FOLD Kids Book Fest 2024 - Festival Program

FESTIVAL PROGRAM

NOVEMBER 5—9, 2024

thefoldcanada.org/kids

@FoldKids

@FoldKids

FoldKidz

FOLD Kids

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Jael, Ardo, Lin & Sam welcome you to another great year of

FOLD STAFF

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

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FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

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PARTICIPANT BIOS

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BOOK LIST

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Jael Richardson Executive Director

FOLD Kids Book Fest!

Ardo Omer Kids Program Coordinator Hudson Lin Program Coordinator Samantha Clarke Volunteer and Audience Engagement Coordinator Kilby Smith-McGregor Graphic Designer

KIDS PROGRAM SUBMISSIONS

Toni Duval Educator Guide Writer

GRAVITY VERSUS LOVE

Calyssa Erb Pitch Perfect: KidLit Edition Facilitator

Gurnoor Kaur

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Alexandra Yeboah Associate Program Editor

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FOLD KIDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

THE LAST SONG Cindy Chen

Toni Duval Meena Johal Rabia Khokhar Rahma Shere Arathy Sivasubramaniam

RESCUE AT SEA Abigail Solas

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FREE

Noor Faizan

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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Ashish Seth Secretary

Teri Vlassopoulos Treasurer

UNTITLED

Isabelle Martz

Lavanya Narasimhan Board of Directors Lead

UNTITLED

Austin Keillor

Monica Tang Director, Adult Programming

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Karen Richardson Mason Director, Kids Programming

A GOOD CHANCE Abby Singh

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Felicia Quon Director, Sponsorships & Special Projects

PROUD OF WHO I AM Rina Agu

Cynthia Innes Director, Human Resources

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Mark Richardson Director, Board Governance

FESTIVAL SPONSORS & PARTNERS PL ATINUM

An agency of the Government of Ontario

GOLD

Un organisme du gouvernement de l’Ontario

COMMUNIT Y PAR TNERS

BRONZE

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FOLD KIDS BOOK FEST

ALL EVENTS ARE EASTERN TIME

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

VIRTUAL

BONUS SESSIONS AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 1!

IT BEARS REPEATING

FROM NOVEL TO COMIC DRAWING THE BABY-SITTERS CLUB

STORYTIME WITH TANYA TAGAQ

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

WITH ARLEY NOPRA

TUES. NOV 5 WRITERS ARE SUPERSTARS WITH KERN CARTER

ASL STORYTIME WITH GAITRIE PERSAUD

LET’S DRAW! WITH NOHA EILOUTI

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

1:30pm

EVENINGS FOR EDUCATORS

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7:30pm 8:00pm

WITH ASHLEY QILAVAQ-SAVARD

THURS. NOV 7

PRIMARY (K–GRADE 3)

THE WRITER’S LIFE

JUNIOR (GRADES 4–6)

WITH ANTON TREUER

INTERMEDIATE (GRADES 6–8)

ROLL FOR INITIATIVE! STORYTELLING THROUGH ROLE-PLAYING WITH VICTORIA KOOPS

TELLING TALES WITH NATASHA DEEN

ALONE TOGETHER

STORYTIME

THE ILLUSTRATOR BATTLE

A REMEMBRANCE DAY

WITH ADAM DE SOUZA

WITH SHENAAZ G. NANJI

WITH NOHA EILOUTI, CHELSEA CHARLES AND KEVIN SYLVESTER

ALONE TOGETHER: EXPLORING LONELINESS IN THE CLASSROOM

TALKING TO STUDENTS ABOUT DISABILITY

FANTASTICAL TALES IN PAKISTAN

REIMAGINING ANNE: CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF L.M. MONTGOMERY

WITH DOROTHY ELLEN PALMER

WITH PETTI FONG

WITH EMILY VARGA AND M.T. KHAN MODERATED BY AMEEMA SAEED

MATTHEW DAWKINS, NATASHA DEEN AND PAUL COCCIA WITH CATHERINE LITTLE

TEENS (GRADES 9–11) EDUC ATORS

HOW TO BAKE A YUMMY STORY

2:00pm

5:30pm

A PET ROCK PROJECT

WITH JEN FERGUSON AND CHERYL ISAACS

THE MAKING OF A GRAPHIC NOVEL

WITH DOROTHY ELLEN PALMER

5:00pm

WED. NOV 6

ON FRIENDSHIP+WRITING

WITH PETTI FONG

STORYTIME

WITH MAIDAH AHMAD

IN-PERSON

COMMUNITY DAY • SATURDAY, NOV 9

THURSDAY, NOV 7 EVENING EVENT

GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE & LIBRARY

6:30pm

9:30am

COME READ WITH ME A STORYTIME PAJAMA PARTY

KICKOFF CELEBRATION ARENA-END OF GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH (AGES 4–10)

(ALL AGES)

12:30pm

ADVENTURES IN SPACE WITH ONTARIO SCIENCE CENTRE GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE (AGES 8–13)

10:00am

THE OPENING PARADE

FRIDAY, NOV 8

ARENA-END OF GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE (ALL AGES)

10:00am

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT AT GORE MEADOWS

BRAINSTORM BONANZA: A WRITING WORKSHOP WITH RIPPLE FOUNDATION

10:30am–3:30pm

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH

STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS

(AGES 0–6)

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH

10:00am

(AGES 4–11)

