FOLD Kids Book Fest 2023 - Festival Program

FESTIVAL PROGRAM

NOVEMBER 1—5, 2023

thefoldcanada.org/kids

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

THE STORY OF FOLD

FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

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PARTICIPANT BIOS

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ONCE UPON A TIME there was a beautiful Flower city full of people from all different cultures and communities...

BOOK LIST

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FOLD STAFF Jael Richardson Executive Director Ardo Omer Kids Coordinator

Samantha Clarke Volunteer and Audience Engagement Coordinator Kilby Smith-McGregor Graphic Designer

MY WINTER WONDERLAND 12

FOLD KIDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

THE DAY YOU WERE BORN Aria H. Samuel

Toni Duval Meena Johal Rabia Khokhar Fiona Ross Rahma Shere Arathy Sivasubramaniam

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THE DRAGON RIDERS Lehara Lokuge

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FOREVER WILL BE Rida Azmi

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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Teri Vlassopoulos Treasurer

THE DECOY

Zia Hasham

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A GOOD DAY

Veda Subhash

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SILENCE

Miraya Mehta Kumar

ple in the city loved books, but something was missing.

Jonisha Lewinson Communications Coordinator

KIDS PROGRAM SUBMISSIONS Willow Chornopyski

The city had beautiful book buildings and the peo-

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FESTIVAL SPONSORS & PARTNERS

In this Flower City, there lived a woman who wrote and read books. She searched far and wide for a place to celebrate all kinds of stories, but nothing quite worked. So she decided to create a celebration of books in the magical Flower City she called home that would draw readers and writers of every kind from far and wide But she couldn’t do it alone.

She found one special friend—a writer who was bright and wise, who could help bring this dream to life.

And so they did.

They created wonderful book celebrations and they brought storytellers from far and wide. But when they looked around, they wanted to create even more celebrations. They wanted to create one just for kids.

So they dreamed up a very special book party—a festival for kids and parents and teachers, and they

Ashish Seth Secretary

brought someone extra special along to help build a

Karen Richardson Mason Director, Children’s Programming

smallest readers of all.

festival of books in this fabulous Flower City for the They searched far and wide, and when they found

David Burga Director, Adult Programming

the perfect person, she built a celebration just for kids

Felicia Quon Director, Sponsorships & Special Prizes

whispers cool lullabies.

when the weather turns orange and red and the wind Now, four women work together to create an in-

Cynthia Innes Director, Human Resources

credible celebration for kids of all ages in the magical

Mark Richardson Director, Board Governance

world come to tell their stories.

Flower City—a place where writers from around the And because of that, we all live—and read— happily ever afters.

PL ATINUM

LEFT TO RIGHT:

Jonisha Lewinson, Samantha Clarke, Jael Richardson & Ardo Omer

An agency of the Government of Ontario Un organisme du gouvernement de l’Ontario

GOLD

SILV E R

BRONZE

COPPE R

COMMUNIT Y PA R TNERS

@FoldKids

@FoldKids

FoldKidz

FOLD Kids

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SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE VIRTUAL

10:00am

WEDNESDAY, NOV 1

9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am

CRAFTING COMICS WITH JOANNA CACAO

IN-PERSON FRIDAY NOV 3

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT AT GORE MEADOWS

CLASSROOM EVENTS 9:00am

ALL EVENTS ARE EASTERN TIME

ASL STORYTIME WITH GAITRIE PERSAUD

CARIBBEAN-THEMED INTERACTIVE PROGRAM AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH (AGES 0-6)

THURSDAY, NOV 2 ANTI-RACISM FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH KHODI DILL

FRIDAY, NOV 3 EXPLORING LANGUAGE

WITH DEIDRE HAVRELOCK

WITH MELISSA MOLLEN DUPUIS

LIBRARY

COMMUNITY ROOM 2

COMMUNITY ROOM 3

WITH ZAIN BANDALI

MEET CHLOE: A VIRTUAL PLAY

E ARLY BIRD (SAT, NOV 4) 9:30am 9:30 am

STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS (AGES 4–10)

THE OPENING PARADE

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH

10:30am

WITH CRISTINA QUINTERO

CHARACTER CREATION

WITH LINH S. NGUYỄN

GORE MEADOWS, SPRINGDALE & SOUTH FLETCHER’S LIBRARY BRANCHES (AGES 0-10)

SUNJATA OF THE MANDE EMPIRE

STORYTIME

11:00am

THE WRITER’S LIFE

COME READ WITH ME: A STORYTIME PAJAMA PARTY

SATURDAY NOV 4 • GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE 10:00am

DISCOVERING INDIGENOUS INGENUITY

6:30pm

BAKING BREAD

STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS (AGES 4–10)

WITH CRISTINA QUINTERO (AGES 9–12)

MALAIKA, CARNIVAL QUEEN

11:30am

PRESCHOOL

PRIMARY

BY CAMERON GRANT

11:30am

12:00pm

JUNIOR

STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS (AGES 4–10) THE HOCKEY JERSEY

1:30pm

AN INSECT EXPEDITION WITH DAVID SUZUKI

2:00pm

THE ILLUSTRATOR BATTLE WITH PARIS ALLEYNE , KEET GENIZA & MICHELLE THEODORE

THE DISABILITY EXPERIENCE WITH HANNALORA LEAVITT

12:30pm 1:00pm

INTERMEDIATE STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS (AGES 4–10) MEHNDI BOY

