Everything I need to know in life, I learned from children's literature
The Toronto International Festival of Authors kicks off this week, including 30+ kids' events. I am excited to be moderating a spooky author panel featuring two international superstars, Canada's own Kenneth Oppel and revered Japanese author, Sachiko Kashiwaba. GHOSTLIGHT takes place in and around one of my favourite local places, the Toronto Islands. Featuring a… Continue reading Talking Ghosts with Kenneth Oppel and Sachiko Kashiwaba
Whether your kids are looking forward to a new school year or clinging to the end of summer, a good book can gently ease them back into an academic routine. Here are 10 new Canadian titles featuring warm welcomes, new friends, try-outs, social anxiety and fresh starts. Watch the segment online here. Picture Books, Ages… Continue reading As Seen on CTV: Back-to-School Reading List for Kids
The best way to keep kids hooked on reading is to find them a series that will have them asking for more. Here are ten series by Canadian authors to keep your kids reading all summer long! Watch the segment here, or read on for the full list! Ages 5-9 Scaredy Squirrel is a familiar… Continue reading As Seen on CTV Your Morning: Start a Series
Everyone likes a little me time, so I'm changing it up a little to include some grown-up books that make great gifts for Dad. Here are four picture books to read with Dad (or Grandad) and four adult books to give the father figure in your life this Father's Day, as shared on CTV Your… Continue reading As Seen on CTV Your Morning: Books for Father’s Day
In April, I left my day job at Penguin Random House Canada to focus on my writing and new opportunities. Here are some of the very exciting things coming down the pike. TPL Writer in Residence I am thrilled to be spending June & July as the Toronto Public Library's Writer in Residence, focusing on… Continue reading TPl Writer in Residence & Other News
May is Asian Heritage Month, and we have a wealth of Asian-Canadian authors and illustrators creating great books for children. Here are ten new kids' titles from Asian-Canadian creators to check out! Watch the segment here. Picture Books, ages 3-7 TWELVE IN A RACE (Plum Leaf) introduces the history of the Chinese zodiac with gorgeous paintings… Continue reading As Seen on CTV Your Morning: Asian Heritage Month Kids’ Reading List
This year marks the 45th annual Canadian Children's Book Week, the largest national celebration of Canadian children's books and creators. Hundreds of virtual readings and events are happening across the country, including an online picturebook gallery where you can purchase original art from some of Canada's most distinguished illustrators in support of the Canadian Children's Book… Continue reading As Seen on CTV Your Morning: Canadian Children’s Book Week 2022
When it rains, it pours! April showers bring a fresh new crop of Canadian kid’s books. Watch the segment here. Three Picture Books for Kids 3-7 RAINY DAYS (Pajama Press) Written in gentle rhyming couplets, this book is a celebration of the simple, ordinary joys of a rainy day, like splashing in puddles or finding… Continue reading As Seen on CTV Your Morning: Fresh Spring Reads for Kids
With so much going on right now it can be hard for kids to focus and let's face it, everyone can use a break! Enter pleasure reading! Here are ten reads on the lighter side that will engage the young readers in your life. You can watch this segment online here, starting at the 1:54:15… Continue reading As Seen on CTV Your Morning: Light Reads for Kids
It won't surprise anyone that I think that books make the best gifts, not just because of the great stories, information, or art they contain, but because when you give a book as a present you're also giving the gift of time. Whether it's time cuddled up with a loved one sharing a story or… Continue reading As Seen on CTV Your Morning: 10 Books That Make Great Gifts
Vikki VanSickle 