The Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC) recently announced the finalists for eight major awards celebrating Canadian books for young readers! These nominees are the top middle grade books.
The Fabulous Zed Watson! by Basil Sylvester and Kevin Sylvester
This smart, funny, and compelling narrative features Zed, a non-binary protagonist with a personality as bold as their outfits and a cast of loveable secondary characters who bring out lots of drama and humour. Ages 8-12.
The Girl Who Loved Giraffes and Became the World’s First Giraffologist by Kathy Stinson
A unique biography that will resonate with animal lovers and readers who love stories about persistence and strong women. Ages 8-12.
Dear Peter, Dear Ulla by Barbara Nickel
Readers are taken on a journey toward choosing love and kindness in the face of stunning prejudice. Ages 8-12.
Traitors Among Us by Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch
Dealing with the aftermath of WWII, sisters Maria and Krystia trade one fascist regime for a tyrannical one. Ages 8-12.
Spell Sweeper by Lee Edward Födi
A wonderfully fresh and inventive take on the wizard school story, with clever and surprising world-building and delightfully spirited writing. Ages 8-12.
Growing Up Trans: In Our Own Words edited by Dr. Lindsay Herriot and Kate Fry
This curated collection is raw and honest, covering various topics from a first-hand perspective. An essential read for creating empathy and understanding. Ages 9-12.
Elvis, Me, and the Lemonade Stand Summer by Leslie Gentile
An engaging and layered story of identity and determination that captures what it’s like to live on reserve and what it is to have people who genuinely care about you. Ages 9-12.
Second Chances by Harriet Zaidman
A must-read on polio awareness, adjusting to disability, the importance of vaccines for protection against disease, the dangers of misinformation, and the devaluation of Métis lives. Ages 9-12.
Stealing Home by J. Torres
Giving young readers a window into the Japanese internment during WWII is a powerful way to examine the far-reaching consequences of racism, injustice, discrimination and fear. This graphic novel tackles this sensitive topic with accuracy and heart. Ages 9-12.
Living with Viola by Rosena Fung
Livy’s pre-teen world aches with the pain and loneliness of the social anxiety represented by her alter ego, Viola. Ages 9-12.
Mad for Ads: How Advertising Gets (and Stays) in Our Heads by Erica Fyvie
A comprehensive, accessible and fun book about advertisements and how young people can become aware of the messages they are surrounded with. Ages 10-12.