1:30pm

EDUCATOR EVENTS WEDNESDAY, NOV 1 5:00pm

FOSTERING ANTI-RACISM IN THE CLASSROOM

2:00pm

THURSDAY, NOV 2

THE ANTIRACIST KITCHEN

WITH MARTY CHAN, ANN YU-KYUNG CHOI, DEIDRE HAVRELOCK & NADIA L. HOHN

DRAWING BAKU WITH MICHELLE THEODORE

WITH KEET GENIZA (AGES 6–12)

WITH HANNALORA LEAVITT

STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS (AGES 4–10) THE ONLY WAY TO MAKE BREAD

EVENING (SAT, NOV 4) 3:00pm

7:30pm

ENGAGING JAPANESE-CANADIAN HISTORY

STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS (AGES 4–10) THE ONLY ASTRONAUT

3:30pm

STAY ON TRACK: A WRITING WORKSHOP WITH RIPPLE FOUNDATION (AGES 8–14)

WITH MARK SAKAMOTO, SARA TRUUVERT & LARA JEAN OKIHIRO

REIMAGINING STORIES WITH JOANNA CACAO & EMI PINTO

TEENS

EDUC ATORS

DISABILITY IN THE CLASSROOM

BONUS SESSIONS AVAILABLE OCTOBER 30!

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MAKING COMICS

2:30pm

4:00pm

WITH KHODI DILL

7:30pm

FACING HATE: AN ART WORKSHOP WITH PAMA (ALL AGES)

INUIT HORROR

WITH LOUISE FLAHERTY & JAMESIE FOURNIER

7:00pm 7:00 pm

TEEN SPOKEN WORD SHOWCASE

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH (AGES 12-18)

SUNDAY NOV 5 • LESTER B. PEARSON THEATRE • 2:00pm ANGIE THOMAS: LIVE AT FOLD KIDS BOOK FEST AGE 9+

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FESTIVAL SCHEDULE VIRTUAL EVENTS CRAFTING COMICS WITH JOANNA CACAO Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 9:00am In this illustration-based event, comics creator Joanna Cacao leads kids through her process of creating epic worldbuilding illustrations in her debut graphic novel, The Secret of the Ravens. From creating characters to incorporating Filipino culture into the clothing and magic, students will learn how graphic novels evolve from idea to finished product.

Grades 6–8. 45 minutes

ASL STORYTIME WITH GAITRIE PERSAUD Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 9:00am In this annual storytelling event, Deaf artist and actress Gaitrie Persaud presents the incredible children’s book Asha and the Toymaker by Sakshi Mangal in American Sign Language (ASL). Suitable for children of all ages, this ASL storytelling event provides viewers with an opportunity to learn a few signs as they discover the art of storytelling.

Oral translation will be provided by an ASL interpreter.

Grades K–3. 30 minutes

DISCOVERING INDIGENOUS INGENUITY WITH DEIDRE HAVRELOCK Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 10:00am In this session, Deidre Havrelock, co-author of Indigenous Ingenuity, explores Indigenous achievements highlighted in this middle grade nonfiction title. From communicating through Plains Indian Sign Language and pictographs to the invention of corn, this event promises to inform and inspire through a creative exploration of important innovations and Indigenous STEM advancements.

Grades 4–6. 45 minutes

THE WRITER’S LIFE WITH LINH S. NGUYỄN Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 11:00am

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In this sought-after festival series focusing on the writer’s journey, debut author Linh S. Nguyễn (No Place Like Home) discusses her path to a career in writing. From how she develops a story to what it’s like teaching emerging writers, students will learn what’s involved in navigating the publishing world and the creative writing process.

Grades 9–10. 45 minutes

BONUS VIRTUAL CONTENT AVAILABLE ON DEMAND FROM OCTOBER 30

Watch these bonus preview events on your own schedule as part of our special Halloween-themed content!

DRAWING BAKU WITH MICHELLE THEODORE Michelle Theodore walks kids through the process of drawing Baku from the picture book, Mira and Baku. Baku is based on a supernatural character from Japanese folklore who devours nightmares. Grades K–4.

REIMAGINING STORIES WITH JOANNA CACAO & EMI PINTO Explore the inspirations behind two fantastical and scary books that mix stories from the past with contemporary tales. Tune in for a discussion with Joanna Cacao, author of The Secret of the Ravens and Emi Pinto, author of Bee Bakshi and the Gingerbread Sisters as they unpack the ideas that shaped their incredible stories. Grades 6–8.

INUIT HORROR WITH LOUISE FLAHERTY & JAMESIE FOURNIER

THE ANTIRACIST KITCHEN

THE ILLUSTRATOR BATTLE

Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 7:30pm

Thursday, Nov. 2 at 1:30pm

The Antiracist Kitchen anthology is a celebration of food, family, activism and resistance in the face of racism designed for middle grade readers. In this evening panel discussion designed for adults and educators, contributors Marty Chan & Deidre Havrelock, along with editor Nadia L. Hohn, discuss the role of food in their lives and how it’s helped them fight discrimination with moderator, educator and fellow contributor Ann Yu-Kyung Choi.

