On November 8th, we're excited to join the nation in celebrating I Read Canadian Day, an initiative that champions Canadian books for young readers. Supported by esteemed organizations such as the Ontario Library Association, Canadian Children’s Book Centre and Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators, and Performers, this day is all about fostering a love for reading and enjoying a Canadian book for just 15 minutes.
We have made it easy for kids to get in on the fun right here at the BWG Library, with three special events taking place on Wednesday, November 8 for children of all ages:
I Read Canadian Storytime and Book Tasting (Zima Room)
10 - 10:30 a.m.
Delight in Canadian-focused stories, songs, and crafts with our library programmer, Michelle. Then, for those craving more, sample some of our favorite picture books by Canadian authors and illustrators with our Community Engagement Team, Khalida, Breagh, and Samantha. This event is perfect for children aged 18 months to five years.
I Read Canadian Comics – Book Tasting for Teens (Zima Room)
2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Be amazed by the abundance of Canadian comics and graphic novels out there. Andréa will be your guide on this exciting book-tasting adventure featuring engaging activities, refreshments, and an enticing array of books. Come by for a literal snack and dive into a figurative feast of great books.
I Read Canadian Comics – Book Tasting for Kids (Zima Room)
4:30 - 6 p.m.
Children aged six to 11 are invited to explore our wide selection of Canadian comics and graphic novels. Dive into a world of creativity and fun, where comic books can often be the gateway to a child’s lifelong passion for reading.
While I Read Canadian Day is officially on November 8th, its spirit can be celebrated year-round. Canada is home to a wealth of creative and talented authors and illustrators.
Each spring, we participate in the Forest of Reading Awards, enabling students to vote for their favourite Canadian reads. If you're seeking inspiration, check out some of this year's winners:
Are You a Cheeseburger? By Monica Arnaldo: https://bradford.library.on.ca/iguana/www.main.cls?surl=search&p=da956636-ab54-11e7-a683-b3ccea85ea00#recordId=1.248598
Bear in the Family by Eric Walters and Olga Barinova: https://bradford.library.on.ca/iguana/www.main.cls?surl=catalogue#navigation
Children of the Fox: Thieves of Shadow, Book One by Kevin Sands: https://bradford.library.on.ca/iguana/www.main.cls?surl=search&p=da956636-ab54-11e7-a683-
b3ccea85ea00#recordId=1.253253
Fred & Marjorie: A Doctor, A Dog, and the Discovery of Insulin by Deborah Kerbel and Angela Poon: https://bradford.library.on.ca/iguana/www.main.cls?surl=search&p=da956636-ab54-11e7-a683-b3ccea85ea00#recordId=1.256478
We'd love to see which Canadian reads have captured your imagination this year! Don't hesitate to tag us and use the #IReadCanadian in your posts.
For more information on I Read Canadian Day and their efforts to put more Canadian books in the hands of young readers, visit their website at https://ireadcanadian.com/day/.
‘Til next week, happy reading!
Natasha Philpott is the marketing and communications coordinator at the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library. She can be reached at [email protected].