SIMONE, HALF AND HALF LIVE THEATRE PERFORMANCE

10:30am 11:30am 2:00pm 3:00pm

LESTER B. PEARSON THEATRE

2:00pm

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH (AGES 9–13)

2:00pm

KIDS DISCOVERY CLUB WITH BRAMPTON LIBRARY

SARABETH HOLDEN SAHAR GOLSHAN MAHAK JAIN RUKHSANA KHAN

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH (AGES 6–12)

(SCHOOL GROUP EVENT: GRADES 4–8)

EVENING EVENT

DROP-IN EVENT

7:00pm

TEEN SPOKEN WORD SHOWCASE SUSAN FENNELL YOUTH HUB (AGES 14+)

11:00am–4:00pm

3:00pm

GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH

TODAY I AM: AN ART WORKSHOP WITH PAMA (ALL AGES)

FOOD ART WITH FLO LEUNG (AGES 6+)

11:00am

ESCAPE BRAMPTON LIBRARY WITH BASIL & KEVIN SYLVESTER GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH (AGES 8–13)

11:30am

STORYTIME WITH SARABETH HOLDEN EARLYON AT GORE MEADOWS (AGES 0–6)

PRESCHOOL (AGES 0–6)

JUNIOR (AGES 9–11)

TEENS (AGES 14–17)

PRIMARY (AGES 4–8)

INTERMEDIATE (AGES 11–13)

ALL AGES

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FESTIVAL SCHEDULE VIRTUAL EVENTS WRITERS ARE SUPERSTARS WITH KERN CARTER

BONUS VIRTUAL CONTENT AVAILABLE ON DEMAND FROM NOVEMBER 1 Watch these bonus preview events on your own schedule!

Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am

IT BEARS REPEATING STORYTIME WITH TANYA TAGAQ

Join us for an incredible writing workshop as Kern Carter

In this bonus storytime event, author and Inuk performer

(Is There a Boy Like Me?) shares the secrets to writing amaz-

Tanya Tagaq reads from her new picture book, It Bears Re-

ing stories. Discover how to create your own tales—from

peating. Grades K–3.

imagining fun characters to crafting thrilling plots. By the

FROM NOVEL TO COMIC: DRAWING THE BABY-SITTERS CLUB WITH ARLEY NOPRA

end of the workshop, you’ll have written your very own short story. Get ready to unleash your creativity and become a superstar writer!

Grades 6–8. 45 minutes

SU PPOR TE D BY

ASL STORYTIME WITH GAITRIE PERSAUD Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am In this annual storytelling event, Deaf artist and actress Gaitrie Persaud presents the incredible children’s book Ar-

The bestselling series The Baby-sitters Club is available as a graphic novel series! In this bonus event, artist Arley Nopra guides kids through the process she followed converting Claudia and the Bad Joke from a chapter book into a middle grade graphic novel. Grades 4–7. SUPPORTED BY

ON FRIENDSHIP AND WRITING WITH JEN FERGUSON & CHERYL ISAACS Authors Jen Ferguson (A Constellation of Minor Bears) and

chie Celebrates an Indian Wedding by Mitali Banerjee Ruths and

Cheryl Isaacs (The Unfinished) are not just writers, they’re

Parwinder Singh in American Sign Language (ASL). Suitable

also friends! In this event, they discuss their friendship, what

for children of all ages, this ASL storytelling event provides

it’s like writing alone and together, and navigating the pub-

viewers with an opportunity to learn a few signs as they dis-

lishing industry. Grades 9–11.

cover the art of storytelling. Oral translation will be provided by an ASL interpreter.

Grades K–3. 30 minutes

LET’S DRAW! WITH NOHA EILOUTI Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 10:00am

In this art workshop, illustrator Noha Eilouti (We Are Palestinian) leads young artists step-by-step in the creation of an incredible work of art. Get out your paper and pencil for some drawing fun, and bring a question to ask Noha!

Grades 4–6. 45 minutes

THE MAKING OF A GRAPHIC NOVEL WITH ADAM DE SOUZA Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 11:00am Writer and illustrator Adam de Souza shares how he took his graphic novel, The Gulf, from idea to published book in this comics based event that explores the journey of a career in comics.

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Grades 8–11. 45 minutes

STORYTIME WITH DOROTHY ELLEN PALMER Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 1:30pm Author Dorothy Ellen Palmer reads from her picture book, The Scooter Twins, which follows the journey of two siblings getting their very own mobility scooters. The reading will be followed by an activity.

Grades K–3. 30 minutes

ALONE TOGETHER: EXPLORING LONELINESS IN THE CLASSROOM WITH PETTI FONG Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 5:00pm The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on loneliness and socialization. In this workshop designed for educators, Petti Fong—journalist, educator, and author (Alone Together)—explores the effects of loneliness and provides helpful tools for educators tackling this issue in the classroom.