Our popular, annual illustrator event returns with a new crop of artists who will take up their drawing tools and battle it out from their own drawing tables. This not-tobe missed interactive event includes hilarious challenges where Canadian illustrators Michelle Theodore, Paris Alleyne and our Illustrator-in-Residence Keet Geniza put their artistry on display. FOLD’s very own Kids Coordinator, Ardo Omer, returns as host along with author and producer extraordinaire Marty Chan.

Educators. 60 minutes SU PPOR TE D BY

SU PPOR TE D BY

ANTI-RACISM FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH KHODI DILL Thursday, Nov. 2 at 9:00am Being an activist can be exhausting. So how can teens take care of themselves while fighting for others? What can students do to help break down structures that continue to uplift discrimination thoughtfully? Join author Khodi Dill (stay up) as he provides a few insights and helpful tips for teens.

Discover how (and why) Inuit authors Louise Flaherty (The Gnawer of Rocks) and Jamesie Fournier (The Other Ones) use northern stories to create chilling winter stories. Grades 9–10.

Grades 9–10. 45 minutes

AN INSECT EXPEDITITION WITH DAVID SUZUKI

Thursday, Nov. 2 at 10:00am

Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 1:30pm In this not-to-be-missed virtual event, the one and only David Suzuki gives an exclusive look at the inspiration for his new picture book, followed by a reading of Bompa’s Insect Expedition. Wrapping up the event with a live Q & A designed to give students and teachers an inside scoop on this insightful new book for young readers.

Grades K–3. 30 minutes

FOSTERING ANTI-RACISM IN THE CLASSROOM WITH KHODI DILL Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 5:00pm In this workshop designed for educators, author Khodi Dill (stay up) provides meaningful tools for discussing social issues in the classroom, and for empowering and cultivating student-led activism.

Educators. 60 minutes

Grades 5–8. 60 minutes

STORYTIME WITH CRISTINA QUINTERO There’s only one way to make bread. Okay, maybe two.

Or three? In this delicious storytime event, debut author Cristina Quintero reads from her picture book, The Only Way to Make Bread—a tasty exploration of bread.

Grades K–3. 30 minutes

CHARACTER CREATION WITH ZAIN BANDALI Thursday, Nov. 2 at 11:00am How do you create engaging characters? Author Zain Bandali shows young readers how he created his main character, Tehzeeb, before showing participants how to create amazing characters of their own.

DISABILITY IN THE CLASSROOM WITH HANNALORA LEAVITT Thursday, Nov. 2 at 4:00pm In this workshop designed for educators, author Hannalora Leavitt (The Disability Experience) provides important insight on supporting disabled students in the classroom.

Educators. 60 minutes SU PPOR TE D BY

ENGAGING JAPANESE-CANADIAN HISTORY Thursday, Nov. 2 at 7:30pm During the Second World War, the Canadian government forced Japanese Canadians out of their homes and into internment camps. This year, three books from Canadian authors Mark Sakamoto (Shizue’s Path), Sara Truuvert (Mira and Baku) and Lara Jean Okihiro (Obaasan’s Boots) spotlight this period in history. In this evening event designed for adults and educators, moderator Henry Tsang explores the importance of sharing difficult topics with young people in conversation with all three authors.

Educators. 60 minutes

Grades 4–6. 45 minutes

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IN-PERSON EVENTS

EXPLORING LANGUAGE WITH MELISSA MOLLEN DUPUIS Friday, Nov. 3 at 9:00am Bonjour! In this multi-language session designed for young readers, author Melissa Mollen Dupuis uses French, English, and Innu to discuss storytelling in a reading from her picture book, Nutshimit: in the Woods.

Grades 1–5. 45 minutes

MEET CHLOE: A VIRTUAL PLAY

BY CAMERON GRANT Friday, Nov. 3 at 11:00am Meet Chloe, a virtual play from Carousel Players, explores the challenges Black students face in the education system and the lack of Black curriculum content in the study of Canadian History.

It’s another day of virtual history class. Chloe is working with her group on a research project about John Graves Simcoe, when she discovers another historical figure that is far more relevant to learn about—someone who even shares her first name: Chloe Cooley, a young Black woman enslaved in Upper Canada in the late 1700s. Can Chloe convince her teacher and her project partners to switch to Chloe Cooley’s story weeks before the project is due?

This virtual event is only available on the platform until December 5, 2023.

Grades 9–10. 45 minutes

THE DISABILITY EXPERIENCE WITH HANNALORA LEAVITT Friday, Nov. 3 at 1:30pm Having a disability is different for everyone. In this session, author Hannalora Leavitt (The Disability Experience) breaks down myths and sheds a light on what it’s like to live with a disability from how your house is arranged to who uses a guide dog. Leavitt also weaves in her own personal experience.

Grades 6–8. 45 minutes

THE OPENING PARADE AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE Friday, Nov. 3 at 9:30am

MUSIC & MOVEMENT AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE Friday, Nov. 3 at 10:00am A special Caribbean-themed interactive music and dance program based on two picture books: Malaika, Carnival Queen by Nadia L. Hohn and C is for Carnival by Yolanda T. Marshall. This event, designed for parents and young children, develops physical coordination, social skills, and creative expression, and is presented in cooperation with Bridgeway Family Centre (EarlyON) & FOLD Kids Book Fest.

