These are stories we’ve returned to again and again in our families. Their rhythm, warmth, and honesty resonate with both toddlers and the grown-ups who read to them. Some are classics, some are quiet favourites that we had to share. All are part of the conversation around growing up gently.
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by Marcus Pfister
A modern classic about friendship, generosity, and learning to share what makes us special. With its shimmering scales and gentle message, this story has captivated readers around the world since its first publication in Switzerland.
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Chapters Indigo | Barnes & Noble | Waterstones UK
by Andrea Beck
A gentle bedtime journey across the provinces and territories, Goodnight, Canada by Andrea Beck celebrates the beauty and diversity of our country as a child says goodnight from coast to coast. A warm, classic Canadian favourite.
Also available from Chapters Indigo
by Roch Carrier
Illutrated by Sheldon Cohen
A timeless Canadian favourite about identity, belonging, and the heartbreak of being sent the wrong jersey. When Roch dreams of wearing the same Montreal Canadiens sweater as all his friends, a mix-up from Eaton’s delivers a Toronto Maple Leafs sweater instead, and, of course, chaos on the ice follows. This funny story captures the heart of Canadian winters and the pride of small-town hockey culture.
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by Shana Cory
Illutrated by Rebecca Gibbon
A joyful tribute to the women who changed the face of baseball, Players in Pigtails tells the story of girls who stepped up to the plate during the 1940s and proved they could play with skill, spirit, and style. With lively vintage-inspired illustrations and an empowering message, this picture book celebrates determination, teamwork, and the love of the game.
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The story follows Mr. and Mrs. Mallard as they search for the perfect place to raise their ducklings in Boston.
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With just a purple crayon, Harold creates his own world and adventures, showing children the endless possibilities of storytelling and art.
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This story follows the determined little blue engine who proves that believing in yourself can make even the biggest challenges possible.
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This story follows the determined little blue engine who proves that believing in yourself can make even the biggest challenges possible.
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Franklin in the Dark introduces readers to Franklin the turtle, who is afraid of crawling into his own shell.
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Alligator Pie is a beloved Canadian classic by Dennis Lee, filled with playful rhymes that generations of children have grown up reciting.
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Corduroy and the rest of the series is a classic first published in 1968, this story follows a teddy bear in green overalls on his search for a missing button.
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A classic tale first published in 1940, Caps for Sale follows a peddler whose neatly stacked caps are stolen by a group of playful monkeys.
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A quiet classic that captures the simple joy of picking berries with a parent, Blueberries for Sal celebrates independence, togetherness, and the unexpected ways we mirror each other.
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A wonderful story about perseverance and growing up, told through Peter’s simple goal of learning to whistle.
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A whimsical Canadian classic that follows curious, confident Stella and her little brother Sam on a day at the beach.
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Max’s journey to the land of the Wild Things has captivated generations with its bold artwork and heartfelt simplicity.
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A bedtime favourite that never gets old after 75 years!
Gentle rhymes, soft illustrations, and a peaceful tone that eases little ones toward sleep.
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Smart, funny, and proudly Canadian.
This one flips the princess story on its head, and we love it.
Timeless even after 40 years!
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A beautifully illustrated adventure with one mischievous bunny.
Classic, charming, and just the right mix of naughty and sweet.
These tiny hardcover books are the perfect size for little hands to hold.
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Another wonderful story by a Canadian author.
This classic book is all about the bond between parent and child.
So many families have shared tears and giggles over this one all over the world.
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Also Available from:
Chapters Indigo | Barnes & Noble | Waterstones UK
A soft and reassuring story about waiting, worry, and the comfort of being reunited.
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A classic for over 65 years! We meet the polite little bear in this book as we follow along on his marmalade-loving misadventures.
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A whimsical, hopeful journey through the ups, downs, and in-betweens of growing up.
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A gentle story of love and reassurance, perfect for little ones facing separation, new routines, or uncertain moments.
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