Educators. 60 minutes

SU PPOR TE D BY

FANTASTICAL TALES IN PAKISTAN

THE ILLUSTRATOR BATTLE

Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 7:30pm

Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 1:30pm

In this evening conversation, authors M.T. Khan (Amir and the

Our highly anticipated, annual illustrator event returns

Jinn Princess) and Emily Varga (For She is Wrath) explore two

with a new crop of artists who will battle it out from their

fantastical Pakistans: one existing parallel to the world of jinn

own drawing tables. This not-to-be missed interactive vir-

and the other inspires a romantic fantasy retelling of a literary

tual event includes hilarious challenges featuring Canadian

classic, The Count of Monte Cristo. They’ll discuss worldbuild-

illustrators Noha Eilouti, Kevin Sylvester and our Illustra-

ing, character motivations and writing for teen and middle

tor-in-Residence Chelsea Charles. Join host Ardo Omer and

grade audiences with moderator Ameema Saeed.

special guest Marty Chan for this not-to-be-missed show-

Educators. 60 minutes

A PET ROCK PROJECT WITH ASHLEY QILAVAQ-SAVARD Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 9:00am Author Ashley Qilavaq-Savard shows kids how to make a

case of artistic talent.

SU PPOR TE D BY

Grades 5–8. 60 minutes

TALKING TO STUDENTS ABOUT DISABILITY WITH DOROTHY ELLEN PALMER

pet rock of their own in this storybook event based on her

Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 5:00pm

latest picture book, I Am a Rock. Participants are recom-

In this workshop designed for educators, disabled author

mended to have the following materials to follow along: a

and retired teacher Dorothy Ellen Palmer (The Scooter

rock, googly eyes, glue, beads, pipe cleaners and pom poms.

Twins) provides meaningful tools for discussing disabili-

Paint is optional!

ties with students and how to teach books featuring dis-

Grades K–3. 30 minutes

abled characters.

Educators. 60 minutes

ROLL FOR INITIATIVE! STORYTELLING THROUGH ROLE-PLAYING WITH VICTORIA KOOPS

REIMAGINING ANNE: CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF L.M. MONTGOMERY

Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 10:00am

Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 7:30pm

In this teen event, author Victoria Koops (Who We Are in

This year marks the 150th birthday of iconic Canadian au-

Real Life) leads teens through a writing workshop inspired

thor of Anne of Green Gables, L.M. Montgomery. In this eve-

by tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons.

ning event, authors Paul Coccia, Matthew Dawkins and

Come prepared with a pen and paper, and your imagination!

Natasha Deen discuss their reimaginings of Anne Shirley in

Grades 9–11. 45 minutes

HOW TO BAKE A YUMMY STORY WITH SHENAAZ G. NANJI Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 11:00am Did you know that storytelling and baking have a lot in

The ANNEthology with moderator Catherine Little (Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill).

Educators. 60 minutes

THE WRITER’S LIFE WITH ANTON TREUER

common? They both rely on a careful recipe of ingredients

Thursday, Nov. 7 at 9:00am

to create a delicious treat. In this storytelling workshop,

The Writer’s Life series focuses on the writer’s journey. In

author Shenaaz G. Nanji (Alina in the Deep) unpacks important tips on baking an incredible story.

Grades 4–6. 45 minutes

this year’s segment, author Anton Treuer (Where Wolves Don’t Die) discusses the process behind writing his first novel and how he became a Professor of Ojibwe. From how he became a writer of fiction to being part of preserving and revitalizing an Indigenous language, students will learn there are many paths to publishing.

Grades 9–11. 45 minutes

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TELLING TALES WITH NATASHA DEEN

IN-PERSON EVENTS

Thursday, Nov. 7 at 10:00am In this session, author Natasha Deen shares what she loves about writing mysteries and what inspired her to write her latest book in the Lark Ba Detective series: Lark Goes the Distance.

Grades 4–6. 45 minutes

Thursday, Nov. 7 at 6:30pm Come in your pajamas and bring your favourite stuffie as local

ALONE TOGETHER WITH PETTI FONG

celebrity readers share some of our favourite picture books at our annual read-a-loud storytelling event.

Thursday, Nov. 7 at 11:00am

Ages 4–10. 60 minutes

What’s the difference between being alone and being LONELY? How do you handle the feeling of loneliness, and are you alone in that experience? Using her book, Alone Together, as a guide, author and educator Petti Fong explores effective ways to navigate loneliness for kids.

COME READ WITH ME: A STORYTIME PAJAMA PARTY GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH

SU PPOR TE D BY

Grades 6–9. 45 minutes

A REMEMBRANCE DAY STORYTIME WITH MAIDAH AHMAD Thursday, Nov. 7 at 1:30pm In this storytime event, author Maidah Ahmad reads from her picture book, Muhammad’s Recipe for Remembering, which explores the story of a Muslim boy rediscovering his family’s history in the World Wars as part of Remembrance Day. The reading will be followed by an activity from the book.

Grades K–3. 30 minutes

MUSIC & MOVEMENT GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH Friday, Nov. 8 at 10:00am Join us for a special interactive music & dance event for families with young children based on picture books written and illustrated by Indigenous creators: Counting at Kits Beach by Oliver Moss Warawa McDonald and My Heart Fills With Happiness by Monique Gray Smith and Julie Flett. This drop-in event develops physical coordination, social skills, and creative expression.

Ages 0–6. 60 minutes

SIMONE, HALF AND HALF LIVE THEATRE AT LESTER B. PEARSON THEATRE Friday, Nov. 8 at 10:00am Join us for a live theatre performance of Carousel Players’

IN-PERSON EVENT VENUES GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE & LIBRARY

North of Castlemore Road on The Gore Road, Brampton

GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH (10150 The Gore Rd) GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE (10150 The Gore Rd) EARLYON GORE MEADOWS (10100 The Gore Rd) ***

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Simone, Half and Half at Lester B. Pearson Theatre!