Ages 0–6. 60 minutes

COME READ WITH ME: A STORYTIME PAJAMA PARTY AT GORE MEADOWS, SPRINGDALE & SOUTH FLETCHER’S BRANCHES Friday, Nov. 3 at 6:30pm Come in your pajamas and bring your favourite stuffie as you listen to some of our favourite picture books read by special guests in our annual read-a-loud evening of storytelling held at three Brampton Library branches.

Ages 0–10. 60 minutes

STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10:00am–4:00pm Join us for a full day of incredible on-the-hour presentations from authors and special guests at the Brampton Library’s Gore Meadows Branch.

10am Sunjata of the Mandé Empire 11am Malaika, Carnival Queen 12pm The Hockey Jersey

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1pm

Mehndi Boy

2pm

The Only Way to Make Bread

3pm

The Only Astronaut

Ages 4–10.

FACING HATE: AN ART WORKSHOP WITH PAMA AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE Saturday, Nov. 4 from 11:00am–4:00pm Using different artistic techniques, kids will create artwork inspired by the book What Does Hate Look Like? by Sameea Jimnez and Corinne Promislow with Larry Swartz at this drop-in art space facilitated by Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives.

All ages.

BAKING BREAD WITH CRISTINA QUINTERO AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE Saturday, Nov. 4 at 11:00am Author Cristina Quintero shows kids how to make their very own arepas featured in the picture book, The Only Way to Make Bread. Register in advance and arrive 15 minutes ahead of time to ensure a seat. Space is limited.

Ages 9–12. 60 minutes

MAKING COMICS WITH KEET GENIZA AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE

TEEN SPOKEN WORD SHOWCASE AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE Saturday, Nov. 4 at 7:00pm It’s Open Mic night! Have a poem you’d like to share? Join us for a much-nticipated night of performances. Youth ages 12+ can sign up for a spot on stage and share their poetic verses alongside incredible guest poets.

Ages 12–18. 60 minutes

ANGIE THOMAS: LIVE AT FOLD KIDS BOOK FEST AT LESTER B. PEARSON THEATRE Sunday, Nov. 5 at 2:00pm Join us for an afternoon conversation with New York Times Best-selling author Angie Thomas in her first Canadian event for her new middle grade fantasy novel, Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy. In this interview, the author of critically acclaimed young adult novels like The Hate U Give and Concrete Rose discusses writing fantasy with teen bookstagrammer Ainara Alleyne. A book signing will take place after the event. Recommended for audiences 9 and over. Register in advance at thefoldcanada.org/angiethomas. $10/Ticket.

Ages 9+. 60 minutes

Saturday, Nov. 4 at 1:00pm Illustrator-in-Residence Keet Geniza shows kids how to make their own mini comic, also known as a zine, and create characters! Register in advance and arrive 15 minutes ahead of time to ensure a seat. Space is limited.

Ages 6–12. 60 minutes

STAY ON TRACK: A WRITING WORKSHOP WITH RIPPLE FOUNDATION AT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY & COMMUNITY CENTRE Saturday, Nov. 4 at 3:00pm In this workshop designed for budding writers ages 8–14, participants will learn how to write an effective story with a main idea that readers can follow from beginning to end with Ripple Foundation writing instructors. Register in advance and arrive 15 minutes ahead of time to ensure a seat. Space is limited.

Ages 8–14. 60 minutes

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PARTICIPANT BIOS AUTHORS AND PERFORMERS EKIUWA AIRE is a celebrated children’s book author known for her inspiring stories about African history. She is the author of two activity books and four picture books including Sunjata of the Mandé Empire.

PARIS ALLEYNE is a comic illustrator based

in Toronto. He was the colourist on the multi-award winning series Afterlift and The AllNighter. He’s worked on Marvel’s Miles Morales:

Spider-Man, Carnage, Black Panther and DC Comics’ Static: Up All Night.

ZAIN BANDALI was born in Canada to Ismaili Muslim parents from Tanzania. For four generations, his family lived in East Africa, with roots tracing to the Kutch and Gujarat regions of India.

Zain is the author of Mehndi Boy. JOANNA CACAO is a Canadian-Filipino author, and illustrator that lives in Winnipeg with her two dogs. The Secret of the Ravens is her debut graphic novel.

MARTY CHAN writes books for kids, plays for adults, and social media posts for fun.

He wrote the bestseller, Haunted Hospital, and is a contributor in The Antiracist Kitchen anthology.

ANN YU-KYUNG CHOI is a Toronto-based author and educator. Her novel, Kay’s Lucky Coin Variety, was shortlisted for the Toronto Book Award.

She’s a contributor in The Antiracist Kitchen anthology.

KHODI DILL is a Bahamian-Canadian author,

anti-racism educator, public speaker, and

spoken word artist from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

He is the author of stay up: racism, resistance, and reclaiming Black freedom.

LOUISE FLAHERTY is an Inuk educator and

author. She’s the co-founder of Inhabit Media Inc., an independent publishing house dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Inuit knowledge and

LARA JEAN OKIHIRO is a writer, researcher,

and educator of mixed Japanese Canadian

values, and the Inuktitut language. She is the author of

heritage living in Toronto. She is the author of

The Gnawer of Rocks.

Obaasan’s Boots, a children’s novel based on her

JAMESIE FOURNIER is an Inuk horror whose work has appeared in the anthologies Coming Home: Stories from the Northwest Territories and Ndè Sı ı̀ ̀ Wet’aɂà: Northern Indigenous Voices on Land, Life & Art. The Other Ones is his debut novel.

