kids ways to cope with their shyness. A short section at the back of this book offers advice to parents.

Children of divorced parents are sometimes confused or troubled when one parent decides to remarry with gentle text and sweet illustrations, this book offers them reassurance.

Getting lost in a public place and being unable to find Mom or Dad is a frightening and potentially dangerous experience for younger children. This book tells children—and parents—what to do.

This delightful story encourages children to value the relationship they have with their grandparents.

A is for Algonquin: an Ontario Alphabet. Lovenia Gorman & Melanie Rose, $19.95

A is for Algonquin: an Ontario Alphabet introduces young readers to all the beauty of this spectacular province. Written with the charm and knowledge of a life long resident, A is for Algonquin teaches youngsters of all ages about Ontario's inhabitants, history, flora and fauna, movers and shakers.

Also in this series:

C is for Chinook: an Alberta Alphabet. Dawn Welykochy & Lorna Bennett, $24.95
Loonies and Toonies: a Canadian Number Book. Mike Ulmer & Melanie Rose, $21.95
M Is For Maple: a Canadian Alphabet. Mike Ulmer & Melanie Rose-Popp, $12.95
P is for Puffin: a Newfoundland and Labrador Alphabet. Janet Skirving & Odell Archibald, $24.95
S is for Spirit Bear: a British Columbia Alphabet. G. Gregory Roberts & Bob Doucet, $24.95
Z is for Zamboni: a Hockey Alphabet. Matt Napier, illustrated by Melanie Rose, $9.95

J Is for Jamaica. Benjamin Zephaniah, with photographs by Prodeepta Das, $17.95

“From Cricket to Pumpkin, from Hummingbird to Yam — this is a photographic alphabet showing Jamaica in all its colourful diversity. In vibrant rhyming verse, Benjamin Zephaniah explores some of the sights, sounds and tastes of Jamaica, from the bustling capital of Kingston, to the peaceful and serene Blue Mountain. This is a perfect way to introduce children to this small and beautiful Caribbean island with a big heart.”

"Imagine a night…when snow white sheets grow crisp and cold and someone whispers…'Follow me'."

My Grandfather Is a Magician: Work and Wisdom in an African Village. Ifeoma Onyefulu, $12.95

“This is the story of a little Nigerian boy who doesn’t know what job to do when he grows up. His father teaches in a school, his mother owns a bakery, one aunt is a doctor, and another aunt makes pots. But his grandfather seems wiser and more interesting than any of them — for he is a traditional healer who uses the ancient knowledge of plants and trees to help his people. Award-winning author Ifeoma Onyefulu presents a vibrant view of African village life in this book for children of all cultures.”

What a Family! A Fresh Look at Family Trees. Rachel Isadora, $24.00

“Did you ever wonder where you got your freckles, or your weird toes, or that astounding ability to wiggle your ears? Do you know the difference between a second cousin and a first cousin once removed? Families are a real puzzle, especially a family as big as Ollie’s. But with Grandpa Max’s help, Ollie navigates his family tree and sees the many things all these different people have in common as well as the things they don’t! A book as useful as it is entertaining with fabulous portraits by a Caldecott Honor artist.”

Eddie Longpants. Mireille Levert, $16.95

A strikingly fresh and gentle book about learning to appreciate differences in ourselves and others.

Bruno Dreams of Ice Cream. Peter Whitfield, illustrated by Nancy Bevington, $19.95

Zen Tails are classic philosophical stories adapted and beautifully illustrated for children. Each book includes a moral as well as the original Zen tale. In Bruno Dreams of Ice Cream, everyone has an ice cream except Bruno and he can't get ice cream off his mind.

The Ice Cream Store. Dennis Lee, $12.95

"full of the rhythmic nonsense verse and wordplay that have made Dennis Lee the poet laureate of the Canadian kids' world."

A Blue So Blue. Jean-François Dumont, $17.95

The adventure begins with a little boy's marvelous dream of a perfect blue, a blue both soft and strong; a blue so blue you want to curl up inside it. Armed with a paintbrush, he travels the globe in search of this special color only to realize that what he was looking for was right in his very own home after all.

Shades of People. Shelley Rotner & Sheila Kelly, $8.95

Beautiful photographs of children show the joys of family, friendship and diversity.

Not All Princesses Dress in Pink. Jane Yolen & Heidi Stemple, Illustrated by Anne-Sophie Languetin, $19.99

These princesses don’t let fancy clothes get in their way. They dig in the dirt, kick soccer balls and splash in muddy puddles and they’re dressed for play!

