Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a casual observer, our province offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. The books below explore the stunning variety of wildlife that make BC its home, highlighting everything from the iconic grizzly bear to the solitary wolf and vibrant marine life that thrives within one of the most biodiverse regions in Canada.
How to Know a Crow by Candace Savage, Illustrated by Rachel Hudson (Greystone Books)
Crows are all around us, shouting from lamp posts, poking around on lawns, and generally taking a bright-eyed interest in everything that moves. But most of us don’t know much about their lives. In How to Know a Crow, award-winning author Candace Savage invites us into the fascinating world of these big, brash, and surprisingly brainy birds. Suitable for readers 9-12, get up close and personal with a clever corvid and discover the fascinating world of crows.
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A Day with Yayah by Nicola Campbell, Illustrated by Julie Flett (Tradewind Books)
Set in the Nicola Valley, British Columbia, a First Nations family goes on an outing to gather edible plants and mushrooms. The grandmother, Yayah, passes down her knowledge of the natural world to her young grandchildren.
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Canadian Wildlife Activity Book by Tom Hunter (Heritage House Publishing)
For generations, Tom Hunter’s Canadian Wildlife Activity Book series has introduced children of all ages to the amazing variety of animals that live from coast to coast to coast—from the blue whale to the pygmy shrew, the leopard frog to the chickadee. The new Canadian Wildlife Activity Book combines the best of Hunter’s outstanding illustrations and activities in one volume.
Providing hours of fun and learning and fostering respect for biodiversity and the natural world, this interactive activity book is perfect for young readers, road trips, camping trips, and quiet weekends at home.
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Thinking Like a Wolf by Rick McIntyre (Greystone Books)
In his latest book, award-winning author and renowned wolf researcher Rick McIntyre explores the intricate world of wolf behaviour in Yellowstone National Park, highlighting the individual character traits that allow wolf packs to thrive.
Thinking Like a Wolf provides readers with a unique window into the fascinating inner workings of wolf packs, including the intricacy of packs and the unique attributes each wolf has. In these true stories, he celebrates the many lessons we can learn from wolf packs and the dynamic personalities that enable them to expand across new territories amidst adversity.
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Owls: Who Gives a Hoot? by Frances Backhouse (Orca Book Publishers)
Owls: Who Gives a Hoot? reveals the secrets of these mysterious birds and the important role they play in our lives and their ecosystems. Learn about the 19 species that live in Canada and the United States—from the tiny elf owl to the hefty great horned owl. And meet the scientists, activists, and young people who are working to keep these iconic birds in flight and turning heads for years to come.
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Blue Camas, Blue Camas by Danielle S. Marcotte (Heritage House Publishing)
Blue Camas, Blue Camas tells the story of a flower that is native to the Northwest Coast of North America. For thousands of years, it has been considered a sacred and valuable plant by the Indigenous Peoples of this region, who harvested and traded Blue Camas bulbs all along the west coast.
This beautifully illustrated picture book is an ode to a way of life that was threatened and nearly destroyed through miscommunication and colonization. It also raises awareness for food rights, biodiversity, and the preservation of ecosystems, offering children and teachers the opportunity to discuss these important themes in an open and constructive way.
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Takaya: Lone Wolf by Cheryl Alexander (Rocky Mountain Books)
Takaya explores the unique bond between a solitary wolf and wildlife photographer Cheryl Alexander. Takaya, a wild wolf living on a remote island in British Columbia’s Salish Sea, thrives amid boat traffic and urban proximity. Over several years, Alexander documented his life, unraveling his mysteries through journal entries, interviews, and stunning photography. This captivating story of a lone but peaceful wolf raises profound questions and is sure to inspire and touch many hearts.
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Heaven on the Half Shell by David George Gordon, Samantha Larson and MaryAnn Barron Wagner (Touchwood Editions)
Heaven on the Half Shell offers a detailed history of the Pacific Northwest’s iconic oyster, from early sea gardens 11,500 years ago to modern aquaculture in Washington, Oregon, British Columbia, northern California, and southeastern Alaska. The book highlights the challenges faced by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous oyster farmers, weaving personal stories with key historical moments, including the contributions of Japanese immigrants and the 1994 Rafeedie decision affirming tribal shellfish rights. It also explores innovations that made oysters a popular food, from year-round “sexless” oysters to breakthroughs in oyster cuisine.
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50 Keystone Fauna Species of Coastal British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest: A Pocket Guide by Collin Varner (Heritage House Publishing)
This user-friendly field guide by bestselling naturalist Collin Varner features 50 keystone species of the Pacific Northwest, from British Columbia to Northern California. Highlighting animals that are vital to their ecosystems, the guide covers birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, insects, and shellfish, including the Bald Eagle, Sea Otter, Orca, Grizzly Bear, Chinook Salmon, Pacific Banana Slug, and more.
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