Welcome to Berrigan E.S. Virtual Library's Google Site

Welcome to the library's website. This site was created during the pandemic to bring a bit of the library to you at home. It has so many great resources, I will keep it up and available to the school's community. To view the different pages of this site, just click on the three bars at the top left of this page.

Just remember - "Reading gives us someplace to go when you have to stay where you are"

Mrs. Randall

Mrs. Randall's new favourite picks

In this section I will post books that I think you might like. Check it out!

June!!! The last month before Summer vacation is finally here. June is a busy month. Not only does it represent the winding down of the school year but it is also National Indigenous History Month, Pride Month, Italian Heritage Month and Portuguese Heritage Month. Such a busy month and one that will fly right by, so pick up a book and learn a little more about Indigenous history, or Pride Month or about the wonderful people with Italian or Portuguese heritage. Here are some picks for you.

Ottawa Public Library

This e-book can be downloaded from the OPL. Here is a summary of the book. Celebrating the stories of Indigenous people throughout time, Wab Kinew has created a powerful rap song, the lyrics of which are the text for this picture book, illustrated by the acclaimed Joe Morse. Including figures such as Crazy Horse, Net-no-kwa, former NASA astronaut John Herrington and Canadian NHL goalie Carey Price, Go Show the World showcases a diverse group of American and Canadian Indigenous people, both the more well-known and the not so widely recognized. Individually, their stories, though briefly touched on, are inspiring; collectively, they empower the reader with this message: "We are people who matter, yes, it's true; now let's show the world what people who matter can do.

Ottawa Public Library

This is a picture book with beautiful pictures and a story about fitting in. Here is the summary. You can find this ebook on the OPL website. A young Indigenous girl moves to the big city and learns to find connections to her culture and the land wherever she goes, despite encountering bullies and feelings of isolation along the way.

Epic

Ever wonder how the rainbow flag came to represent the lgbtq2s+ community? Here is the story of the person who created the flag that flies so proudly during Pride Month. Find this book on the Epic site.

Storyline Online

One of my go to stories, I love this story and hearing Mary Steenburgen read it makes it even better. You will want pasta after listing to this story. Just click on the book's cover picture to go to the video.

Ottawa Public Library

Do you like Soccer? Meet one of the best soccer players in the World, Cristiano Ronaldo who comes from Portugal. This is not an ebook, so you would need to go to the library to pick the actual book up, or get it sent to the bookmobile.

May is here!!! Trees are starting to bud and bloom, tulips are coming out and the birds are back, such a lovely time of year!! May is Asian and Jewish Heritage month. Here are some book picks that highlight these amazing cultures.

Epic

Lali's Feather

Lali finds a little feather in the field. Who might it belong to? Find this book on Epic

Epic

. Maggie struggles to master her chopsticks and everyone around the dinner table has something to say about the “right” way to hold them. Find this story on the Epic site.

Ottawa Public Library

Curious about the Jewish holidays? Very young readers learn about holiday customs with everyone's favorite inquisitive spider! Find this ebook on the OPL Website.

SORA

Use your OCDSB Google Login to access SORA, an online ebook and audio book site. Here you will find hundreds of titles of both ebooks and audiobooks that you can check out. Amy loves to make bao with her family. But it takes skill to make the bao taste and look delicious. And her bao keep coming out all wrong. Then she has an idea that may give her a second chance…Will Amy ever make the perfect bao?

April is here!!! A step closer to warmer weather and longer days. This year Ramadan falls in April from April 2, to May 2. April is also Autism awareness month with April 2nd World Autism Awareness Day. Here are some books that help celebrate all that is going on in April.

Epic

Lailah's Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story

Lailah is in a new school in a new country. When Ramadan begins, she is excited to participate but worried her classmates won't understand. Find this book on the Epic Site.

Epic

This is a new Ramadan book to me. It is a lovely way to explain what happens during the month of Ramadan. Find it on Epic

Epic

All My Stripes: A Story for Children With Autism

Zane, a zebra with autism, worries about how different he is until he learns autism is only one of many qualities that make him special.

Epic

Here is a book for the older reader on Temple Grandin. This book explains Autism and then highlights Temple, who used her unique talents to champion Animal Rights. Find this book on the Epic site.

Epic

April 1st is April Fools Day. Get yourself ready by reading this book from Epic. Have fun!!

Time for the March Break!!! This week is a great time to dive into a chapter book or an activity book. Here are my picks for the week. I hope everyone has a wonderful, relaxing break!!

Epic

Are you a Minecraft fan? Epic has a large selection of Minecraft book, some with tips on how to build things in Minecraft, some with fiction stories about the characters in the game and even the biography of the creator. If Minecraft is your thing, Epic has you covered.

Ottawa Public Library

Do you like Star Wars? Try this funny e-chapter book about a boy who creates a Origami Yoda. There are instructions at the end of the book on how to create one of your own. Here is the summary of the book (it also comes in French!)

Sixth-grader Tommy and his friends describe their interactions with a paper finger puppet of Yoda, worn by their weird classmate Dwight, as they try to figure out whether or not the puppet can really predict the future.

Ottawa Public Library

Geronimo and his adventures are some of my favourite books. Here is the French version found on the Ottawa Public Library site. There are a lot of titles to choose from, so there should be one that you love. Download one today!

Epic

For older readers who love Manga. Find this book on the Epic site. Here is the summary

Dana is a lonely manga fan traveling to Japan with her school. While she enjoys the culture in Japan, she struggles to fit in.

BibliovideoBibliovideo is a YouTube channel all about Canadian children’s books. New videos are added to the channel twice weekly. With funding from the Canada Council for the Arts, Bibliovideo is the first step in a long-range digital strategy being developed by a consortium of organizations led by the Canadian Children’s Book Centre that includes the Association of Canadian Publishers/49thKids, Canadian School Libraries, CANSCAIP, Communication-Jeunesse and IBBY Canada. Bibliovidéo est une chaîne YouTube consacrée aux livres jeunesse canadiens. De nouvelles vidéos sont ajoutées deux fois par semaine. Grâce au financement du Conseil des arts du Canada, Bibliovidéo est la première étape d'une stratégie numérique à long terme élaborée par un consortium d'organisations dirigé par le Centre canadien du livre jeunesse qui comprend l'Association des éditeurs canadiens / 49thKids, Canadian School Libraries, CANSCAIP, Communication-Jeunesse et IBBY Canada.

From the Canadian Children's Book Centre comes a Youtube channel that shows Canadian Authors reading their books and illustrators demonstrating how to draw. Just click on the link to go to the site.

You can't beat Canadian books!!!

www.youtube.com/c/Bibliovideo/videos

It's the last full week of February! Since Wed. is Pink Shirt Day, lets read books this week on Kindness.

Ottawa Public Library

You are a blessing. / You are beautiful just as you are. / You are loved, / and you love. / You make mistakes, / and it's okay to make mistakes, / because that's how you learn. Lyrical and poignant, Loving Kindness encourages us to be tender with ourselves and others, and to open our hearts to the world. This vibrant picture book celebrates connection, compassion, and life. Find this ebook at the Public Library site.