Stella, Star of the Sea.  Marie-Louise Gay, $7.95

Stella and her little brother Sam are spending the day at the sea. Stella has been to the sea before and knows all the secrets!

Owls See Clearly at Night: a Michif Alphabet. Julie Flett, $18.95

From Atayookee! To Lii Zyeu — an introduction to the Michif language of the Métis people.

My Father Knows the Names of Things. Jane Yolen, illustrated by Stéphane Jorisch, $19.99

Our Grandparents: a Global Album.  Maya Ajmera, Sheila Kinkade & Cynthia Pon, $7.99 (ages 4 and up)

Vibrant photographs capture the joy and affection shared by grandparents and grandchildren around the world.

Miss Brooks Loves Books! (and I Don’t). Barbara Bottner, illustrated by Michael Emberley, $22.99

A librarian and a contrarian face off in this tale of a reluctant reader.

Mathieu Da Costa: First to Arrive. Itah Sadu, illustrated by Roy Condy, $24.95

This delightful picture book introduces Mathieu Da Costa, the free African explorer and translator who came here with early French explorers Samuel de Champlain and Pierre Dugua de Monts.

Mama Miti. Donna Jo Napoli, illustrated by Kadir Nelson, $21.99

Stunning colorful collages illustrate the story of Nobel Peace Prize recipient Wangari Maathai, who changed her country, one tree at a time.

Nasreen’s Secret School: a True Story from Afghanistan. Jeanette Winter,  $21.99

Young Nasreen has not spoken a word to anyone since her parents disappeared. In despair, her grandmother risks everything to enroll Nasreen in a secret school for girls.

Based on a true story from Afghanistan, this inspiring book will touch readers deeply as it affirms both the life-changing power of education and the healing power of love.

Perfect Snow. Barbara Reid, $19.99

Barbara Reid’s beautiful art depicts the joy and exhilaration that comes with the first true snowfall of winter.

Who Is In Your Family? A Celebration in Diversity. Susan Bowman, illustrated by Poppy Moon, $180.95 (ages 4-8)

In this full-color, illustrated book, children describe their families including what they like to do together. The wonderfully illustrated drawings bring out the uniqueness of each family. Children are encouraged to describe their own families and create some fun activities they can do together. Some of the families described include:

Parent in the military • Single parent • Incarcerated parent •Adoptive parents •Foster parents • Multicultural parents •Same-sex parents •Terminally ill parents • and others …

Alego. Ningeokuluk Teevee, $17.95 (ages 5-8)

Alego is a beautiful, simple story about a young Inuit girl who goes to the seashore with her grandmother to collect clams for supper. Along the way she discovers tide pools brimming with life and colour. Written in Inuktituit and English.

Wanda’s Freckles. Barbara Azore, illustrated Georgia Graham, $21.99

Wanda would love to make her troublesome freckles disappear, but everytime she tries it just causes more trouble.

Two Old Potatoes and Me. John Coy, illustrated by Carolyn Fisher, $8.99

Two Old Potatoes and Me unfolds over the course of a growing season as a father and daughter move forward after divorce and create a tradition of their own.

Sugar Plum Ballerinas: Plum Fantastic. Whoopi Goldberg, illustrated by Maryn Roos, $6.50 (ages 6 and up)

Not only is Alexandrea Petrakova Johnson a terrible dancer, but she's also got a rotten case of stage fright! Al's ballet classmates are going to have to use all the plum power they’ve got to coach this scary fairy!

Sugar Plum Ballerinas: Toeshoe Trouble. Whoopi Goldberg, illustrated by Maryn Roos, $6.50 (ages 6 and up)

Brenda prides herself on her logical and orderly mind. She studies anatomy books to get a twelve-year head start on medical school, and idolizes genius Leonardo daVinci. But things go haywire when her spoiled cousin Tiffany comes to visit.

Big Bear Hug. Nicholas Oldland, $16.95

There once was a bear so filled with love and happiness that whenever he came across another living thing, he would give it a hug – until he crossed paths with a man chopping down a tree! This light-hearted tale tells about the awesome power of a hug.

Celebrate Ramadan & Eid Al-Fitr with Praying, Fasting and Charity. Deborah Heiligman, $7.95

Celebrate Ramadan & Eid Al-Fitr is illustrated with beautiful full-colour photos of children and families around the world as they fast, pry and celebrate during this holy time of the year. National Geographic’s Holidays around the World is a diverse, informative series that introduces children to a varied selection of religious and cultural holidays presented from a global perspective.