Fourteen-year-old Simone is caught between cultures: Canadian, Québécois, and Trinidadian. She’s also torn between friends and the projects they want her to take part in. Can Simone find the courage to stand up for what she believes in?

Will her friends accept the choices she makes? And will she finally learn to be more comfortable with herself? Simone, Half and Half is a touching story about finding one’s place between identities and communities.

School Group event for Grades 6–8. 70 minutes

TEEN SPOKEN WORD SHOWCASE AT SUSAN FENNELL YOUTH HUB

LESTER B. PEARSON THEATRE Bramalea Civic Centre, 150 Central Park Dr, Brampton

Friday, Nov. 8 at 7:00pm

SUSAN FENNELL YOUTH HUB Susan Fennell Sportsplex, 500 Ray Lawson Boulevard (Ray Lawson Boulevard & McLaughlin Road)

much-anticipated night of performances. Youth 14+ can sign

Join us at our annual Teen Spoken Word Showcase for a up for a spot on stage and share their poetic verses alongside incredible guest poets.

Ages 14+. 60 minutes

KICKOFF CELEBRATION + OPENING PARADE ARENA-END OF GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE Saturday, Nov. 9 Kickoff Celebration at 9:30am / Parade at 10:00am

STORYTIME AT EARLYON WITH SARABETH HOLDEN EARLYON GORE MEADOWS Saturday, Nov. 9 at 11:30am In this drop-in storytime event at EarlyON, author Sarabeth Holden reads from her board book, Please Don’t Change My Dia-

Kickoff FOLD Kids Book Fest’s Community Day with a family

per! Storytime events offer the opportunity to hear stories read

& friends celebration! Join us for a light breakfast, meet Ace

from local authors themselves.

the Astronaut, and enjoy lively music before embarking on The Opening Parade. Afterward, join the procession from the arena to Brampton Library’s Gore Meadows branch for our first event.

All Ages.

SU PPOR TE D BY

Ages 0–6. 30 minutes

ADVENTURES IN SPACE WITH ONTARIO SCIENCE CENTRE GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE Saturday, Nov. 9 at 12:30pm

STORYTIME FUN WITH FOLD KIDS AUTHORS GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH

Science Centre to explore the wonders of our solar system and

Saturday, Nov. 9 from 10:30am–3:30pm

activities. Advance registration encouraged. Arrive 10 min. early to

Join us for a full day of incredible storytime presentations from authors and special guests.

10:30am 11:30am 2:00pm 3:00pm

Sarabeth Holden Sahar Golshan Mahak Jain Rukhsana Khan

Ages 4–11.

ESCAPE BRAMPTON LIBRARY WITH BASIL AND KEVIN SYLVESTER GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH Saturday, Nov. 9 at 11:00am Escape the library! Basil and Kevin Sylvester have crafted an escape group experience inspired by their middle grade novel, Night of the Living Zed. The escape room will begin in

Help an astronaut fly to space! Join experts from the Ontario learn all about space travel with fun science experiments and ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted if there’s space.

Ages 8–13. 45 minutes

KIDS DISCOVERY CLUB WITH BRAMPTON LIBRARY GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH Saturday, Nov. 9 at 2:00pm Science + technology + engineering + art + math = STEAM! Participate in fun STEAM challenges every week. Nov. 9th will be inspired by the book, The Bee Mother by Hetxw’ms Gyetxw (Brett D. Huson) and Natasha Donovan, as part of FOLD Kids Book Fest.

Ages 6–12. 90 minutes

BRAINSTORM BONANZA: A WRITING WORKSHOP WITH RIPPLE FOUNDATION GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH

the library and end in the community centre. Register in ad-

Saturday, Nov. 9 at 2:00pm

vance and arrive 10 minutes ahead of time to ensure a spot.

In this workshop designed for budding writers, participants

Space is limited.

Ages 8–13. 60 minutes

TODAY I AM: AN ART WORKSHOP WITH PAMA GORE MEADOWS COMMUNITY CENTRE

will learn how to brainstorm story ideas effectively with Ripple Foundation writing instructors. Advance registration encouraged. Arrive 10 min. early to ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted if there’s space.

Ages 8–14. 60 minutes

Saturday, Nov. 9 from 11:00am–4:00pm

FOOD ART WITH FLO LEUNG GORE MEADOWS LIBRARY BRANCH

Using different artistic techniques, kids are encouraged to

Saturday, Nov. 9 at 3:00pm

create artwork inspired by the book Today I Am edited by Jael Richardson at this all-day drop-in art event facilitated by Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives.

All Ages.

In this art-based workshop, author and food illustrator Flo Leung (The Blue Bowl) guides kids through making food inspired artwork of their own. Advance registration encouraged. Arrive 10 min. early to ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted if there’s space.

Ages 6+. 60 minutes

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PARTICIPANT BIOS AUTHORS AND PERFORMERS MAIDAH AHMAD (she/her) is an educator and author who lives by the motto of love for all, hatred for none. She is the author of Muhammad’s Recipe for Remembering.

MARK ANTHONY ’s (he/him) work specializes in mental health and motivational speaking, he draws on his Bahamian roots to weave together vivid imagery and heartfelt narratives that inspire and empower.

INDIA BROWN (she/he) is a Black and queer creative writer and UofT graduate, specializing in spoken word poetry, short stories, and stageplays.

