| CONTENTS:
A series list is included at the end of each of the content subjects, if applicable.
PICTURE BOOKS
Bailey, Linda. The Farm Team.
Illustrated by Bill Slavin. Kids Can Press
Who will win the coveted Stolski Cup? The Farm Team has lost for the last fifty years but not this year. Cows, pigs and chickens don their skates tobeat those weasel, grizzly, skunk and porcupine bullies of the Bush League Bandits. Hilarious hockey fun!
Bailey, Linda. Stanley’s Wild Ride.
Illustrated by Bill Slavin. Kids Can Press
In this winning dog caper, we find Stanley escaping from his yard and joining his friends on an unforgettable and hilarious romp into the night. Look out world, here come the dogs on wheels!
Bar-el, Dan. Alphabetter.
Illustrated by Graham Ross. Orca Book Publishers
What happens when 26 kids don’t want the object associated with their letter of the alphabet? Gwendolyn doesn’t want a goldfish. She wants a hammer. Luckily, Hector has a hammer he doesn’t want, instead of the ice cream he does. And so it goes in this whimsical look at the alphabet.
Chartrand, Lili. Taming Horrible Harry.
Illustrated by Rogé. Tundra Press
When Harry the monster frightens a young girl away, she leaves behind her an object that seems to be of no use to Harry. It doesn’t taste good and it is hard to play with but the pictures inside lead Harry to the world of reading.
Côté, Geneviève. What Elephant?
Kids Can Press
There’s an elephant in the house! A pertinent and refreshing variation of afamiliar theme. The author’s whimsical and playful illustrations add to the humour of this gentle message.
Edwards,Wallace. The Extinct Files: My Science Project.
Kids Can Press
In a picture book for school age kids, young Wally proves that dinosaurs live among us. Excellent illustrations match with many plays on words to make this spoof a real treat.
Reid, Barbara. Fox Walked Alone.
Illustrated by Barbara Reid. Scholastic
Sensing something in the air, a curious fox tags along with a growing parade of animals and meets another fox just in time for them to board the Ark together.
Springett, Martin. Jousting With Jesters: An ABC for the Younger Dragon.
Orca Book Publishers
An alphabetical catalogue of advice (‘Ignore irritating imps.’) guides flameless Dennis the Dragon on a journey through a humorously realized medieval landscape to the source of dragon fire.
Ward, David. The Hockey Tree.
Illustrated byBrian Deines. North Winds Press
When Owen and Holly are playing hockey on the lake with their Dad, they lose the puck in a fishing hole. All is not lost, Dad tells them, if they can find a “hockey tree” in the forest. Readers will enjoy the kids’ surprise and delight when Dad helps them find the best hockey puck ever.
Yerxa, Leo. Ancient Thunder.
Groundwood
Dramatic illustrations using unusual art techniques accompany a praisesong as wild horses gallop through time.
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FICTION
Citra, Becky. Never to be Told.
Orca Book Publishers
What does the ghost, which 12 year old Asia sees around the farm, have to do with Asia having to leave the only home she remembers? A gently spooky ghost story anchors this tale of love, loss and starting anew.
Cullen, Seán. Hamish X and the Cheese Pirates.
Penguin
Children labouring in the world’s most miserable orphanage are given new hope with the arrival of an enigmatic young escape artist in magical boots. A fantastic adventure tale packed with thrills, leavened with laughs, and capped with the year’s most curious ending.
Dyer, Hadley. Johnny Kellock Died Today.
Harper Trophy Canada
Rosalie and her family keep many secrets from each other. Perhaps the biggest family secret Rosalie would like to uncover is about her favourite cousin who has mysteriously disappeared. In this touching and humorous story, Rosalie sets out to find some answers and learns something important about herself and her family.
Ellis, Sarah. Odd Man Out.
Groundwood
Sent to stay with his grandmother and five lively girl cousins, 12 year-old Kip gradually comes to terms with identity, loss and his mother’s remarriage. A multi-layered, skillfully-constructed novel written with humour, poignancy and vivid characterization. Not to be missed.
Gregory, Nan. I’ll Sing You One-O.
Thomas Allen
Gemma is a twelve year old who has long accepted her foster family as her own. When the family is broken up and Gemma sent to live with relatives she never knew she had, she does not go willingly. Gifted writer Gregory does it again in her first novel for children.