Horace and Morris Say Cheese (which makes Dolores sneeze!) James Howe, illustrated by Amy Walrod, $19.99

Horace, Morris and Dolores love their cheese. But what happens when Dolores finds out she’s allergic to her favorite food?

Big and Small, Room for All. Jo Ellen Bogart, illustrated by Gillian Newland, $20.99 (ages 4-9)

From the immensity of the cosmos to things too small to see, this gorgeous book is a celebration of how we are all connected.

Down the Drain! Robert Munsch, illustrated by Michael Martchenko, $7.99

Robert Munsch is back with the story of Adam, who HATES to take baths!

Victoria Goes to Brazil. Maria de Fatima Campos, $22.95 (ages 6-10)

Victoria travels with her Mum form their home in England to Brazil where Victoria gets to meet her cousins, aunts and uncles, and make many new friends on a visit that is far too short!

What Should I Make? Nandini Nayar, illustrated by Proiti Roy, $15.99 (ages 4-8)

While his mother makes chapattis, Neeraj plays with his own ball of dough. What should he make with it?

Bippity Bop Barbershop. Natasha Anastasia Tarpley, illustrated by E. B. Lewis, $7.99 (ages 4-9)

Delightful watercolour illustrations, cheerful depictions of community and family – this warm, reassuring story beautifully depicts a special ritual between father and son.

My Great Big Mamma. Olivier Ka, illustrated by Luc Melanson, $18.95

A little boy tells us proudly how big and wonderful his mother is — from how soft she is, to how loving she is, to how wonderful it is to sit on her lap on the bus. When his mother goes on a diet, "because of what other people say," he is outraged and becomes a picky eater himself to show her how foolish she is being. There can be no doubt that for this child, his mother is great just the way she is. This book is a remarkably life-affirming story about a young child who knows that a person should be loved for being just exactly who and what they are.

My People. Langston Hughes, photography by Charles R. Smith Jr., $21.00

Langston Hughes’ classic, simple poem My People is brought to life with the beautiful portrait photography of poet, writer, activist and photographer Charles R. Smith, Jr.

The Story Blanket. Ferida Wolff & Harriet May Savitz, illustrated by Elena Odriozola, $21.95

All the children in the village loved to settle down on Babba Yarrah’s big old blanket to listen to her stories…

Too Perfect. Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Lisa Fields, $19.99

Maisie thinks her classmate Kayla is perfect. She gets top grades, she’s a star on the soccer team and she’s pretty and popular. As Maisie gets to know Kayla, she begins to question whether being perfect is really so wonderful. Author and child-advocate Trudy Ludwig explores the costs of perfectionism and the freedom that comes with accepting one’s self.

Celebrate Hanukkah with Light, Latkes and Dreidels. Deborah Heiligman, $7.95

Celebrate Hanukkah brings the holiday to life with photographs of children and families around the world as they remember the story of the Maccabees and the rededication of the temple. Part of the National Geographic series Holidays around the World.

Let’s Talk About Race. Julius Lester, illustrated by Karen Barbour, $7.50

Dramatic, vibrant illustrations help tell the unique stories that make each of us special.

Elephant Dance: a Journey to India. Theresa Heine, illustrated by Sheila Moxley, $9.99

Join Ravi as he experiences his grandfather’s captivating stories about India, along with fascinating facts about India’s animals, food, culture and religions.

We Feel Good Out Here. Julie-Anne André & Mindy Willett, photographs by Tessa Macintosh, $16.95

The Delta is My Home. Tom McLeod & Mindy Willett, photographs by Tessa Macintosh, $16.95

With vivid, beautiful photos, these two books about the diverse lands and cultures of Canada’s Northwest Territories share real stories of everyday life in the North.

Mikissuk’s Secret. Isabelle Lafontana, illustrated by Barroux, $6.99

Mikissuk dreams of going hunting with her brother on his big dogsled, Can she convince him that she is big and strong enough to ride along?

Includes six pages of information about the animals, people and geography of Nunavut.