KEET GENIZA is an illustrator, cartoonist, graphic designer, youth arts facilitator, zine-maker and incessant scribbler. They are the 2023 FOLD Kids Book Fest’s Illustrator-in-Residence.

DEIDRE HAVRELOCK is a member of Saddle

Lake Cree Nation and the co-author of

Indigenous Ingenuity: A Celebration of Traditional North American Knowledge.

NADIA L. HOHN is a Jamaican-Canadian world-travelling, multilingual educator, editor of The Antiracist Kitchen: 21 Stories (and Recipes), and author of Malaika, Carnival Queen and other books for young people.

MAHAK JAIN writes fiction and poetry for young people and adults. She teaches creative writing at Sheridan College and lives in Mississauga. She is the author of The Only Astronaut.

HANNALORA LEAVITT is a writer living in Victoria, British Columbia. She works to demystify disability through her writing and public speaking, with her loyal guide dog, Ogden, at her side.

The Disability Experience is her first book.

MELISSA MOLLEN DUPUIS is a member of

the Innu community of Ekuanitshit on

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LINH S. NGUYỄN is a Vietnamese-Canadian immigrant and author who writes children’s literature and creative non-fiction. She is the author of No Place Like Home.

grandmother’s life and co-written with Janis Bridger.

GAITRIE PERSAUD, a Torontian, lives and breathes acting and that is reflected in her amazing identity. She was on Silly Paws, CBC’s first ASL Kid show, as the character “Simmi” and was on Blue ‘s Clues and You as Camila.

EMI PINTO is a Canadian South-Asian author of ghost-filled middle grade with lots of heart. She is the author of Bee Bakshi and the Gingerbread Sisters.

CRISTINA QUINTERO is a first generation Canadian author, celebrity ghostwriter, community builder and anti-racist educator, of both Afro-Colombian and Indigenous Colombian descent.

She is the author of The Only Way to Make Bread.

MARK SAKAMOTO is an entrepreneur, an author and a dad. He hopes you enjoy his second book, Shizue’s Path.

DAVID SUZUKI is a father, grandfather, author, scientist, activist, retired broadcaster, and Professor Emeritus at UBC. He’s the author of Bompa’s Insect Expedition.

MICHELLE THEODORE is an illustrator born

and raised under the prairie skies in

Edmonton, Alberta. As a landlocked yonsei, she is often reminiscing about coastal summers with family.

She is the illustrator of Mira and Baku.

ANGIE THOMAS is the award-winning

author of the acclaimed young adult novel,

Quebec’s Côte-Nord. She is the author of the picture

The Hate U Give, which is a #1 New York Times bestseller.

book, Nutshimit: in the Woods.

She’s the author of the middle grade novel, Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy.

SARA TRUUVERT is a Canadian writer of Japanese-Estonian descent. Her short fiction and poetry have appeared in publications like Ploughshares, the Chicago Quarterly Review, Witness, and PRISM international. Mira and Baku is her debut picture book.

MODERATORS AINARA ALLEYNE is a 14-year-old from Hamilton, Ontario who curates the Instagram @ainarasbookshelf. She was Hamilton Public Library’s first Junior Librarian-in-eResidence and created the TV show, Ainara’s Bookshelf, which airs on TVOkids and You. HENRY TSANG is the creator of 360° Riot

Walk, a 360° video walking tour of the 1907 Anti-Asian Riots, and author of White Riot: The 1907 Anti-Asian Riots in Vancouver. Henry is an Associate Dean at Emily Carr University of Art & Design.

PUBLISHING PROFESSIONALS HANA EL NIWAIRI is a literary agent and Rights Manager at CookeMcDermid Literary Management. She is also one of the co-founder of the non-profit organization BIPOC of Publishing in Canada.

YASHASWI KESANAKURTHY is the Associate Editor (Children’s) at HarperCollins Canada.

Previously a Publishing Assistant and a bookseller before that, Yash relishes the chance to not only shape HCC’s children’s list, but also introduce young Canadian readers to a whole host of new, diverse storytellers.

JIEUN LEE is the Editor and Project Manager at Annick Press.

TAMARA SZTAINBOK (she/her) is an editor

at Scholastic Canada. She has worked in children’s books for over twenty years.

MARIA VICENTE is a Senior Literary Agent and Advisor at P.S. Literary Agency representing innovative and beautifully written (and often illustrated) books for readers of all ages.

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THE DAY YOU WERE BORN Aria H. Samuel, age 8

Dedicated to my baby sister Amara River Samuel

KIDS PROGRAM SUBMISSIONS

MY WINTER WONDERLAND Willow Chornopyski, age 7

Oh, my love of winter snowflakes falling

On october 11, I was not having a very good day at

busy but I couldn’t wait until I meet you baby sister.

school but something changed. After school, my cous-

As were were driving home which felt forever, Acha

in Amir and I got picked up by my Khaleh (aunt). Khaleh

called to let me know that it was almost time for you to

asked me if I had a good day. I said “not really”. She

be born, five minutes later at 7:33 pm you were born

asked me if I wanted to video call Acha (my dad). I re-

at Oakville hospital. I couldn’t beleive my eyes, you

plied “sure”. Acha works from home sometimes. Once

were finally here!! I am finally a big sister!!