Heneghan, James. Safe House.
Orca Book Publishers
12-year-old Liam Fogerty is cruelly orphaned and now supposedly sheltered in a “safe house.” Soon Liam is again in flight in a fast-paced thriller that sensitively portrays the strife in Northern Ireland.
Johansen, K.V. Torrie & the Firebird.
Annick Press
This new adventure starring the fearless Captain Anna and the magical, funny, and resourceful “Old Thing” follows the daring duo as they set out to save Kokaho, a young boy who is accused of stealing a precious stone. Battling goblins and an evil sorcerer, the heroes take us on an amazing journey.
Lawrence, Iain. Gemini Summer.
Random House
A poignant, beautifully written story set in 1965. When his older brother dies, Danny believes Beau has been reincarnated in a stray dog and determines to make his greatest dream come true by running away with the dog to Cape Canaveral and a meeting with astronaut Gus Grissom.
Wood, Beverly and Chris. The Golden Boy.
Raincoast
Guided by terrier Patsy Ann, 13-year-old Tomi finds himself transported to Juneau, Alaska in 1939. Encountering hostility, friendship and challenge, Tomi comes of age in this exciting story. Third title in the Sirius mysteries.
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NON-FICTION
Becker, Helaine. Secret Agent Y.O.U.: The Official Guide to Secret Codes, Disguises, Surveillance and More!
Maple Tree Press
Packed with intriguing information, practical tips, and fun activities, this book is guaranteed to ensure kids top marks in Espionage 101.
Berkowitz, Jacob. Jurassic Poop: What Dinosaurs (and others) Left Behind.
Illustrated by Steve Mack. Kids Can Press
Get the scoop on dinosaur poop from this entertaining and informative book about animal doo-doo. Not only is the layout very appealing, but the illustrations and photos are also loaded with details to delight and encourage budding scientists and detectives.
Bowers, Vivien. Crazy About Canada.
Maple Tree Press
Answers to questions from kids across Canada. Divided into three sections, the clear, well-illustrated explanations are offered in an engaging, informative and amusing way.
Coren, Stanley. Why Do Dogs Have Wet Noses?
Kids Can Press
Informative and entertaining, Stanley Coren’s book is a valentine to dogs everywhere. Interesting facts combined with unique and humorous photos make this a must read for kids and adults and anyone who is curious about our best friends. This book deserves 5 paws.
Lesynski, Loris. “I Did it Because...”How a Poem Happens.
Illustrated by Michael Martchenko. Annick Press
The popular author surrounds 30 of her funniest poems with dozens of easy-to-follow ideas to get kids reading, writing, and reciting. The best poetry appreciation lesson you’ll ever encounter.
MacLeod. Elizabeth. Eleanor Roosevelt: An Inspiring Life.
Kids Can Press
Elizabeth MacLeod continues her excellent biography series with the life ofEleanor Roosevelt. Using letters and photos, combined with stunning layouts, MacLeod reveals a fascinating, complex and inspirational woman who rose from personal tragedies, insecurities and fears to become one of the most beloved women in America.
Patterson, Heather. I am Canada.
Scholastic
Multicultural children go about their daily activities while simple language describes their lives.
Romanek, Trudee. Squirt! The Most Interesting Book You’ll Ever Read About Blood.
Kids Can Press
This is another title in the excellent “Mysterious You” series by Trudee Romanek. Every possible thing one could hope to know about blood from circulation to toads! Great illustrations that help explain clearly all of the vast information in this book.
Ross,Val. You Can’t Read This: Forbidden Books, Lost Writing, Mistranslations and Codes.
Tundra Press
This is a fascinating anecdotal account of the history of censorship and literacy. Read about everything from the development of the printing press and Braille to the sanitization of Shakespeare and the secret teaching of girls in schools in Afghanistan. Great for older elementary school students.
Taylor, C.J. All the Stars in the Sky.
Tundra Press
Author-illustrator C.J. Taylor’s striking paintings illustrate seven North American legends. Drawn from different First Nations groups, the legends are retold with wisdom and compassion.
• NON-FICTION SERIES:
Medieval World series.