Our Global Community Series

With beautiful, full-colour photographs and simple text these books introduce young children to the global community. (K to Grade 3)

Schools. Lisa Easterling, $6.95
Games. Lisa Easterling, $6.95
Clothing. Lisa Easterling, $6.95
Markets. Cassie Mayer, $6.95
Families. Lisa Easterling, $6.95

Lily and the Paper Man. Rebecca Upjohn, illustrated by Renné Benoit, $14.95

Walking with her mother on the way home from school one day, Lily runs straight into a gruff and untidy-looking man selling papers on the street. Afraid to run into him again, Lily starts insisting on taking the bus home every day. But when the weather turns cold, Lily sees the Paper Man differently; she sees his bare toes through the holes in his boots and his thin shirt through the holes in his coat. Lying in her cozy bed at night, wondering how the Paper Man stays warm, Lily comes up with a wonderful idea...

Looking for Loons. Jennifer Lloyd, illustrated by Kirsti Anne Wakelin, $17.95

The perfect picture book to remember those wonderful days at the cottage.

I Am Latino: the Beauty in Me. Sandra Pinkey & Myles Pinkey, $21.50

“I Am Latino: the Beauty in Me is a celebration of Latino children in all of their various shades, cultures, and customs. A poetic, affirmative text accompanies the bright and striking photographs of children and uses the five senses to take the reader on a tour of Latino foods, music, language, and more.”

Who’s In Maxine’s Tree? Diane Carmel Léger & Darlene Gait, $21.95

A giant Sitka spruce and an endangered seabird protect each other from extinction in an old growth forest on Vancouver Island.

Celebrate! It’s Cinco de Mayo! Janice Levy, $8.95

Simple craft ideas and activities add to the fun in this happy holiday book that tells the story of Mexico’s favorite holiday.

Sophie and the Sea Monster. Don Gillmor, illustrated by Michael Martchenko, $6.99

Sophie is a worrier. She worries about snapping dogs and thunderstorms and losing her homework. And now there is a sea monster under Sophie’s bed! She’s afraid to look at him — but the sea monster is even more afraid to come out! It turns out that friendship is stronger than fear and soon Sophie and the sea monster are having adventures and together they learn not to be so worried about everything.

One Well. Rochelle Strauss, illustrated by Rosemary Woods, $19.95 (Grades 3 and up)

Almost 70 percent of Earth’s surface is covered with water. And all that water is connected — every raindrop, lake, underground river and glacier is part of a single global well. A single splash can sprout a seed, quench a thirst, provide a habitat, generate energy and sustain life. How we treat the water in the well will affect every species on the planet, now and for years to come. One Well shows how every one of us has the power to conserve and protect our global well — and why we need to pay attention.

It’s Hard Being a Kid! Jennifer Moore-Mallinos, $8.50

“Boys and girls will empathize with the little girl in this book. She has to go to school, do homework, and eat vegetables that she doesn’t like. It seems to her that grownups are lucky, because they can do as they please. This story demonstrates that everybody has obligations to meet—especially grownups—and most of the time, it’s more fun to be a kid.”

Class Clown. Robert Munsch, illustrated by Michael Martchenko, $6.99

Leonardo has been funny all his life — everyone thinks so! Except his teacher Mrs. Gomez who tries to get Leonardo to stop making all the kids in class laugh. He tries and tries … and tries again, but he just can’t stop being the class clown.

How to Tame a Bully. Nancy Wilcox Richards, $5.99 (ages 6 to 10)

Lauren is looking forward to grade three — her best friend is in her class and they have the BEST teacher in the school, Ms. MacCarthur!

But then her luck changes — the biggest bully in the school is Bethany, who picks a seat right next to her. For weeks, school is no fun at all, until Lauren figures out how to tame this bully.

What Do Teachers Do (after YOU Leave School)? Anne Bowen & Barry Gott, $19.95

“What do teachers do when the bell rings at three? Once the students go home, teachers finally have the run of the school. They skate down the halls, have a food fight in the cafeteria, even mix up wild concoctions in the science lab with disastrous results! All night long, teachers are busy goofing off at school. Kids will never look at their teachers the same way after reading this book!”

“Arriving first on the island of Hong Kong, Shanyi goes by train to Panyu in mainland China to see where her grandmother was born, visits her family's 700-year-old ancestral hall and embarks on a busy schedule of sightseeing, meeting relations, eating and shopping. From red bean pie to lunar calendars, from firecrackers to dragons, she learns about the Chinese way of life and returns home delighted with the land of her grandparents.”

Bicycles: a World Show-and-Tell Book. Kate Petty, $8.95

Children from all over the world introduce themselves and their bicycles in this colourful book. Pupils will see the similarities and differences in the ways we live — some people use bicycles to play with and others to get to work. Beautiful photographs feature children from countries as diverse as Kenya and Vietnam, and a world map will help children discover the world they live in.