Ottawa Public Library

You can't go wrong with a Todd Parr book. This book looks at different ways to show kindness, including choosing kind words, giving compliments, and offering help without being asked. Find this ebook at the Ottawa Public Library Site.

Epic

Find this French picture book on Kindness on the Epic Site

Epic

Being kind to family and friends is great but wouldn't it be wonderful is everyone was kind to everyone, even strangers. What can we do for others in our community that might need a little help? Lily and the Paper Man is a good book for introducing doing kind things for others in need. Find this picture book on the Epic Site.

Ottawa Public Library

It's the 10th Anniversary of the book Wonder by R.J. Palacio. This Chapter book about a boy who looks different than everyone else, sparked a "choose kind" movement. It is a must read. Here is a summary - Auggie Pullman, who was born with extreme facial abnormalities, goes from being home-schooled to entering fifth grade at a private middle school in Manhattan, which entails enduring the taunting and fear of his classmates..

This is a good book for the advanced reader

It's February!!!!!! February is full of special days and Holidays. The whole month is dedicated to Black History too. So busy for such a short Month.

Epic

Find the story of Viola Desmond on the Epic site. Canadian Black history is Canadian History. The more we know the more we understand. I just wish there were more picture books about Black Canadian experiences out there. Epic has a vast amount of American Black History books if you would like to read up more and learn more about Black History Month.

Epic

A lush and lyrical biography of Harriet Tubman, written in verse and illustrated by an award-winning artist. Learn more about this amazing, strong woman who helped hundreds of slaves escape to Canada on the Underground Railway.

Kayak Magazine

This edition of Kayak, featuring guest co-editor Natasha Henry, shares some amazing stories and examples of the ways Black Canadians built and shaped this country. Not only will you get the same great stories as the original, we’ve added three new articles featuring people who have helped preserve and promote Black history, Black women’s organizations with long histories, and we will introduce you to Canadians with Afro-Indigenous heritage. Just click on the Kayak picture to go to this magazine

Ottawa Public Library

Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations of the year among East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities, among others. The New Year celebration is usually celebrated for multiple days—not just one day as in the Gregorian calendar’s New Year. In 2022, Lunar New Year begins on February 1 and lasts for 15 days. There are many books out there about the Lunar New Year, like this one at the Ottawa Public Library. Read about Mindy who is excited to go to the Lunar New Year parade in her new town with her father and her friend Sally. Happy Year of the Tiger!!!

Epic

Feb. 2nd is Groundhog Day. Learn about this quirky holiday.

Epic

The XXIV Winter Olympics begin on Feb. 4th. I always love watching the opening ceremony. Here are two books from Epic that describe some of the sports that are a part of the Games.

Snow Day!!!!!! I always love snow days, until it is time to clear the snow. I do love how peaceful it is outside while the snow is falling, it also is so very pretty. We will see you back at school tomorrow, enjoy the year's first real snow day.

Epic

A perfect book for today. Find this book on the Epic site. Here is the summary

Mouse has a blast ice-skating, sledding, and building snow animals-always just one step ahead of sly Cat.

Storyline Online

Listen to former Vice President Al Gore read Brave Irene. Here is the summary. Hopefully you won't have to deliver anything in the storm today.

Plucky Irene, a dressmaker's daughter, braves a fierce snowstorm to deliver a new gown to the duchess in time for the ball

Epic

Monday, January 17th is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Learn more about Martin Luther King from the Epic site. There are a lot of books about Martin Luther King Jr on this site and videos too.

Still home this week, but we might be back soon. Since this week started off so cold, I thought the theme this week would be all things ice. The cold means the outdoor rinks are up and running, thanks to all the wonderful neighbourhood volunteers. If you get the chance, visit one and have fun on the ice.

Storyline Online

Listen to Ray Romano read Henry Holton takes to the Ice. I love Ray's voice, and this is such a good book about listening to one's heart and doing what makes you happy. Just click on the picture to take you to the video

Ottawa Public Library

This French ebook (comes in English too) is about Young Jacques Plante. His way of playing hockey may look different from everyone else's. Instead of a puck, he uses a tennis ball, and his shin pads are made out of potato sacks and wooden slats. But that's not going to stop him. He loves the game. Jacques is drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in his mid-twenties. Fans love the unstoppable goalie as he leads his team to one victory after another. But there's a price to pay: pucks to the face result in a broken jaw, broken cheekbones, multiple stitches, and even a skull fracture. One day, Jacques has had enough. He goes on the ice wearing a fiberglass mask. The coach orders him to take it off. Finally, at a game against the Rangers, when yet another puck hits Jacques square in the face, he puts his foot down. He will not continue to play unless he's allowed to wear a mask.

Download this book from the Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

If you pick up books at the library, look for this one next time. It is not available on ebook yet. Here is the summary

If you lived in a house in the woods and all your friends were hibernating you'd probably hate winter, just like this little boy. But one day a strange spiky figure appears and transforms the boy's world into a winter wonderland! How long will the magic spell last?

Epic

Here is a book about Icy weather from the Epic Site. The temperature in this book is recorded in Fahrenheit, see if you can convert it to Celcius. There are great pictures in this book.

Epic

Did you know Ice Climbing was a sport? Learn all about it in this book from the Epic Site. This sport is a little too dangerous for me, but the scenery looks amazing.

Happy New Year!!! Hopefully we won't be home for very long this time. In the meantime, here are some great books you can enjoy. Over the break I read a great Spy Novel that was dropped off in my library before the break. Therefore I thought this week I would use the spy theme for my recommended books

Ottawa Public Library

This is the book that I read over the break. The public library has it in ebook, audio book and paper book form (it is in French too). I really enjoyed it, so much that I am now reading the second in the series. It is a great book for junior readers. Here is the summary -

Sara Martinez is a hacker. She recently broke into the New York City foster care system to expose her foster parents as cheats and lawbreakers. However, instead of being hailed as a hero, Sara finds herself facing years in a juvenile detention facility and banned from using computers for the same stretch of time. Enter Mother, a British spy who not only gets Sara released from jail but also offers her a chance to make a home for herself within a secret MI6 agency. Operating out of a base in Scotland, the City Spies are five kids from various parts of the world. When they’re not attending the local boarding school, they’re honing their unique skills, such as sleight of hand, breaking and entering, observation, and explosives. All of these allow them to go places in the world of espionage where adults can’t.

EPIC

Secret Agent Josephine is willing to reveal the contents of her stealthy, super expanding spy bag--but are you ready? Find out what tools a spy would need in this counting, fun, picture book. Find it on the EPIC site.

Storyline Online

Listen to Esai Morales as he reads Private I Guana. Just click on the book to take you to the video.

Ottawa Public Library

Zac Power is on a mission to the world's most dangerous island. He has to track down Dr. Drastic, an evil mad scientist, in a jungle is full of quicksand, piranhas, and poison frogs. No sweat! When you come from a family of spies, you do this sort of thing millions of times before the age of twelve.