KERN CARTER (he/him) is an author, filmmaker, and educator celebrated for his captivating storytelling. He is the author of Is There A Boy Like Me? CHELSEA CHARLES (she/her) is a Brampton-based freelance illustrator. She’s built a career from illustrating everything from sports stars to political concepts. She is the FOLD Kids Book Fest 2024 Illustrator-in-Residence.

PAUL COCCIA (he/him), the self-proclaimed Author of Glitterature, writes books for young readers. He is a contributor to The ANNEthology.

MATTHEW DAWKINS (he/him) is a Jamaican award-winning author and poet; Until We Break is his debut novel. He is a contributor to The ANNEthology.

NATASHA DEEN (she/her) is a best-selling author and teaches creative writing with the University of Toronto SCS. She’s the author of Lark Goes the Distance and a contributor to The ANNEthology.

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ADAM DE SOUZA (he/him) is a Canadian cartoonist. He’s known mostly for his award winning comic strip Blind Alley and his coming-of-age graphic novel, The Gulf.

NOHA EILOUTI (she/her) is a Palestinian illustrator based in Toronto. She is the illustrator of Reem Kassis’s We Are Palestinian: A Celebration of Culture and Tradition.

JEN FERGUSON (she/her) is Métis and white. She’s author of three YA novels including her latest, A Constellation of Minor Bears.

PETTI FONG (she/her) is a journalist, educator and YA author. She is the author of Alone Together: A Curious Exploration of Loneliness based on her podcast of the same name.

SAHAR GOLSHAN (she/her) is the author of So Loud! a picture book illustrated by Shiva Delsooz and published by Annick Press.

MARTIN GOMES (he/they) is a writer & performer.

SARABETH HOLDEN (she/her) is a really fun children’s author who lives in Toronto.

She is the author of Sea Snooze.

CHERYL ISAACS (she/her) is a white/ Indigenous writer based in southern Ontario.

She is the author of The Unfinished.

MAHAK JAIN (she/her) is an award-winning author of books for young people and adults.

She is the author of The Only Astronaut.

M.T. KHAN (she/her) is a speculative fiction author with a penchant for all things myth, science, and philosophy. She is the author of Amir and the Jinn Princess.

RUKHSANA KHAN (she/her) is an international award-winning author and storyteller. She is the author of Honk Honk, Beep Beep, Putter Putt!

VICTORIA KOOPS (she/her), author of Who We Are In Real Life, lives with her family in Saskatchewan where she still plays make-believe either through her love of TTRPGs or writing.

FLO LEUNG (she/her) is a food-loving illustrator and author of The Tray of Togetherness and The Blue Bowl.

SHENAAZ G. NANJI (she/her) is an internationally published children’s author of fourteen books that include the critically acclaimed novel, Child of Dandelions, finalist for the Governor General, and Alina in the Deep.

ARLEY NOPRA (she/her) is a FilipinaCanadian illustrator and the creator of the New York Times bestselling Baby-sitters Club graphic novel adaptation of Claudia and the Bad Joke by Ann M. Martin.

DOROTHY ELLEN PALMER (she/her) is an award-winning disabled writer and the author of The Scooter Twins who lives in Burlington, Ontario with her mobility scooter Rosie.

GAITRIE PERSAUD (she/her) is Deaf actor, activist and an ASL coach, ASL music performer, she is also the founder of Phoenix the Fire, a theatre hub for BIPOC Deaf artists.

ASHLEY QILAVAQ-SAVARD (she/her) is an Inuk poet, writer, artist, and filmmaker born and raised in Iqaluit, Nunavut. She is the author of I Am A Rock.

BASIL SYLVESTER (they/them) is a nonbinary writer and bookseller. They are the co-author of Night of the Living Zed. KEVIN SYLVESTER (he/him) has written and illustrated more than 30 books for kids.

He is the co-author of Night of the Living Zed. ANTON TREUER (pronounced troy-er, he/ him) is Professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University and author of Where Wolves Don’t Die. EMILY VARGA (she/her) is a YA Fantasy author whose debut novel For She Is Wrath is a Pakistani-inspired Count of Monte Cristo retelling out with MacMillan.

MODERATORS MARTY CHAN (he/him) writes books for kids. In his spare time, he plays with his two cats. He wrote Izzy Wong’s Nose for News and contributed to the Today I Am anthology.

CATHERINE LITTLE (she/her) is an educator, consultant, and writer with a love of children’s picture books. She’s the author of Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill.

AMEEMA SAEED (she/her) is a professional bookworm. When she’s not reading books, she likes to talk about books (especially books by diverse authors) on her bookstagram: @ ReadWithMeemz Rooted in her intersections as Black, woman, and queer, award-winning spoken word artist,

THE WILD WOMAN (she/her) uses poetry, spirituality, and sensual self-introspection to initiate self-development.

PUBLISHING PROFESSIONALS YASH KESANAKURTHY (she/her) is an editor and fangirl of all things children’s literature, from picture books to young adult novels.

JIEUN LEE (she/her) is the Editor and Project Manager at Annick Press, where she acquires and edits books for young readers across all ages.

KHARY MATHURIN (he/him) is an editor at Annick Press, where he acquires books for children and young adults.

MARIA VICENTE (she/her) 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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GRAVITY VERSUS LOVE

KIDS PROGRAM SUBMISSIONS

Gurnoor Kaur, age 14

I saw the moon revolve around you and it comes back every night, Rising high up and upon you, shining its light.