If I Had a Dog. Carolyn Jackson, illustrated by France Brassard, $22.95

Whether they’re small or big dogs, working or guard dogs, old or young dogs, even aggressive dogs, Maxine learns how best to deal with each situation. And though she aches to have them all, she is about to find out that the best dog is her own dog — the squiggly surprise her parents have waiting for her.

Written so that young children can learn to “read” dog language, the veterinarian-approved information is presented in a charming storyline that is sure to appeal to young children.

Family vacations are supposed to be something to look forward to. Unless, that is, your parents have a habit of turning every outing into a risky proposition — by accident, of course.

The Secret Knowledge of Grown-Ups. Revealed & illustrated by David Wisniewski, $7.50 (ages 7 and up)

"Don't pick your nose!" "Don't jump on the bed!" "Don't play with your food!"

One fearless grown-up risks his neck (and his dignity) to discover the truth behind all the rules that parents are always spouting. What he learns will shock you!

Caramba. Marie-Louise Gay, $17.95

Caramba is a fat, furry, striped cat with a big problem. "Every single cat in the world can fly," he sighs, "except me!" Caramba would love to swoop and glide between the clouds, to feel the wind whistling through his fur. He tries to soar into the sky over and over again but always lands flat on his face, until finally he sadly accepts that he is earthbound. "Don't be such a scaredy-cat," cry his cousins. "All cats are meant to fly!" They grab his paws and whisk him up into the sky for an impromptu flying lesson that ends with a big splash… and a surprising discovery in this beautifully illustrated story with a special message of self-acceptance.

Our Teacher’s Having a Baby. Eve Bunting, illustrated by Diane de Groat, $9.50

This wonderful, warm and beautifully illustrated story is about a first-grade class and their year of excitement, anticipation and anxiety and joy over the pregnancy and birth of their beloved teacher’s baby.

Super Silly Sayings that are Over Your Head: a Children's Illustrated Book of Idioms. Catherine Snodgrass, $19.50

This wonderful, fun and beautifully illustrated book is for anyone who struggles to understand what people mean when they say things that — taken literally — simply don't make sense.

A Bad Case of Stripes. David Shannon, $8.99

Camilla Cream is very, very worried about what other people think of her. In fact, she's so worried that she's about to break out in... a bad case of stripes!

Forgiving a Friend. Virginia Kroll, $17.95

Jason Takes Responsibility. Virginia Kroll, $21.95

Long Night Moon. Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Mark Siegel, $25.50

A beautiful meditation on the secrets revealed under the light of each month's full moon.

The Three Questions. Jon J. Muth, $25.99

Young Nikolai seeks counsel from Leo, the wise old turtle who lives in the mountains.

First Grade Stinks! Mary Ann Rodman, $11.95

Haley and her friend have been looking forward to the start of school, but first grade is not at all what Haley expected. Writing is hard work. And the day is sooooooo long!

Walter the Farting Dog. William Kotzwinkle & Glenn Murray, illustrated by Audrey Colman, $19.95

Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale. William Kotzwinkle & Glenn Murray, illustrated by Audrey Colman, $24.00

The stories of Walter the Farting Dog are based on a real-life dog who lived in Fredericton many years ago, who shared Walter's most unfortunate attribute — chronic flatulence. Kids will find these stories hilarious, but the books also have much to say about misjudging others and unconditional love.

The Boy Who Grew Flowers. Jen Wojtowicz, illustrated by Steve Adams, $22.95

Enchanting illustrations help tell this humorous and lovely tale about the power of kindness and acceptance. The Boy Who Grew Flowers is the story of a boy who is “different” and the classmate who befriends him.

Guji Guji. Chih-Yuan Chen, $23.95

In this engaging and beautifully illustrated story about identity, loyalty and family, Guji Guji — the "crocoduck" — makes some big decisions about who he is, what he is and what it means to be a family.

My Best Friend Will. Jamie Lowell & Tara Tuchel, $23.95

Enter Willie's world through Jamie's eyes as it unfolds at school, at home, and at play. In the process, you will gain a rich understanding and appreciation of Willie's many unique qualities and come to accept that these are all a part of who he is.

Fruits: A Caribbean Counting Poem. Valerie Bloom and David Axtell, $16.95

How much fruit can one girl eat in a day? You'd be amazed!