But this time is different. Something goes terribly wrong and Zac's geeky older brother gets kidnapped. Now, Zac only has 24 hours to find the formula for solution X and stop Dr. Drastic...before his brother gets fed to a volcano!

Find this ebook on the Ottawa Public Library site. If you like this book, the Berrigan library has more in this series.

Ottawa Public Library

Find this funny spy ebook on the Ottawa Public Library site. Here is the summary

Young penguins Jackson, also known as Secret Agent 00Zero, and his inventor-friend, Quigley, investigate who is stealing rare fish from the Rookeryville aquarium, hoping to prove themselves to the Frosty Bureau of Investigation.

Happy Hanukkah!! Here are some great Hanukkah books.

Ottawa Public Library

Celebrate Hanukkah with the Llama family in this joyful, rhyming picture ebook that you can download from the Ottawa Public Library site.

Epic

Here is a great book from the EPIC site that encompases several celebrations that happen around this time of year

Epic

A community stands up for a Family that celebrates Hanukkah instead of Christmas. Inspired by a true story, this is a tale of a community that banded together to spread light. Find this book on the EPIC site.

Storyline Online

Listen to Molly Ephraim read the story, Hanukkah in Alaska on the Storyline Online site. Here is the summary

Hanukkah in Alaska is unlike anywhere else. Snow piles up over the windows. Daylight is only five hours long. And one girl finds a moose camped out in her backyard, right near her favorite blue swing. She tries everything to lure it away: apples, carrots, even cookies. But it just keeps eating more tree! It's not until the last night of Hanukkah that a familiar Jewish holiday tradition provides the perfect-and surprising-solution.

Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week is Nov. 21 to 27. Here are some great books that support this week.

Ottawa Public Library

Bullying Awareness Week also focuses on accepting others and being true to ourselves. George is a perfect chapter book for getting to know and understand diverse people. You can download it from the Public Library. Here is the summary.

When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she's not a boy. She knows she's a girl. George thinks she'll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be Charlotte's Web. George really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte. But the teacher says she can't even try out for the part--because she's a boy. With the help of her best friend, Kelly, George comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte--but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all.

Epic

Here is a French book from Epic that details the actions of bullying and the steps to take to stop it. Get it from the Epic site.

A Bad Case of Stripes read by Sean AstinCamilla Cream loves lima beans, but she never eats them. Why? Because the ther kids at her school don't like them. And Camilla Cream is very, very worried about what other people think of her. In fact she is so worried that she's about to break out in... A Bad Case of Stripes

Storyline Online

Listen to Sean Astin read A Bad Case Of Stripes. This story reminds us to stay true to who we are, no matter what others think or try to do to stop us. Just click on the picture to go to the story.

Epic

This is one of my favourite books. It is told from someone who witnesses bullying and goes along with the behavior. Later on in life, he realizes what he had done as a boy. Here is the summary.

Vincent van Gogh is now known as an acclaimed, incomparable painter. But when he lived in France in the 1880s, he was mocked for being different.

Halloween Picks!!!

Epic

I love audio books, and Halloween is a great time to listen to a spooky story, with spooky sounds in it. This audio book from the Epic site is full of spooky sounds and toe tapping music. Give it a listen, it's not too scary.

Epic

The Epic site has much more than books on it. You can find audio books, videos, cooking instructions, crafts and in this case, drawing lessons. Go to the Epic Site to get this quick and easy Draw a Spider Web video.

Ottawa Public Library

Here is a beginner reader French book about Halloween. You can download it from the Ottawa Public Library. Halloween is Chloe's favourite holiday, what costume will she choose?

Ottawa Public Library

It is Thanksgiving Weekend!!! I hope everyone enjoys the long weekend. Here is a cute story from the Ottawa Public library about a turkey who attends 5 Thanksgiving dinners. You can download this ebook for some Thanksgiving giggles.

October is Islamic Heritage Month

The Legislative Assembly of Ontario in 2016 proclaimed the month of October as Islamic Heritage Month. The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board recognizes Islamic Heritage Month each year. Islamic Heritage Month provides an opportunity for all citizens to learn about the history and culture of Ontarians of Muslim heritage who have made an impact in our communities across the province as well as to appreciate the significant contributions made by the Islamic community. This celebration of Muslim history, culture and religion is a time for all of us to reflect, celebrate and learn about these contributions together.

Below are some great sites and books that celebrate this Month

1001 Inventions and the Library of Secrets

Click on this link to watch a short movie about Muslim inventions during ancient times.

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/1/?tab=wm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgxwKhqkQwMvxDZlPVlTjhnmtJkDq?projector=1

Epic

This book magnificently captures the world of Islam, celebrating its beauty and traditions for even the youngest readers. Find it on the Epic Site

Epic

A boy, a science project and an answer to a critical problem. Sometimes it takes a kid to imagine a better idea. Find this book on the Epic site

Ottawa Public Library

September is traditionally the month when schools participate in a Terry Fox Run to help raise money for Cancer Research. Here is a great book, written from the perspective of Terry's friend Doug Alward. You can download it from the Ottawa Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

Epic

This September 30th is the first time we will honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. When I was Eight is the story of what happens when a young girl leaves her Northern community and attends a Residential School.

Epic

The terrible experience of Residential Schools not only occured at the schools, but continued after the children returned to their communities. Not my Girl continues Lemaun's story as she returns to her community.

Ottawa Public Library

Orange Shirt Day will also be held on September 30th. Every Child Matters is the message behind wearing an orange shirt this day and to remember the Indigenous children who were taken from their family and community and forced to attend schools far away. Schools that would not allow them to speak their own language or practice their customs. Schools that were not kind or caring. To learn more about Residential Schools, you can check out Le chandail orange de Phyllis from the Ottawa Public library. It is in French and English.

Welcome back to the new school year!!! Until I post new recommendations, enjoy going through past posts.

We did it, we got to the end of this very different school year!!! I am so proud of everyone for hanging in there, trying your best and being flexible through all the changes and challenges of this school year. I wish you all an amazing Summer and can't wait to see you in the Fall. Take care and don't forget to READ!!!!!!

Ottawa Public Library

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day to celebrate the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Here is an e- book from the Ottawa Public Library that celebrates past and current Indigenous Heroes. We have this at Berrigan's library too.

EPIC

June 23 is World Rainforest Day. I found this cute rhyming story on the Epic site that has amazing illustrations of some creatures who live in the Rainforest. At the end of the story, there are more facts on the creatures featured in the book and information on how the author did her illustrations. If you are looking for more information on the Rainforest, Epic also has a lot of non fiction Rainforest books on its site.

EPIC

June 23 is World Olympic Day. I found this uplifting story on the EPIC site about Olympic Swimmer, Yusra Mardini. She was a Syrian refugee who saved a boat full of refugees and went on to swim in the last Olympics Games in Brazil. Read her amazing story.

The Night I Followed the Dog read by Amanda BynesHave you ever wondered where dogs go at night, and what they do? Well the little boy in this story has reason to believe that there is something funny going on, and he's ready to find out what it is.

