Every day at Read Local BC, we’re inspired by the activists and leaders in our community that are changing the world for the better. This week, we’re giving a special shout-out to the children and young adults who are working tirelessly to make BC—and the world—a better place! Check out these BC-published books about these future leaders and changemakers, and books to inspire your own little ones!
Urgent Message from a Hot Planet: Navigating the Climate Crisis by Ann Eriksson, illustrated by Belle Wuthrich (Orca Book Publishers)
Now is the time for climate action! In this book for young people, children hear scientists’ warnings about the climate crisis and learn about the millions of youth and adult allies around the world working tirelessly to make a difference for our planet.
Abalone Woman by Teoni Spathelfer, illustrated by Natassia Davies (Heritage House)
In this highly-anticipated third book of the Little Wolf series by Indigenous author Teoni Spathelfer, a vivid dream helps Little Wolf realize her own strength as a leader and peacemaker in her community. It inspires her to preserve her Indigenous culture and to teach her daughters and their classmates to be proud of their heritage.
Union by Sara Cassidy (Orca Book Publishers)
In this fascinating novel written in verse, fifteen-year-old Tuck explores new love, past trauma and standing up for what’s right. At the fast-food restaurant where he works, Tuck is asked to explore starting up a union and learns to imagine a life where he is happier.
Releasing Fall, 2022!
The Corn Chief by Karen Whetung, illustrated by Lindsay Delaronde (Medicine Wheel Education)
This story features a young female character trying to become chief, told in images of traditional corn husk dolls. When the old chief steps down, young Linny dreams of being chosen as his replacement. Being chief has always been a male-dominated role. Can Linny help change this?
Fashion Forward: Striving for Sustainable Style by Raina Delisle (Orca Book Publishers)
Meet the young designers and fashion superstars who are working to reverse the devastating impacts of the clothing industry. Fashion Forward lifts the veil of glamour to explore the real social and environmental issues within the fashion industry, and what leaders are doing to make the industry more sustainable.
Voice of Rebellion: How Mozhdah Jamalzadah Brought Hope to Afghanistan by Roberta Staley (Greystone Books)
The first-ever biography of Mozhdah Jamalzadah—one of the most powerful female voices of her generation in Afghanistan. Mozhdah is a refugee and pop star, boldly speaking out about women’s rights, even in the face of serious threat.
Fresh Air, Clean Water: Defending Our Right to a Healthy Environment by Megan Clendenan, illustrated by Julie McLaughlin (Orca Book Publishers)
We all have a right to a healthy and pollution-free environment. And when those rights are violated, we also have the right to demand change. This book profiles kids around the world who are taking action on environmental rights court cases.
The Youngest Sister by Suniyay Moreno, illustrated by Mariana Chiesa (Greystone Kids Books)
A stunning debut from Indigenous author Suniyay Moreno. Meet Picu—a poor girl from a big family in the Andean foothills. After being given a big task, Picu must use her tactfulness and resourcefulness to help her family.
Flower Power by Ann Walsh (Orca Book Publishers)
A witty and moving novel about peaceful protest and activism. Young Callie’s mother has chained herself to a tree. She refuses to come down until their neighbour agrees to leave the tree standing. The protest draws the town and the media’s attention, and Callie learns a valuable lesson about activism and standing up for the planet.
Anna Carries Water by Olive Senior, illustrated by Laura James (Tradewind Books)
A charming family story set in Jamaica by Commonwealth Prize-winning author Olive Senior. Meet Anna, who must walk everyday to fetch water for her family from the spring. Readers will learn about the importance of determination and overcoming their fears.
Better Connected: How Girls Are Using Social Media for Good by Tanya Lloyd Kyi and Julia Kyi, illustrated by Vivian Rosas (Orca Book Publishers)
Meet the young girls around the world who are using social media to create positive change and encourage good digital citizenship! Better Connected explores topics such as environmental activism, gun control, immigration policy and education access through an online lens, and profiles the young changemakers around the world who are advocating for them online.