he picked up the phone, I noticed he wasn’t at home

We arrived home and we put up decorations with

but I didn’t say anything. As usual, Acha asked me “did

the help of Khaleh, Mamani (granmother), Babee

you have a good?” I replied “not really”. Then he won-

(grandfather). We were all so excited to meet you and

dered if I would like to talk to Maman (mom), I agreed.

greet you at home. Acha called and had bad news, they

Acha pointed the camera at her. That’s when I noticed

would have to stay in the hospital overnight because

IV bags and a hospital bed. Maman had the biggest

Maman lost a lot of blood. I was so upset and disap-

smile on her face, she told me “we think your sister will

pointed, so Amir and Khaleh said they would sleep

be born today”. I couldn’t believe it!!! I was going to be a

over and watch a movie with me. Acha promised me

big sister. I couldn’t wait to go to the hospital to be with

he would pick me up at 8:00 am so I can meet you,

Maman and Acha and my baby sister but I had to wait

Amara. I couldn’t sleep all night, my leg was hurting me

until Maman delivered you. I really wanted to be at the

but mostly I wanted to be with you, Maman, and Acha.

hospital but because of COVID rules, I was not allowed

I woke up before anyone else in the house and waited

to join Maman and Acha so I had to be patient.

patiently for Acha to pick me up. When I met you Ama-

Khaleh, Amir, and I went to Absolute Dollar to get

ra and held you in my arms, I felt so much joy. The day

decorations then we went to Subway to have dinner, it

you were born was the best day of my life. Now that

was late for dinner. Khaleh was trying hard to keep me

you’re one, this has been the best year of my life.

falling until they land on my tongue melt away.

And how I can feel wind blow against my body.

The coldness that is ahead of me was waiting for the next day.

And I dream of hot chocolate while I’m standing out in the cold.

Oh, how I love the winter, as I am walking I hear the soft sound of the snow under my boot.

What s u p p lie s d o yo u need to we lc o me a ne w b o rn?

Oh, how I could see far ahead of my little snowflakes looking like crystals.

And when I walk myself to bed I feel the cold feeling as if I were still outside.

When I wake up the next day feeling the exact same way.

Wha t cl oth coz es w y th ill k is w ee p i nte yo r?

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u

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THE CONTENTSRIDERS DRAGON

FOREVER WILL BE

Lehara Lokuge, age 10

Rida Azmi, age 14

It was a nice, summer day in KenyaKora Village. Zenoria, Piner, Marc, Konia and Pan were strolling around

Through raw wind I soar,

the park, joyfully talking about their teenage affairs.

though mist of moon I ache.

They were oblivious to the fact that kilometers away, the crazy scientist, George Whitemoon, was doing an-

Delirious and drunk,

other of his experiments and if it went wrong, disas-

I lie in a shadow.

trous things would happen. Whitemoon knew this. He was almost done, but it went wrong. It created mon-

Trudging beneath rain,

strous creatures of myth called Katarois. A couple

I heave.

days later, Katarois were seen in the village. Then, a couple days after that, news came that the Katarois

The leaves dwindling,

had evolved into Inturois. Inturois were fiercer. The

as my time here stops.

teens met at Marc’s. “We should do something,” said Konia. “Rumor is that dragons can defeat them.” stat-

The endless possibilities once before me,

ed Marc, “Dragons are very complicated.” In just two

have now passed.

days they were ready to go. They set off at the brink of dawn. “We go first up the Mountains-of-Death.”

From sowing the seeds of a beginning,

said Piner. Soon, they got to the base of the mountain.

I now pluck at the very fruits of my ending.

They rested, for they had walked for a long time. “We should get going now.” said Marc. “Yeah,” said Piner.

Each moment. Each path. Each step left behind,

Then, they started climbing. The first bit was unevent-

whisper the thoughts of what is, and forever will be.

ful, but as they were a quarter-way up, this thing that looked like a baby Kataroi flew up to Piner and started lunging at her legs. “Get off!” she yelled but, for no avail.

Pan climbed over so he’d be right next to Piner, then kicked at the thing with one leg. He finally got it to stop

Whe n yo u th or t ink hi n g of s th . . .w i nfi at l hat n ity ast , co m fo r es eve to m r i n d?

and it fell down to the bottom of the mountain. After a couple more hours of climbing, they reached a little

14

cave to spend the night. After checking nothing was

dragons’ cave, but as they got close a talon seared

in it, they settled in. They climbed up and this time

into her side deeply. Inside the cave she collapsed in

the climb was uneventful. “Phew! We finally made it!”

pain. “We’ll be back soon,” said Marc sadly. They ap-

gasped Konia. Then they walked and walked for days

proached the dragons. “We’re here to ask if you’d help

with barely any rest. They clambered into a clump

get rid of the monstrosities. They’re destroying every-

of trees for the night. That morning they were back

thing!” said Konia. A large purple dragon approached

to walking really early, but soon after they heard a

them and looked at them with scanning eyes. “Are you

horrific cat-like growl. Right then, a huge leopard ap-

willing to face the dangers of being a dragon rider and

peared and said “Get on! Inturoi!” With no hesitation

see the horrifying memories of what has happened

the teens jumped on and it raced away, reaching a

and the creatures that exist?” it asked. They nodded.

cave too small for the Inturoi. “Thank you so much!”