Storyline Online

June 24th is take your dog to work day. I didn't find a book about that, but I found a book about a dog's secret nightlife. Listen to Amanda Bynes as she reads, The Night I Followed the Dog. Just click on the picture to go to the video.

MinMag

We are coming up to Canada Day. Here is a great French Magazine all about Canada and Canadian things. It has stories, crafts, how to draw and search and find pages in it. Enjoy and have a happy Canada Day!!! Just click on the picture to go to the magazine.

Past Favourites

We are close to the end of the school year this week. 2 more weeks to go. I heard that camps are going to be run this summer, so I thought I would dedicate this week's picks to summer camps!!! Camps are a great opportunity to get out, meet friends, learn a new skill and get away from the computer!!!!

Ottawa Public library

Download this ebook from the Ottawa public Library. This title was on the OPL recommended list two years ago and is a fun read. If you like this book, EPIC has two of its sequels available on its site. Here is the summary - Camp Average is a middle-grade novel that tells the story of a group of 11-year-old boys sharing Cabin 10 at a six-week summer sports camp for boys. The actual name of the place is Camp Avalon, but the kids call it Camp Average, because they never win at any sport. And that's the way they like it. But this summer, Winston, the new camp director doesn't like losing, and he's not about to start! Led by the main protagonist, Mack, and his best friend Andre, the boys in Cabin 10 have a different plan. They're going to lose like they've never lost before, at every sport, but especially at the baseball tournament with the three nearby powerhouse camps. That way, they'll get their summer back! In a story full of plotting, planning and plenty of push-ups, it's a full court press on losing for the campers, strategic play-by-play for the camp director, and great teamwork on all sides. Who will come out on top?"

EPIC

Here is a cute story on the Epic site. Roxie is excited to be going away to camp, but scared that the other dogs will find out the secret she's hiding

Ottawa Public Library

Download this French book from the Ottawa Public Library. Ben and his little brother go to Summer Camp and learn new skills and gain some independence.

Ottawa Public Library

Here is a Graphic novel about day camp. Second grade isn't always a breeze for Birdie. There are just so many opportunities to embarrass herself! But Birdie's got a secret weapon that nobody knows about―her alter-ego, Crafty Cat! Birdie can become Crafty Cat without anyone noticing, and she always manages to get herself out of a jam using her awesome crafting skills! When Birdie goes to a day-camp for crafting, she knows she's going to have a great time and be the best in the group. But when things go wrong, can Crafty Cat help Birdie set them right? Download this Graphic Novel from the Ottawa Public library site.

Audible

Audible has free audio books for kids and don't forget that June is National Audiobook month. If you like scary tales, this book from the author of Goosebumps, can deliver you frights, scares and shivers. It comes alive even more since you listen to the story.

Here we are at the second week of June, and boy the weather is hot!!!! If you can find a cool shady spot, that is just the place to be to sit down and dive into a good book.

EPIC

On June 2nd it was announced that Margaret-Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton, the Inuvialuit knowledge keeper, residential school survivor and co-author of bestselling book Fatty Legs: A True Story had passed away at the age of 84. This was the first book about residential schools that was circulated in schools across Canada. It was also the first book I read about this terrible history, since no one spoke about it when I was growing up. Please take the time to read this, or one of Margaret's other books about residential schools. Without knowledge we can not go forward with understanding or reconciliation. You can find this book on the Epic site or the Ottawa Public Library site. Our school library has it as well. It is published in English and in French.

EPIC

Here is another book that celebrates Indigenous history. Join two children and their Grandmother as they go on a trip to the river to ice fish. Find this French picture book on the Epic site.

Ottawa Public Library

June is National Audiobook month. Audible provides a platform for audio books and has a free Kids section, but did you know you can download audio books from the Ottawa Public Library? Here is a statement from the Junior Library Guild about the benefits of audiobooks. "Through the narration—the tone of voice, pace, pronunciation, emotion and more—audiobooks add even more color to the worlds inside stories. Perfect for aural learners, reluctant readers, English language learners, and busy book lovers, audiobooks explore and enhance vital literacy skills such as vocabulary, language acquisition, comprehension, and more." Give them a try, I love them when I am on a train trip or a long trip in the car. I funny can be found as an audio book through the Ottawa public library, its sure to make you laugh.

Ottawa Public Library

June 8th is World Ocean Day. Here is an ebook all about the Ocean that can be downloaded from the Ottawa Public Library. Learn about our beautiful oceans and help protect one of the world's most precious natural resource.

The Rainbow Fish read by Ernest BorgnineThe Rainbow Fish is an award-winning book about a beautiful fish who finds friendship and happiness when he learns to share. The book is best known for its morals about the value of being an individual and for the distinctive shiny foil scales of the Rainbow Fish.

Storyline Online

Although Rainbow Fish is not a book specifically about the Ocean, it does have wonderful illustrations of the Oceans and the creatures that live in it. It also has a great message about sharing. Just click on the picture to go to the story read by Ernest Borgnine.

It's June, one of my favourite months. This month is National Indigenous History Month and Pride Month, so my picks will reflect these two themes. Enjoy this first week of June!!!!

Ottawa Public Library

My heart broke this week when I heard about the discovery of 215 bodies of children found near an old Residencial School site. The Residential School system was a horrible, inexcusable part of Canada's past and we should stand in solidarity with the Indigenous Community and support them as they hopefully move towards healing. This book from the Ottawa Public Library details some of the experiences of being at a Residential school. Here is the summary - When a young girl helps tend to her grandmother's garden, she begins to notice things about her grandmother that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long braided hair and wear beautifully coloured clothing? Why does she speak another language and spend so much time with her family? As she asks her grandmother about these things, she is told about life in a residential school a long time ago, where everything was taken away. When We Were Alone is a story about a difficult time in history and, ultimately, a story of empowerment and strength.

EPIC

Join a family as they search for their missing dog during a Pride Parade. This book is for the younger reader and uses a rhyming alphabet form.

EPIC

Here is another great book on the Epic site. This is a great book about gender expression.

Epic

Learn about Buffy Sainte-Marie, a Canadian Indigenous artist. Find this interesting Biography on the Epic site

Audible

Audible has free children's audio stories. Enjoy the beautiful weather and sit outside while you listen to the wonderful, classic story, The Secret Garden.

The last week of May is here!!! The weather is warm, plants are coming up, trees are filling out with leaves and baby animals are popping up around the neigbourhood. This is one of my favourite times of year. Fun fact, National Hamburger Day is on May 28th. Maybe you can create your own super burger on this day using what ever burger base you love, turkey, beef, lamb, or veggie. Here are this week's book pics.

Storyline Online

Since a Hamburger is like a sandwich, I thought you would like to listen to Allison Janney read Carla's Sandwich. Carla makes some unusual sandwich combinations, but everyone has their own tastes. Just click on the book to go to the video.