I saw the birds singing for you their charming song, For them you’re the only place where they think they belong It’s all Love!

I saw the red rose beaming with dew, Escaping from the thorns it bloomed for you.

I saw earlier this morning, light snow falling from the sky, It wanted to feel you, you can’t deny.

It’s all Love!

I saw the waves of the ocean, kissing your shore.

Hugging you then, now and of course forevermore.

I saw the rain cleansing and purifying your air, Every drop is a token of how much they care.

It’s all love.

I saw the white cloud covering you from sun heat, To save you from drying, isn’t that so sweet.

I saw the air breezing by to keep you cool, Why won’t they do that, after all you’re their precious jewel.

It’s all Love!

I saw us humans running life’s long race And at the end all of them, fall in your warm embrace.

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And at last, I saw the red apple fall from above, They say it’s gravity, I say it’s Love!

THE LAST SONG

Is the re a so ng that re of a p a min d s y r tic u lar ou eve nt o r pe rso n?

Cindy Chen, age 14

In a world where magical beings are hunted and seen as

My mother’s eyes closed, and she

monsters, will she fall prey to the same fate that befell her

released a breath as her hands lifted, and

homeland centuries ago, or will she be able to find justice

she slowly lowered them onto her guzheng.

for her people?

Her graceful fingers plucked one of the strings, playing a beautiful note that

My fingers danced across the bamboo flute, note after note mixing together into a beautiful melody.

My eyes were closed, my mind drifting along with the music.

My fingers subconsciously moved as I played, every note familiar to me…

resounded around the room—I watched in anticipation and awe as her fingers danced across the instrument, the movements of her fingers graceful like a flowing river.

The notes of her music flowed out, drifting into the air, the flowy movements of the notes matching the song.

I closed my eyes, smiling, as I let myself fall into the

“....Mommm, Please play the song—I want to listen to you play!”

My mother smiled down at me as I tugged on her hanfu, looking up at her with pleading eyes.

Kneeling down, she rubbed my head gently, “Didn’t I just play it for you this morning little gem?”

I pouted as I looked up at her through my eyes,

warm embrace of the music.

The music sped up, a chorus of notes falling together into a beautiful melody-and I took a sharp intake of breath as the notes got higher, and higher until-the last and final note was played.

Then silence.

I slowly opened my eyes still smiling, “Mom, that was-

“But mom, I want to hear it again..”

”I trailed off as I realized that my mom was gone, and so

she looked at me for a moment before letting out a

was the house.

breathy chuckle,

I was kneeling in the dirt, in front of what was once

“Alright little gem, I’ll play it again.”

my home-only debris and smoke remained, flames still

She stood up and walked to one of the cushions laid

cackling in the ruins.

out in front of a table, she kneeled down, and with a

I felt something digging into my palms, and I opened

wave of her arms, her magical artifact appeared-it was

them to reveal my bloody family sigil sitting in my palm.

a gorgeous guzheng, made from jade, and embroidered with gold.

A red tassel with our family sigil hung from the side of

My eyes opened as I played the last and final note, my fingers pausing on the flute.

the instrument, every musyelian family had a unique family sigil that they wore and kept on their magical artifacts; our family sigil represents the jade dragon.

(To be continued…)

13

CONTENTS

RESCUE AT SEA Abigail Solas, age 12

It was a hot Saturday evening. Molly and her mother were at the beach. Molly’s mother was sitting under

by the birds!”

her umbrella reading a book. Molly couldn’t under-

“I know, but your hands are dirty and you might

stand how her mom found her book interesting—it

hurt them” Molly’s mother replied, “they also won’t

had no pictures!

remember the beach if you help them, and if the tur-

Molly walked along the beach until something hit her foot. She looked down and realised it was a baby turtle! Molly looked around and saw many more baby turtles walking toward the water.

“Oh, do you need help getting to the ocean, little turtle?” Molly asked. She picked up the turtle and placed it in the water.

Molly looked around some more. She saw lots of other turtles getting snatched up by birds.

tles don’t remember where they hatched, they won’t return and lay their eggs here.”

“But what about the birds?” Molly whined. “The turtles can’t come back to lay their eggs if they’re the birds’ supper.”

“We might not be able to help the turtles into the water but we can scare the birds away”, Molly’s mother said.

“Alright then let’s do that!” Molly exclaimed joy-

“Oh no, I gotta help these little guys or they’ll all

fully. She and her mother spent the rest of the eve-

get eaten by the birds!” Molly exclaimed. She frantical-

ning scaring birds and other predators away from

ly started picking up the turtles and throwing them in

the turtles.

the water while scaring the birds away.

“Molly what are you doing?” asked her mother.

“Leave those turtles alone.”

14

“But why?” Molly asked. “They’re getting bullied

Afterward, they packed their things to go home.

“Yay, we got to save so many turtles without touching them, Mommy!” Molly said happily.

“But they’re being taken away by birds!” Molly re-

“Yes, we did” her mother replied, “and one day

plied in frustration. Molly’s mother pulled her away

they’ll come back to these very same shores and a

from the turtles’ nest.

new set of turtles will be born to go through what their

“Don’t help the turtles”, Molly’s mother said.

parents did today.

FREE Noor Faizan, age 11

There’s something that we need in this world.