Then, they were chosen by a dragon and soon, all the

said Piner. “You’re welcome, My name’s Leora by the

monstrosities were gone.

way.”she said. Soon, they left and Leora sped to the

an im d ride an y If yo u co ul ? be ld it what wou

al,

15

A GOOD DAY THE DECOY Zia Hasham, age 12

Veda Subhash, age 12

“Qia!” Zaina shouted from all the way across the field.

“Yep,” Zaina said. “That’s why they were laughing for

“Oh dear god,” I thought as I jogged to her, the dewi-

a whole 8 minutes.” “I want to quit life,” I unknowingly

ness of the flourishing grass brushing over my shoes.

said. “Yeah, we all do,” Zaina said. Ana gasped. “Do you

It was a warm May day, the breeze gentle and light,

guys want me to make you dandelion crowns?” “Oooh,

while the sun shined and the excitement of recess

yes!” Zoya agreed, tucking her straight hair behind her

took over the aura of the moment.

ear. “I want one of those!” Zaina exclaimed following

It was that that made me realize it.

“What?” I asked when I finally got to the other

Well maybe it’s just me? Probably.

side of the field where Zaina, her twin sister Zoya and

When I started shaking when you smiled at me

Ana were standing. Zoya and Ana had doubled over

The last bell of the day rang too soon and as much

When I realized you cared just not enough for it to be you and me

with laughter, while Zaina rolled her eyes at the twos’

as I’m surprised to say this, I didn’t want to go home.

It was you and then all of them then me

childishness. “Can someone explain what’s going on?”

Either way, I ran home with Ana, because we’re on

But in them, what do you see?

I asked. Zaina sighed and walked over to me, “How

the same bus, laughing and running until we reached

Something that I can say is not true.

could you leave me with those two?” she asked sar-

her house.

what’s in them that’s not in me?

castically. I smiled, “My apologies, miss madame.” Ana

“Come in!” Ana exclaimed. “Can’t,” I said. “I have

Better yet, what’s in me and you can’t realize you don’t see

gasped for breath, “Y-you know,” She fell over laugh-

a class today.” “Oh,” She paused for a moment.

Is it the little things?

ing for another two-ish minutes while me and Zaina

“Next time?” “Of course!” I exclaimed. I walked the

like saying goodnight and asking if you’re actually alright

watched her.

rest of the way home alone, breathing in the seem-

It was that that made me realize it.

Ana. “Do I just follow along now?” I asked myself.

“What happened?” I asked for the third time. Zoya

ingly clean air. It smelled so fresh, the scent of grass

Maybe it’s me? No. It can’t be.

got up, off the ground, her light coloured jeans stained

and dandelions traveling along with it. I sighed and

The way my smile shrinks when you’re not there.

a green-ish brown from the grass and dirt. “So,” Zoya

looked up at the bright sky, the sun shining glorious-

Or when you smile when I say hi if i would ever dare

started. “I was picking dandelions, and Ana has aller-

ly. I smiled and exhaled, my worries and hopes mo-

But now knowing, I don’t and now knowing I won’t.

gies, right? And then-” Zoya chuckled. “I may have let

mentarily disappearing.

Cause I’ve come to realize. I don’t think it’s me.

out the weirdest cough-laugh ever.” Ana finished. I

But i’m not just going to come up to you and confront

looked at the two incredulously, “That’s it?” I asked.

It’s a good day.

while I give and you sit there and take You know why?

Because it’s all fake.

And it was that that made me realize it.

Maybe it’s me? No. No it’s not. It’s you.

I just accidentally took the bait.

If yo u fe l t like h ad d s o me e ciev o ne ed yo what u ... wo u d yo u w to s a ant y to the m ?

16

thi n yo u t do Wha ay? od d a go

k ma

ke s

17

CONTENTS SILENCE Miraya Mehta Kumar, age 12

Out on the street, I stood, waiting ‘til they came, Waiting for their actions, waiting for the game.

Their words or actions, silently weighing on my mind, Mental or physical blows, leaving wounds undefined.

But tonight, oh, tonight, the last straw it would be, No more backing down, no more pain for me.

A fire ignited, a courage blazing bright, Tonight, oh, tonight, I take my stand, I fight.

With words sharpened, armed with a fearless might, A battle of minds, I’ll engage in tonight.

Each syllable a strike, each sentence a strong blow, Their dominance challenged, their power brought low. y lo ud l pe ak . y to s .. a l l w a e t n g is o oise a any n Writin akin g m ? s t r u e oth witho in k of o u th Can y

18

Dim Sum Palace by

X. Fang

A little girl’s love of dim sum spills over into her dreams, taking her on a fantastical food-filled adventure, in this picture book love letter to Maurice Sendak’s In the Night Kitchen.

PICTURE BOOK • ISBN: 9781774881989

The Only Way to Make Bread Cristina Quintero illustrated by Sarah Gonzales written by

This delicious exploration of all kinds of breads, from sourdough to bannock to bao, will tickle your taste buds and warm your heart.

PICTURE BOOK • ISBN: 9780735271760

Don’t Want to Be Your Monster by

Deke Moulton

Two vampire brothers must set aside their differences to solve a series of murders in this humorous and delightfully spooky novel for young readers.

MIDDLE GRADE NOVEL • ISBN: 9781774880494

Something More by

Jackie Khalilieh

A contemporary teen romance novel featuring a Palestinian-Canadian girl trying to hide her autism diagnosis while navigating her first year of high school.