Ottawa Public Library

I loved this chapter book about a hotel in the forest for animals. This Ebook can be found on the Ottawa Public Library site. Here is the summary - When Mona the mouse stumbles across the wondrous world of the Heartwood Hotel in the middle of a storm, she desperately hopes the staff will let her stay. As it turns out, Mona is precisely the maid they need at the grandest hotel in Fernwood Forest, where animals come from far and wide for safety, luxury and comfort. But it's not all acorn soufflé and soft, moss-lined beds. Danger lurks nearby, and as it approaches, Mona has to use all her wits to protect the place she's come to love. Because this hotel is more than a warm shelter for the night. It might also be a home.

Ottawa Public Library

Hotel Heartwood can be found in French as well from the Ottawa Public Library. Just dowload the Ebook from their site. If you enjoy this first book, there are two more in the series.

Epic

Learn about the orgins and interesting facts about the tasty Hamburger!! Find this Non Fiction book on the Epic Website.

Epic

To finish up Asian Heritage Month, I thought a look at Anime would be great. This book from the Epic Site tells the story of Anime though its history, decade by decade. It was very intersting and easy to read. I could recognize a lot of this art form from my own life.

May is just moving right along. This coming weekend is Victoria Day Long Weekend, which means next Monday is a holiday. I hope this beautiful weather continues right through the week. Here are my picks for the week.

Epic

Want to know more about Victoria Day? Here is a good book on the subject that can be found on the Epic site. I always loved this holiday because it would be the holiday before Summer started and we would have fireworks and spend the weekend riding our bikes.

Storyline Online

Here is another book for Asian Heritage month. Listen to Rami Malek read this story about a contest to become the heir to the Chinese Emperor. Just click on the book to go to the video.

Minimag

The long weekend in May is traditionally the time to plant flower and vegetable gardens. This edition of the Minimag magazine has a whole section on plants. Just click on the picture to go to the magazine.

Ottawa Public Library

With a long weekend approaching, what a great time to sink yourself into a good book. I just finished this chapter book a week ago and I really loved it. I won't go into too much detail, or I will ruin the book for you, but this book does surprise you. It starts out pretty ordinary, and I was not too excited at first, but it gets really good. How could you not love a story about a candy factory with 4 unique kids trying to invent the next big thing in sweets. You can download this book from the Ottawa Public library.

Epic

May is also Jewish Heritage Month, so I picked out an Epic book that tells a story of a girl helping her grandma get the ingredients for a New Year stew. Now I want stew. Just go to the Epic site to find this book.

This is the second week of May and hopefully the warm Spring weather will be back this week. On Wednesday, it is the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr. I wish all the families celebrating, a very Happy Eid!!

Epic

Once Upon An Eid is a collection of 15 short stories about Eid and can be found on the Epic site. It is very interesting to see Eid through 15 different pairs of eyes. Short stories are great when you don't want to tackle a whole novel, but still want to sink yourself into a book. This book is for the older reader.

Epic

I enjoyed this book on the Epic site, especially how it was illustrated. Happy Eid!!!

TumbleBooks

Enjoy this French book on the TumbleBooks site found on the Ottawa Public Library website. It is a cute story about a wolf who howls at the moon because he is hungry.

Ottawa Public Library

This is a really great chapter book, I read it in three days, I couldn't put it down. This is a story about Mia who has moved to America with her family and they end up managing a small motel for a very mean owner. Being an immigrant, dealing with prejudice against herself and her guests and trying to find friends and a more stable way of life are all topics touched on in this book. Mia is such a great character and you can't help but route for her as you read this book. You can download an ecopy from the Ottawa Public Library. I highly recommend it!!!! (for the older reader)

Storyline Online

As I sit at my dining room table surrounded by my three sleeping cats, I wonder what it would be like to be a cat. This book from Storyline Online gives us the answer. Just click on the book's picture to go to the story video read by Elijah Wood. I wonder how the cat in the boy's body acted at school?

Welcome to May!!!! May is another busy month. This is Asian and South Asian Heritage Month and also Jewish Heritage Month. May also has the holidays of Eid Al-Fitr and Victoria Day. This first week of May is Education Week, and Mental Health Week and May the 4th is a Star Wars Day and Sunday is Mother's Day. Wow, this week is super busy!! Here are some books that are influenced by some of the events happening this week and in May.

Storyline Online

Enjoy this wonderful book read by Michelle Yeoh. I love cranes, they are so beautiful and graceful, and yet so tall. Click on the book's picture to take you to the story.

Epic

Go to the Epic site to read this great non-fiction book about the top 10 best moms in the Animal Kingdom. There are some great facts about amazing moms. Maybe one of the animal moms will remind you of someone.

Epic

Find out what happens when a pirate's mother joins him on his ship. Find this funny French book on the Epic site.

Ottawa Public Library

May the 4th be with you!!! Download this ebook from the public library. This is the first book in the series, so if you enjoy this read, the rest of the series is just as good.

Epic

It's education week!!! Enjoy this book from Epic that describes all the good things about education.

It is the last week of April, and I thought we could celebrate it with a dance party!! International Dance Day is on April 29, what a great way to end the month. You could dance outside, dance inside, dance with your friends online or with your family in your kitchen. It doesn't matter what kind of dance you do, or to what music you dance to, JUST DANCE. You will be amazed at how good it will make you feel.

Epic

Read this small chapter book, or have it read to you on the EPIC site. Can Kenya overcome her stage fright to be there to dance for her friend?

Epic

Here is a graphic novel on the Epic site about a group of girls who attend a dance school. If you like this, the first book in the series, then you can contine with the series.

Epic

Enjoy this fun French book about a little girl finding her voice.

Storyline Online

Listen to Viola Davis read Rent Party Jazz from the Storyline Online site. Sometimes getting together for great music and food and dancing makes all the difference in the world. Here is the summary of the book.

This story is set in New Orleans in the 1930s. Sonny and his mother are scraping by to pay their rent. Mama works in a fish canning factory, and Sonny works for the coal man before school each morning. When Mama loses her job, they no longer have enough money for the rent and fear that the landlord will turn them out. One day Sonny meets Smilin’ Jack, a jazz musician who is playing his trumpet in Jackson Square. Smilin’ Jack offers to play at a party at Sonny’s house to help raise money for the rent. The neighbors all come to sing and dance and before they leave, drop some coins in a bucket. Sonny learns how people can help one another “if they put their minds and hearts to it.”

Just click on the book picture to go to the site.

Ottawa Public Library

This is a memoir graphic novel that you can get as an ebook from the public library. Here is the summary,

"Ballerinas are young when they first dream of dance. Siena was six--and her dreams kept skipping and leaping, circling and spinning, from airy runs along a beach near her home in Puerto Rico, to dance classes at the School of American Ballet, to her debut performance on stage with the New York City Ballet while working with ballet legend George Balanchine. Part family history, part backstage drama, this beautifully updated graphic memoir--which features a refreshed design and a brand-new scrapbook of Siena'smementoss--is an original, firsthand look a young dancer's beginnings. Siena Siegel is an author and former dancer who trained at the School of American Ballet. To Dance is her story."

Earth day is this week, April 22. This week's picks will hopefully inspire you to do your part to" Care for the Earth". If we don't look after the Earth, the Earth won't look after us.

