Orca’s Education Sales Manager, Sarah, recommends these five fantastic books that are must-haves for your classroom library!
Raymond the Buffalo
A story about love for books and the strength of friendship
“With his wily eyes and endearing grin, plucky Raymond offers a lesson in enduring friendships, old and new. An unusual, touching adventure involving a book, a library, and a friend.”—Kirkus Reviews
Shelter: Homelessness in Our Community
Explores the complicated question and possible solutions around homelessness
“An outstanding, sophisticated introduction to a complex topic, this book encourages readers to prioritize kindness towards and dignity for people experiencing homelessness. Recommended as a first purchase.”—School Library Journal, starred review
Riley Can’t Stop Crying
An introduction to gender identity for children
“Insightfully emotional…A poignant, purposeful depiction of a family learning to recognize, confront, and heal internal struggles with self-love and self-worth. Children in need of encouragement will find comforting revelations about the value of individuality.”—School Library Journal, starred review
The King of Jam Sandwiches
Winner of the Governor General’s Award
“A superb middle grade novel that focuses on the effects of poverty and mental illness on children and their families. Not only is it a realistic portrayal, but its being written in a nonjudgmental and compassionate way allows children to better understand a very serious topic. Highly Recommended.”—CM: Canadian Review of Materials
Powwow: A Celebration through Song and Dance
Winner of the 2021 Norma Fleck Award for Nonfiction
“Clearly organized and educational—an incredibly useful tool for both school and public libraries…This comprehensive primer of the history and importance of the powwow in North American Indigenous culture is a necessary purchase.”—School Library Journal, starred review
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