With every step forward, we must remember,

It may seen like it has no worth.

The struggles endured, each ember.

The something’s not money.

In unity, we find our strength,

The something’s even sweeter than a drip of honey.

Something that this world needs.

To rebuild, to heal, at any length.

What does “free” really mean?

So let us stand, hand in hand, There’s still some racism.

And build a world where all can stand.

There’s still poverty.

Where every soul can bloom and thrive,

There’s still injustice.

There’s still displacement.

But with hardship comes ease.

From across the 7 seas

In the beauty of being truly alive.

In the tapestry of humanity, let compassion weave its thread,

People face hardship

For in love’s embrace,

Some face it with glee

we find our true stead.

Because they’ve gone through worse Some think of it as a curse Everytime u look at a thyres Think of the people Who’ve never seen a flower Who’ve been unable to take a shower Who live in poverty Who who live in war You a child, adult, or old person Can make a change Be it Big or small It all helps the world overall

In the midst of despair, hope must rise, In every heart, it ignites and flies.

Through the darkest nights and the brightest days, It’s the beacon that guides in countless ways.

For “free” is not just an empty word, It’s the promise of voices finally heard.

Breaking chains of prejudice and hate, Opening doors to a fairer fate.

What d oe s the wo rd F R me an to EEDOM yo u?

15

on eve ry zzle, u p a e r is li k bet te .. . hin g s rib ute t t n g o c in n a c Mak y e th p ie ce has a

e

UNTITLED Isabelle Martz, age 9

On my way to the caf I feel like foam’s stuck in my throat My friends are here beside me, but It’s like they’re not I hear their murmurs, see their glances Come my way, I pretend I’m somewhere Other than the same place Are they talking ‘bout me? Or them? Or all of us?

Quietly, I follow them and we play games They’re fun for a moment, but I hear the whispers I wonder if they’re whispering about me. Again.

Their laughter comes, I laugh insincerely.

Sometimes they laugh at my jokes and I feel Like they tolerate me. And and at the end of the day,

UNTITLED

I know I will be alright so I plant a smile on my face And I head home.

Austin Keillor, age 12

The world used to be one singular continent that drift-

choke of humanity. We can relieve it, stop these wars

ed away from each other like the sanity of us beings.

I believe it. They’re all about profit. How do you line

These wars like Afghanistan, Russia, Ukraine—what a

your countries pockets if everyone dies fighting for

mess. We need to side our differences and address

their deposit?

the world in its current state of distress. The world— it’s turned into a contest of who can depress other

Hatred. Violence. Its insanity. The darkness from

countries the fastest with the least amount of re-

down below, seeping into the cracks of humanity.

sources and deaths.

Don’t worry—it can be stopped. We need to bring

might say. Maybe it’s about land, resources. Nope.

everyone to the top. To speak up and stop the dark-

Three words: two syllables, one meaning. Greed. Mon-

ness before it Devours us all and surrounds us in a

ey. Power. These words many would kill for. They are the

ball made of violence and Crisis that makes us forget

reasofls for many casualties, and the kids hiding inside

what our life is and we must stop this before too much

away from the bombs and shells being fired outside.

cruelty pops it and swallows the world like a tsunami

And what about the horrible death threats to innocent

of hatred.

people at schools hiding away from those awful fools.

We need to speak up for what’s right and for 16

Can we fix this? It’s our Job.

Why, I ask myself. Why do we kill each other, many

We just need everyone to stand up for what’s right. Overpower the hate.

those who don’t have a voice to be heard. Just like the

This greed is all for what? All it’s doing is scaring

famous quote, “lf everyone fought fire with fire the

future generations with terrible memories that they

whole world would go up in smoke.” We must stop the

hold on to until their final breath.

A GOOD CHANCE Abby Singh, age 12

Julie was a 14 year old girl who loved soccer. Her dream

weeks to heal but it felt like an eternity for Julie. She

was to make her country’s national team.

thought her dreams were crushed forever.

When the coach for the national team showed up to choose new players something bad happened. Julie tripped over the soccer ball and fell. At that moment she felt defeated.

Her coach rushed over and tried to help her but

A few days later she got a letter from the national team’s coach. She was too nervous to open it.

It said “Dear Julie, I’m sorry for what happened to your leg. Once your leg is better and you feel confident enough I would like to give you a second chance.”

she couldn’t get up because her leg hurt too much.

She was really happy her dreams weren’t crushed.

The coach called an ambulance. At the hospital they

The coach came back and watched as Julie got multi-

found out she had a sprained leg. It would take 2-3

ple goals. The coach was very impressed and everything went well.

A few days later she got another letter. It said “Julie, I was very impressed with your skills and would like to give you a spot on the national team next year”.

When Julie finished reading the letter she was very happy. She wanted to tell the whole world.

Her mom, teammates and coach were also very happy.

Can you name the different sports which use the balls below?

e lie on Ju ch u ld i h o W sh

ki

? ck

17

make an d clothe s on al food s What trad iti iq ue? ’s cu lture un yo ur fa mily

CONTENTS

PROUD OF WHO I AM Rina Agu, age 11

Sometimes I think I look different from my friends.