Storyline Online

This book made me think about what do we do with all our garbage. I wish everything we threw out could be recycled. Just click on the book's picture to listen to Justin Theroux read this book.

Ottawa Public Library

Download this early chapter ebook from the Public Library. See how Kylie Jean does her part to help the Earth. Here is the book's summary

Earth Day is coming, and Kylie Jean and the other second graders decide that the perfect way to celebrate is to clean up and beautify the school playground--and the whole town.

TumbleBooks

This is a great book that combines Ramadan and an enviormental cause. This early chapterbook can be found on the TumbleBooks site from the Public Library. Here is the book's sumary.

It's Ramadan, a time to focus on good deeds and to fast, and Badir and his brother, Anis, are out for a walk one evening while they wait for their iftar meal. In the park Badir sees a rat. A very, very large rat. He soon learns it’s actually a beaver, an animal that doesn't live in Tunisia, the country Badir and his family have emigrated from. It turns out that some of the neighbors who enjoy the park think this beaver is a bit of a pest, but Badir thinks it's wonderful and learns everything he can about the iconic Canadian animal. When a petition is started to remove the beaver, Badir, who knows firsthand how difficult it is to leave your home behind, rallies his classmates to save it. And with a little help from new friends, the kids learn that collaboration and faith can change the way we think about the world.

Minimag

Insects are small members of our Earth, but they do big things. Enjoy this French Magazine with some great stories, puzzles and crafts with insects.

Storytime with Mrs. Randall

Join me as I read the Earth Book by Todd Parr. Just click on the book's picture to go to the video.

Next week we start our April Break!!!! Check out the Ottawa Public Library page to get the link to all their great April Break programs. Ramadan also begins next week. Since I will not be posting next week, this week will focus on the break and Ramadan. To all those families celebrating, Ramadan Mubarak!!

Storyline Online

Enjoy listening to Oprah read the Hula-Hoopin' Queen. I picked this book because it reminds me of how much fun I had playing with my hula-hoop when I was younger. Hula-hoops remind me of being outside and enjoying the fresh air while I got plenty of exercise. I hope you get to spend a lot of time outdoors next week, on bikes, skateboards, scooters, or roller skates. Or try your skill at hula-hoopin', or skipping or hopscotch. Maybe you can even get a neighbourhood challenge going. Just click on the picture of the book to go to the video.

EPIC

Enjoy this book about Lailah's first time fasting for Ramadan. What a special time for her and her family. You can find it on the Epic website.

EPIC

This is another good book on the Epic website. It is a simple story, but each page has a purple box with more information in it about this time of year. At the end there is a craft as well.

EPIC

Are you ready to ride your bike without training wheels? Read this book from Epic for some inspiration. Our April break would be a great time to tackle this challenge.

Ottawa Public Library

Here is a chapter e-book that you can download from the Ottawa Public Library site. I used to love Double Dutch skipping, and I hope this book inspires you to try this sport.

Story Time with Mrs. Randall

Join me as I read, Under the Ramadan Moon. This is a special time for our Muslim Community and I wish you all Ramadan Mubarak! Click on the book to hear the video.

April is here!!! What a busy month April is shaping up to be. We have April Fools day, Easter, Passover, Autism Awarness month and Ramadan and that's before we even get to the middle of April. What a lot of great things to look forward to.

EPIC

Find this book about Passover on the Epic site. You can read it yourself, or have it read to you.

Ottawa Public Library

This week Beverly Cleary, a very much loved author, passed away at the age of 104. What a very long life she had and we are so lucky to have many of her books in our library. You can find a large selection of her books through the Public Library on line. I hope you enjoy getting to know spirited Ramona and all the other characters from her books.

EPIC

April is Autism Awarness Month. Here is a book from Epic about two friends that get a long no matter their differences.

Minimag

Enjoy this French Magazine from the Minimag site.

Story Time with Mrs. Randall

It's that old lady again!!!!! Listen to what she swallows this time. Just click on the book to go to the video.

Happy Easter!!!

SPRING!!!!!!! Finally, Winter is over (although it was a rather lovely Winter) and Spring is here. I love Spring, when the days are longer, the sun is stronger and everything starts to turn green again. This week also has Earth Hour!! Join millions of people around the world and switch off your lights in support of nature and our planet on Saturday, 27 March, 2021 at 8:30pm. I love Earth Hour. We turn off all the lights, Tvs and computers in my house and light candles and read books or play cards. I hope you find some fun unplugged things to do during this hour. Here are my picks for this first week of Spring.

EPIC

Epic has a great book on Spring themed crafts. I love the dinosaur garden idea and the kite, for those windy Spring days. Log into the Epic Website to find this book.

EPIC

Learn about Earth Hour in this easy picture book with images from countries around the world.

Ottawa Public library

This is a great Chapter book for the older reader. What would happen if the whole planet lost electricity? Find the ebook on the Ottawa Public Library site and it's available in English and French.

Tumblebooks

Here is a French book about a stuffed rabbit who turns into a real one. Have the story read to you on Tumblebooks, found on the Ottawa Public Library Site.

Story Time with Mrs. Randall

Listen to me read Dot. I hope it inspires you to unplug and go outside and enjoy nature. Just click on the book to go to the video.

This week we celebrate St. Patrick's Day on Wed. March the 17th. It's a day to celebrate all things Irish, even if you have no Irish heritage, it can be a lot of fun. So on Wed. wear green, try to catch a leprechaun, and have a lucky day!!!

EPIC

Here is an easy Non-Fiction book about St. Patrick's Day. Learn about this fun day by visiting the EPIC website and opening this book.

EPIC

Do you like Fairy Tales? Ireland is famous for its Fairy Tales and Folklore, usually involving fairies, little people, or spirits. This reader found on the EPIC site is for the advanced reader. It is very entertaining.

Ottawa Public Library

Download this French chapter book, Artemis Fowl, from the public library web site. Artemis Fowl is an Irish fantasy novel written by Irish author Eoin Colfer. ... Described by its author as "Die Hard with fairies", it follows the adventures of Artemis Fowl, a twelve-year-old criminal mastermind, as he kidnaps a fairy (Holly Short) for a large ransom of gold. I have read the English version, and it is full of action and interesting fairies with big attitudes.

Storyline Online

Although this is not an Irish tale, Sylvester and the Magic Pebble does have magic in it, and that is part of the fun of Irish tales. Listen to Reid Scott read this lovely, but at times sad, story on the Storyline Online site. Click on the book's picture to go to the link.

Story Time with Mrs. Randall

Join me as I read the book King Puck. This is not a St. Patrick's day story, but it is an Irish story about a festival that takes place in some Irish villages, where the best looking goat is crowned King Puck. Click on the book's picture to go to the link.

Monday, March the 8th is International Women's Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for women's fight for equal rights. The theme for this year's day is Choose to Challenge. This is a great week to read up on some amazing women who chose to challenge the constraints that were put upon them just becasue they were women. My picks this week are for Women's Day, and for all the amazing, wonderful, strong, kind women in my life, thank-you!!!!!

