Chosen by a jury of First Nation librarians from across Ontario, these titles represent the best of Indigenous literature from Canada today. The title selection announcement and award presentation for First Nation Communities Read (FNCR) 2025-2026 will take place during First Nation Public Library Week (Oct. 6-10, 2025).
The Animal People Choose a Leader by Richard Wagamese
Junior: The first book in a new series that brings the unmistakable voice of beloved author Richard Wagamese to children. This tradition-steeped story meditates on the unifying power of wisdom, kindness and respect.
Lost at Windy River by Trina Rathgeber
Junior: The harrowing story of how a young Indigenous girl defies the odds and endures nine days alone in the unforgiving barrens.
Bannock in a Hammock by Masiana Kelly
Junior: This sweet and simple rhyming book explores a food that is a popular tradition with Inuit and other Indigenous people, and has some fun along the way.
Dad, I Miss You by Nadia Sammurtok
Junior: Told in the voice of a boy and his father by turns, this book takes a thoughtful and heartfelt look at the emotional toll of a child being taken from their family and community to attend residential school.
Boozhoo!/Hello! by Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley
Junior: Hello! Who do you see and hear in the woods today? Meet a variety of woodland and water animals in this story written in Anishinaabemowin and English.
Hummingbird/Aamo-binashee by Jennifer Leason
Junior: In this deeply emotional and beautifully illustrated picture book, the ancestors send a hummingbird to a child lost in Windigo's darkness. Its teachings of resilience, love and connection bring the child home and remind us that our ancestors are always watching and can help us find our way if we only ask.
Little Moons by Jen Storm
Teen: In this moving graphic novel, thirteen-year-old Reanna grieves the loss of her older sister. Can she find comfort through her family's Ojibwe traditions?
Who We Are: Four Questions for a Life and Nation by the Honourable Murray Sinclair.
Adult: Who We Are examines the roles of history, resistance and resilience in the pursuit of finding that path forward, and healing the damaged relationship between Indigenous Peoples and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada.
The Baby Train by Stella Shepard
Adult: The shameful legacy of forced and coerced adoption in Eastern Canada is brought to life in this sweeping sequel to Ashes of My Dreams.
Medicine Wheel for the Planet by Dr. Jennifer Grenz
Adult: Building on sacred stories, field observations and personal experience, Dr. Jennifer Grenz invites readers to share in the teachings of the four directions of the medicine wheel.