My cultural clothes are quite unique but beautiful. My

Why do I think this way? Well, I really shouldn’t think

mom puts cultural cute outfits on me. It looks differ-

this way because I’m just me! A beautiful girl with

ent, but I like it. I don’t look like all of my friends but I

brown skin, dark hair, and white eyes. I look like me!

sure have the same skin tone as my family and some

Just like every young girl. I look like me, and there’s

of my friends. We are all different but yet the same.

only one of me. I am proud of who I am. It doesn’t

We are one. We are Created in God’s image.

matter what I look like.

My traditional food tastes different but I like it. They’re Sometimes it’s hard to get my hair combed because of

foods that I really like, which are Pizza, Salad, Hot Dogs,

my hair texture. Some of my friends have straight hair,

and Hamburgers. My favourite food is my traditional

and it’s easy to get their hair combed. My mom does

food, Fufu and Okro. It looks and tastes different, but

amazing hairstyles on my hair; hairstyles like Braids,

it’s delicious. Yummy!

Afro, Extended Cornrows, and Bundle Puffs. My favourite hairstyle overall is Box Braids, but I don’t like to sit

I am proud of who I am.

down for so long. It takes hours for my mom to finish

Yes I look different,

it, but my dad’s hugs always make me feel better.

yes I speak different, yes I dress different, and yes I eat different, I am just me.

18

I am proud of who I am.

Celebrate the diverse voices all around us Find your next adventure, your next friend, your next inspiration, right here in the stories we share.

PICTURE BOOKS

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MIDDLE-GRADE NOVELS

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TEEN NOVEL

Add these books to your collection today!

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Illustration © by Erin Hill from An Anishinaabe Christmas

BOOKLIST

PRIMARY

JUNIOR

INTERMEDIATE

TEENS

MUHAMMAD’S RECIPE FOR REMEMBERING

By Maidah Ahmad & illustrated by Shruti Prabhu 4–7 years 978-1773219097

SO LOUD!

By Sahar Golshan & illustrated by Shiva Delsooz 4–7 years 978-1773218595

ANNE OF THE LIBRARY-ON-THE-HILL

By Catherine Little & illustrated by Sae Kimura 6–10 years 978-1738165247

ARCHIE CELEBRATES AN INDIAN WEDDING

By Mitali Banerjee Ruths & illustrated by Parwinder Singh 4–8 years 978-1623544188

THE ANNETHOLOGY: A Collection of Kindred Spirits Inspired by the Canadian Icon Edited by Judith Graves 13+ years 978-1773661537

THE BLUE BOWL Written & illustrated by Flo Leung 4–7 years 978-1771474634

IS THERE A BOY LIKE ME?

By Kern Carter 10–14 years 978-1443198424

SEA SNOOZE

By Sarabeth Holden & illustrated by Emma Pedersen 3–5 years 978-1772275186

THE BABY-SITTERS CLUB GRAPHIC NOVEL #15: Claudia and the Bad Joke

By Ann M. Martin and Arley Nopra 8–12 years 978-1338835502

IZZY WONG’S NOSE FOR NEWS

By Marty Chan 9–12 years 978-1459839373

PLEASE DON’T CHANGE MY DIAPER!

By Sarabeth Holden & illustrated by Emma Pedersen Baby–0 years 978-1772272734

ALINA IN THE DEEP

By Shenaaz G. Nanji 6–8 years 978-1772603903

LITTLE BLACK LIVES MATTER

By Khodi Dill & illustrated by Chelsea Charles 3–6 years 978-1644211878

THE BEE MOTHER

By Brett D. Huson (Hetxw’ms Gyetxw) & illustrated by Natasha Donovan 9–12 years 978-1774920800

I AM A ROCK

By Ashley Qilavaq-Savard & illustrated by Pelin Turgut 3–5 years 978-1772274752

LARK GOES THE DISTANCE

By Natasha Deen 6–8 years 978-1459838758

THE UNFINISHED

By Cheryl Isaacs 13+ years 978-0063287389

NIGHT OF THE LIVING ZED

By Basil Sylvester and Kevin Sylvester 8–12 years 978-1443469203

THE GULF

By Adam de Souza 14+ years 978-1774880739

THE ONLY ASTRONAUT

By Mahak Jain & illustrated by Andrea Stegmaier 3–7 years 978-1525307362

IT BEARS REPEATING

By Tanya Tagaq & Illustrated

by Cee Pootoogook 3–7 years 978-1774880555

THE SCOOTER TWINS

By Dorothy Ellen Palmer & illustrated by Maria Sweeney 6–9 years 978-1773066295

WE ARE PALESTINIAN: A Celebration of Culture and Tradition

By Reem Kassis & illustrated by Noha Eliouti 9+ years 978-1623717254

WHERE WOLVES DON’T DIE

By Anton Treuer 12+ years 978-1646143818

A CONSTELLATION OF MINOR BEARS

By Jen Ferguson 13+ years 978-0063334229

AMIR AND THE JINN PRINCESS

By M.T. Khan 8–12 years old 978-0759557970

FOR SHE IS WRATH

By Emily Varga 13+ years 978-1250877383

ALONE TOGETHER: A Curious Exploration of Loneliness

By Petti Fong & illustrated by Jonathan Dyck 9–12 years 978-1459837232

HONK HONK, BEEP BEEP, PUTTER PUTT!

By Rukhsana Khan & illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat 3–7 years 978-1774882641

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

23

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Chinguacousy

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In the Ski Chalet at Chinguacousy Park

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Gore Meadows In the community centre

Mount Pleasant Village

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