EPIC

Jane Goodall has always been one of my favourite Female trailblazers. This tiny, dainty English woman left the comforts of home to do something she was passionate about and became world renown for her knowledge and study of primates. I was lucky enough to hear her in person when I was younger and will never forget her smart, eloquent and passionate talk about her life's work. Here is a biography from EPIC about Jane Goodall. It is longer than a picture book, but it will also read to you if you would like that feature. Find it on the EPIC site.

EPIC

I found this amazing book on the EPIC site, Canadian Women Now and Then!!!!! What a great book, it has a woman trailblazer from this time period and then matches her with a woman Trailblazer from the past in the same profession. So interesting!!!!

Ottawa Public Library

Here is an intersting picture book that you can download the streaming video from the OPL This is the story of a woman who dared to dive, defy, discover, and inspire. This is the story of Shark Lady

SORA

You can access SORA through the OCDSB student portal, or through the OPL. This is a great French Graphic Novel about the trials and good things about being a sister.

Story Time with Mrs. Randall

Join me as I read Mary Wears What She Wants. The true story of Mary Edwards Walker, a trailblazing 19th-century doctor who was arrested many times for wearing pants. Just click on the book's picture to hear the story.

Storyline Online

Join Kiernan Shipka as she reads this story about Jane Addams, the first American woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, who transformed a poor neighborhood in Chicago by opening up her house as a community center. Just click on the book's picture to hear the story. Just click on the book's picture to hear the story.

Here comes March!!! Will it come in like a lion and go out like a lamb, or the other way around? March is Francophonie Month, a time to celebrate the French language and the diverse cultures of 88 French speaking countries around the world. Check out the Ottawa Public library's Homepage for some great activities celebrating Francophonie Month.

EPIC

Go to the EPIC site and find this great picture book that plays off the saying "March comes in like a Lion and goes out like a Lamb? What does that mean anyway??? Read the book and find out.

EPIC

Find this bilingual book on the Epic site. This is a great book that celebrates all the wonderful things about Quebec.

Storyline Online

Here is a story I had not heard before. It is a great one to listen to before bed. Here is the link www.storylineonline.net/books/kiss-missed/

Mon Mag a Moi

I picked this French Magazine because it is about Laughter, and Montreal has a famous Comedy Festival called Juste Pour Rire. Here is the link to this magazine numerico.cforp.ca/v/234

Ottawa Public Library

France is the one country, outside of Canada, I think about first when I think French. This chapter e-book is now available to download from the Ottawa Public Library. I have read it, and really enjoyed slipping off to Paris while turning the pages of this book. Here is the book's summary, For as long as Nora can remember, Grandma Sylvia has regaled her with tales of Paris's magic, and they had always planned to travel there together. When Nora discovers that Grandma Sylvia has left behind a stack of envelopes to be opened in Paris, a map, plane tickets, and a locked box (the key to which Nora is certain is in Paris). It takes some persuasion, but soon Nora is Paris-bound with her mother and teenage brother. With the help of her new British friend Phoebe, Nora follows Grandma Sylvia's letters on a treasure hunt that takes her from John-Paul Hévin's chocolate shop to the Musée de l'Orangerie. This love letter to the City of Light will have readers believing that everything's better in Paris.

This week I will focus on standing up against Bullying. Feb. 24 is Pink Shirt Day, a day to wear a pink shirt to let others know you will not tolerate bullying. Here is the OCDSB message for this day. Pink Shirt Day is being recognized on February 24th, 2021. Join us in wearing pink and standing together against bullying in schools, in the workplace, and online.

This Pink Shirt Day, the focus is working together and treating others with dignity and respect. This year's theme is "Lift Each Other Up".

Learn more about our Bullying Prevention and Intervention resources: https://ocdsb.ca/cms/one.aspx?portalId=55478&pageId=199526

History of Pink Shirt Day

David Shepherd, Travis Price and their teenage friends organized a high-school protest to wear pink in sympathy with a Grade 9 boy who was being bullied for wearing a pink shirt. Mr. Shepherd and some others headed off to a discount store and bought 50 pink tank tops. They sent out message to schoolmates that night, and the next morning they hauled the shirts to school in a plastic bag. As they stood in the foyer handing out the shirts, the bullied boy walked in. His face spoke volumes. ‘It looked like a huge weight was lifted off his shoulders,’ Mr. Price recalled. The bullies were never heard from again.”

After David and Travis’ act of kindness in 2007, CKNW was inspired to help other youth affected by bullying, with many staff members wearing pink shirts and collecting funds to support Boys and Girls Clubs. Since then, the idea has only grown each year, with worldwide support and participation. Countries across the globe are now organizing anti-bullying fundraisers of their own, including Japan, New Zealand, China, Panama, and numerous others. In fact, last year alone, people in almost 180 countries shared their support of Pink Shirt Day through social media posts and donations.

On February 24, 2021, we encourage everyone to practice kindness and wear pink to symbolize that you do not tolerate bullying.

TumbleBooks

Access TumbleBooks for free on the Ottawa Public Library's web site. Here is a book dealing with teasing. Lawrence hates being teased about his dimples, but nothing he does seems to make any difference. Joe goes right on teasing him, and the teasing gets meaner and meaner. Finally, Lawrence notices something about his friend Stewart that may provide the tool he needs to tease-proof himself once and for all.

Storyline Online

Listen to Camryn Manheim read Enemy Pie. Before you choose to not like someone, get to know them, you may have more in common than you think. Just click on the picture to hear the story.

Ottawa Public Library

Here is a great chapter ebook from the Ottawa Public Library. Ravi has just moved to the United States from India and has always been at the top of his class; Joe has lived in the same town his whole life and has learning problems--but when their lives intersect in the first week of fifth grade they are brought together by a common enemy (the biggest bully in their class) and the need to take control of their lives.

Story Time with Mrs. Randall

One is a strong story about standing up for yourself and others who are being bullied. Just click on the book to go to the video.

This week I will focus on Canadian Authors since Feb. 17 is I Read Canadian Day. We are so lucky to have so many amazing, creative and wonderful authors and illustrators that call Canada home. I hope you discover your favourite Canadian Author this week.

Ottawa Public Library

One of my all time favourite series by a Canadian author is Neil Flambe. If you love cooking shows like Masterchef, and you love mysteries as well, you will not be able to put down this series. Download this ebook, the first in the series, from the Ottawa Public Library

Listen to comedian Ray Romano read Henry Holton Takes the Ice. Canadian Sandra Bradley, who lives in Kingston wrote this book about a boy who follows his own path to find the sport that he was meant to do. Just click on the book to go to the video.

Epic

Read this ebook from the Epic site and learn about the ecosystem that can be found on the northern shoreline in Nunavut. This book was written by Rebecca Hainnu, a Canadian Author who lives in Nunavut.

TumbleBooks

Listen to this French book on TumbleBooks through the Ottawa Public Library Site. See how the monster discovers what a book is. This story is full of very interesting monsters. Author Lili Chartrand has a wonderful imagination.

