8 picture books with heart for the young readers in your life

“Heart Berry Bling,” by Jenny Kay Dupuis, illus. Eva Campbell, Portage & Main Press, 48 pages, $24.95

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“What Will I Discover?” by Tanya Lloyd Kyi, illustrated by Rachel Qiuqi, Greystone Books, 36 pages, $22.95

A captivating book that helps readers understand the importance of asking questions even if we don’t have all of the answers. The main character shares many of the questions she has about different things. The vibrant, soft and gentle illustrations celebrate and validate young children’s ideas, noticing, curiosities and discoveries.

“Salat in Secret,” by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, illustrated by Hatem Aly, Random House Studio, 40 pages, $25.99

An empowering story about identity. Muhammad is determined to pray all of the five daily prayers on time. He is nervous because one of the prayers is during the school day and he may have to pray publicly. Inspired by his father, Muhammad learns what it means to be brave.

“Heart Berry Bling,” byJenny Kay Dupuis, illustrated by Eva Campbell, Portage & Main Press, 48 pages, $24.95

An important story about family, traditions and the continued impact of the Indian Act. Maggie is excited to visit her grandmother and they do a beading project together. Through the project, Maggie learns how beadwork helped her grandmother stay connected to her culture. Both feel a sense of love, respect and healing.

“A Day With No Words,” by Tiffany Hammond, illustrated by Kate Cosgrove, Wheat Penny Press, 48 pages, $20.99

A beautiful story about Aidan who is on the Autism spectrum and uses an assistive device to express himself during the day. Readers learn that Aidan loves his mother’s voice, the park and being barefoot on soft grass. The detailed and intricate illustrations show readers the tender, kind, inquisitive and caring nature of Aidan.

“The Together Tree,” by Aisha Saeed, illustrated by LeUyen Pham, Salaam Reads, 40 pages, $22.99

An inspirational book about belonging. Rumi, a new student, is getting bullied. At recess, he sits alone beneath the shady old willow tree. The bullying gets worse until one student stands up to support Rumi. This action encourages others to also support him. This book also models forgiveness and second chances.

“Peaceful Me,” by Sandra V. Feder, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell, Groundwood Books, 23 pages, $19.99

A tender and thoughtful book that shows readers what being peaceful can look like in different situations. The character feels peaceful when he is with his friends and family. Readers also learn about the times he is not feeling peaceful and the strategies he uses to feel calm and at ease.

“I am BIG,” by Itah Sadu, illustrated by Marley Berot, Second Story Press, 32 pages, $21.95

A powerful book about a young Black hockey player who is navigating what it means to be BIG and small in the hockey space. Support from his family and community encourages him to disrupt the stereotypes and racism he is facing by finding joy and confidence in his skills and game.

“Just One Little Light,” by Kat Yeh, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault, Balzer & Bray, 32 pages, $19.99

A spectacular and awe-inspiring book about the power we all have to create change in our communities. The book models and reminds readers that our small actions can lead to transformative and long-lasting change. The delightful and gorgeous illustrations bring the beautiful words to life and will inspire readers.

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