YOUNG ADULT NOVEL • ISBN: 9781774882139

BOOKLIST THE ANTIRACIST KITCHEN: 21 Stories (and Recipes) Edited by Nadia L. Hohn and illustrated by Roza Nozari Ages 9–12 978-1459833432 Orca Book Publishers

MALAIKA, CARNIVAL QUEEN

By Nadia L. Hohn and illustrated by Irene Luxbacher Ages 3–6 978-1773068503 Groundwood Books

THE OTHER ONES

By Jamesie Fournier and illustrated by Toma Feizo Gas Adult/Teen Crossover 978-1772274219 Inhabit Media

ASHA AND THE TOYMAKER

By Sakshi Mangal Ages 3–7 978-1525306662 Kids Can Press

MEHNDI BOY

By Zain Bandali and illustrated by Jani Balakumar Ages 6–11 978-1773217925 Annick Press

THE SECRET OF THE RAVENS

By Joanna Cacao Ages 8–12 978-0358629443 HarperCollins Canada

BEE BAKSHI AND THE GINGERBREAD SISTERS

By Emi Pinto Ages 8–12 978-0063275720 HarperCollins Canada

MIRA AND BAKU

By Sara Truuvert and illustrated by Michelle Theodore Ages 4–7 978-1773217567 Annick Press

SHIZUE’S PATH

By Mark Sakamoto and illustrated by Rachel Wada Ages 5–8 978-1443464598 HarperCollins Canada

BOMPA’S INSECT EXPEDITION

By David Suzuki, Tanya Lloyd Kyi and illustrated by Qin Leng Ages 4–8 978-1771648820 Greystone Books

NIC BLAKE AND THE REMARKABLES: A Manifestor Prophesy

By Angie Thomas Ages 8–12 978-0063225138 HarperCollins Canada

STATIC: UP ALL NIGHT

By Lamar Giles and illustrated by Paris Alleyne Ages 13+ 978-1779510518 DC Comics

C IS FOR CARNIVAL

By Yolanda T. Marshall and illustrated by Daria Lavrova Ages 3–7 978-1771055833 Chalkboard Publishing

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

By Linh S. Nguyễn Ages 9–12 978-1443466202 HarperCollins Canada

STAY UP: racism, resistance, and reclaiming Black freedom

By Khodi Dill and Illustrated by Stylo Starr Ages 12+ 978-1773218076 Annick Press

THE DISABILITY EXPERIENCE: Working Toward Belonging

By Hannalora Leavitt and illustrated by Belle Wuthrich Ages 12+ 978-1459819283 Orca Book Publishers

NUTSHIMIT: In the Woods

By Melissa Mollen Dupuis and illustrated by Elise Gravel Ages 6–8 978-1039701809 Scholastic Canada

SUNJATA OF THE MANDÉ EMPIRE

By Ekiuwa Aire and illustrated by Alina Shabelnyk Ages 4–12 978-1778250200 Our Ancestories/Self-Pub.

THE GNAWER OF ROCKS

By Louise Flaherty and illustrated by Jim Nelson Ages 8–12 978-1772271652 Inhabit Media

OBAASAN’S BOOTS

By Janis Bridger and Lara Jean Okihiro Ages 9–12 978-1772603484 Second Story Press

WHAT DOES HATE LOOK LIKE?

By Sameea Jimenez and Corinne Promislow with Larry Swartz Ages 9–12 978-1772602906 Second Story Press

THE HOCKEY JERSEY

By Jael Richardson with Eva Perron and illustrated by Chelsea Charles Ages 3–10 978-1552674840 IndigoPress

THE ONLY ASTRONAUT

By Mahak Jain and illustrated by Andrea Stegmaier Ages 3–7 978-1772603484 Second Story Press

WHITE RIOT: The 1907 Anti-Asian Riots in Vancouver

By Henry Tsang Adult/Teen Crossover 978-1551529196 Arsenal Pulp Press

INDIGENOUS INGENUITY: A Celebration of Traditional North American Knowledge

By Deidre Havrelock & Edward Kay Ages 8–12 978-0316413336 Hachette Book Group Canada

THE ONLY WAY TO MAKE BREAD

By Cristina Quintero and illustrated by Sarah Gonzales Ages 3–7 978-0735271760 Penguin Random House Canada

To purchase titles from this year’s festival, check out our Official School and Library 23 bookseller at tinlids.ca

Read and learn with us!

905-793-4636 bramptonlibrary.ca

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Scan the QR code or visit bramptonlibrary.ca/index.php/ your-account/get-a-card to learn more.

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Rediscover your Brampton Library in our neighbourhood branches.

Chinguacousy

Decodable Books

In the Ski Chalet at Chinguacousy Park

Discover our latest collection of books designed to help young or struggling readers hone their literacy skills.

Cyril Clark

Search “decodable books” in our catalogue at bramptonlibrary.ca for a complete list of this exciting new collection!

In downtown Brampton

Near Loafer’s Lake Park

Four Corners Gore Meadows In the community centre

Mount Pleasant Village Just steps from the GO station

South Fletcher’s In the Susan Fennell Sportsplex

South West In the Lionhead Marketplace

Springdale

Near Bramalea Rd. and Sandalwood Pkwy.