Crabtree
Includes the titles Manners and Customs in the Middle Ages by Marsha Groves, Medieval Myths, Legends and Songs by Donna Trembinski, Famous People of the Middle Ages by Donna Trembinski, Medieval Medicine and the Plague by Lynne Elliott and Medieval Projects You Can Do by Marsha Groves.
These are excellent additions to public and school library collections to help fill curriculum needs. They will be of interest to the recreational reader as well.
Kids Can Do It series.
Kids Can Press
Includes the titles Horse Crafts by Linda Hendry, Knotting: Make Your Own Basketball Nets, Guitar straps, Sports Bags and More by Judy Sadler, Quick Knits by Judy Sadler and Junk Drawer Jewelry by Rachel Di Salle.
This series is consistently well executed and are must have books for your craft and hobby sections. Sure to be of interest to both children and adults looking for crafts to do with children.
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Reading for YOUNG ADULTS
FICTION
Bell, William. The Blue Helmet.
Doubleday Canada
With his single-parent father working two jobs to support the family, Lee is drawn to the dangerous company of a neighbourhood gang. When his initiation almost results in a criminal charge, he's sent to live with his aunt in Toronto and help out in her café, a defacto drop-in centre for the quirky and lonely. As Lee develops an unlikely but endearing friendship with one eccentric customer, he begins to appreciate his new community. When past trauma shatters their world, Lee and his family find a way to put the pieces back together.
Buffie, Margaret. Out of Focus.
Kids Can Press
Bernie, a budding photographer who delights in capturing her alcoholic mother's worst moments, takes charge relocating the family to a neglected lodge in the wilderness.
Goobie, Beth. Hello Groin.
Orca Book Publishers
16-year-old Dylan's display in the school library sparks a censorship controversy. Even more distressing for her is the fact that she is more attracted to her best (female) friend Joc than her loyal boyfriend Cam. Despite her heartache, Dylan keeps her sense of humour intact while she explores new emotions and opportunities. Ultimately, she chooses to follow her heart and trust those she loves with the truth.
Harvey-Fitzhenry, Alyxandra. Waking.
Orca Book Publishers
Ever since Beauty’s mother died, she has tried to be invisible, living in a world of nightmarish dreams in order to avoid the questions and gossip that follow her everywhere. Then, an exhilarating new student arrives at school and begins to wake Beauty, bringing her back to life. But she is still haunted by the vision of a mysterious Shadow Lady who inhabits her dreams.
Huser, Glen. Skinnybones and the Wrinkle Queen.
Groundwood
Tamara abandons her foster parents, running away with a cantankerous chain smoking nursing home escapee on a cross country trans border operatic road trip.
Korman, Gordon. Born to Rock.
Scholastic
Once Harvard bound and unabashedly square, Leo suddenly finds himself black-marked at school, minus a scholarship and working as a roadie for a punk band.
McNaughton, Janey. Raintree Rebellion.
Harper TrophyCanada
In this sequel to The Secret Under My Skin, 18-year-old Blake Raintree accompanies her aunt to the battered shell of Queen's Park, where a Justice Council is being formed to restore society after the Technocaust. Blake is both fascinated and challenged by the task facing the Council, and soon gets to know her colleagues, as well as vulnerable people in the community. When Blake has the opportunity to find out the identity of her father, she's forced to confront her darkest fears.
Slade, Arthur. Meggido’s Shadow.
HarperCollins
When Edward’s older brother is killed in World War I, he lies about his age and enlists in the army. After proving himself as a horseman, Edward is sent with the British Cavalry to fight the Turks in the deserts of Palestine. There, Edward finds himself caught between his thirst to avenge his brother and his horror at the reality of battle.
Stinson, Kathy. 101 Ways to Dance.
Second Story Press
In this collection of short stories we find again and again the excitement, awkwardness, passion, discomfort, pleasure, and agony of first love and awakening sexuality.
Toten,Teresa. Me and the Blondes.
Penguin
Sophia, or Sophie as she would prefer, is a Toronto teen with a secret past. Just beginning at a new school, she is determined to fit in despite her over-the-top mother and crazy aunties. This time she is going to get in with the “Blondes”: the most popular, perfect girls at school. At this school, Sophie is going to be popular, or maybe not.
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