Story Time with Mrs Randall

Listen as I read the story Christopher please clean up your room. This is a very funny story from Canadian author Itah Sadu.

This week has two Holidays in it, what a fun week!!! Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year is on Feb. 12 and Valentine's Day is on Feb. 14. I hope you and your family will enjoy these two festive days this week. My picks below represent these two days.

Epic

Read this ebook from the Epic site and learn more about Chinese New Year. You can read it on your own, or have it read to you.

Epic

2021 is the Year of the Ox in the Chinese Zodiac. Here is a cute story from Epic about the trustworthy Ox. Just log into your Epic account to find this story

Epic

Log into your Epic account and find the video for Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas, a fun take on Goldilocks and the three bears with a New Year theme.

TumbleBooks

The TumbleBooks site on the Ottawa Public Library's web site has a very cute love story called Porcupining: A Prickly Love Story. Love the songs the porcupine sings, so funny.

TumbleBooks

This cute French story about a penguins love of family and friends can be found on TumbleBook from the Ottawa Public Library website. One fine morning, Pépin the penguin is fishing for shrimp on an ice floe. It is so hot that this pack ice begins to melt like an ice cube. The ice island breaks off and the little penguin is lost! But Pépin is courageous and determined. Guided by love and friendship, he will overcome any obstacles he meets in his path.

Ottawa Public Library

For the reader who enjoyed the Princess Diaries series or movies, this book is a snapshot of a Valentine's Day between the Princess and her Prince. Two ebooks are available right now from the public library.

Mrs Randall Read a Loud

Join me as I read about that little old lady who keeps swallowing things she shouldn't. Just click on the book's picture to find the link to the video.

Storyline Online

Listen to the story Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch read by Hector Elizondo. I hope you all know somebody loves you very much!!! Give a big hug to all those you love this Valentines, it might be in person, or a virtual hug.

www.storylineonline.net/books/somebody-loves-you-mr-hatch/

Welcome to February!! February is Black History Month. Black History Month is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about the history and many contributions that Black Canadians and their communities have made to this country.

Ottawa Public Library

Find these ebooks on the Ottawa Public Library. These are great non-fiction books that give us information about our past and great inspiration from Black leaders in our country.

Ottawa Public Library

This e-book brings together 52 iconic talents from the past and present and celebrates their inspirational achievements. Meet figureheads, leaders and pioneers such as Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela and Rosa Parks, as well as cultural trailblazers and sporting heroes, including Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey and Serena Williams.

Epic

Listen to this Audo book on the Epic web site. Listen to the life story of Harriet Tubman, an important person in the Underground Railway. Not for the young reader.

Epic

Read this ebook from the Epic site and learn how Frederick Douglass, a child born into slavery, learned how to read and write.

Storyline Online

To help celebrate Read a Loud day on Feb. 3, watch James Earl Jones (voice of Darth Vader) read To Be A Drum. A Black History story that is very powerful.

Epic

For all you football fans out there. Since this Sunday is Superbowl Sunday, I thought I would list a book about Black history and football. Meet Chuck Ealey, an American college all star quarterback. He was not allowed to play quarterback in the NFL at the time he left college, so he came to Canada to play with the Hamilton Tiger-cats (my hometown team). If you would liks some more information about Chuck Ealey just go to this link

https://theundefeated.com/features/pioneering-cfl-qb-chuck-ealey-doesnt-look-back/

This week I have collected an assortment of books for the list. Read on to see why I chose these books this week.

Epic

Last week a great baseball legend passed away at the age of 86, Hank Aaron. Hank played for 23 seasons in the Major leagues from 1954 to 1976 and was the first to break Babe Ruth's home run record. Hank had 755 home runs, a record that lasted for more than 30 years. He was a gifted player, but more importantly a very good, kind, man, who gave back to his community. He had to fight poverty, hate and discrimation even though he was so talented, and yet he persevered and became one of the best players of all time. Former President George Bush said " Hank never let the hatred he faced consume him. Henry Louis Aaron was a joyful man, a loving husband to Billye, and a proud father." Thank-you Hank Aaron for breaking barriers and showing the world your courage, talent and love. If you would like to read more about Hank Aaron, Epic has a biography on this amazing person. It is a longer biography and better suited towards an older reader.

Youtube

I found a great picture book about Hank Aaron online from Youtube, it's called Hank Aaron, Brave in every way. It has wonderful clips at the end of the book. Listen to the sports announcer at the game when Hank beat the home run record. It would have been amazing to have been there in the crowd.

Tumble Books

January 25th is Robert Burns Day. This is a day when people of Scottish heritage celebrate the Scottish Poet from the 1700's, Robert Burns. Almost everyone recites one of his poems on New Year's Eve, Auld Lang Syne, only we sing it. In honour of my Scottish heritage, and the Poet Robert Burns, here is a book of poetry from Tumble Books, which you can access through the Ottawa Public Library site.

TumbleBooks

Are you tired of doing school from home? Here is a French book about attending school on an island. What a different setting that would be. Think about all the different sounds, smells, and sites that would be there that are different than the ones you have at home. Would you like to go to school on an island? Find this book from TumbleBooks on the Ottawa Public Library site. Just change your language to French in the language box at the right top of the TumbleBooks page to search for French books.

Epic

January 27 is International Holocaust Rembrance Day. The Epic web site has many books and some videos about the Holocaust, a horrible time in history. I chose to highlight the book Maurice and His Dictionary because our library has its author’s, Cary Fagan, books. This is a true story about his dad and how he escaped the Holocaust. It is told in a Graphic Novel format. Read up on the Holocaust and know that through knowledge we can learn to never repeat the terrible events of the past.

There are two important events happening this week for our American neighbours. Monday January 18th is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. A day to celebrate one of the most important Civil Rights Activists from the 1960's. His message of, we all need to love and respect one another, no matter our differences, still is so important today. On Wednesday, January 20th, A new American President will be sworn in, an event that will be watched by many around the world. Here are my book recomendations this week, some influenced by these two events.

Epic

The Epic web site has many books and some videos about Martin Luther King Jr. This is a biography I recomend as it touches on so much of the history and the importance of the Civil Rights movement, and it can be read to you. It is for readers who are 8 and up.

Epic

Another picture book I really liked from Epic regarding the Civil Rights movement is "A Ride to Remember" It reminds the reader of just how unfair segregation was.

Storyline Online

This is a great book for understanding all that goes into running for President of the United States of America. Americans will get a new President this week, Joe Biden. The swearing in ceremony will happen on Wednesday. Click the book's picture to start the video.

Minimag

Finally we had a nice snowfall and it is so pretty outside. This French magazine has some great stories and features about Winter. Click the magazine cover to go to it.

TumbleBooks

Go on to TumbleBooks through the public library web site to access this very informative book about snow crystals. I learned so much about how snow forms and there is a science experiment to try as well.

From the library

Listen to me read one of my favourite books about building snow people. So many great ideas in this book

From the library

Listen to me read Be a King. How can the words and actions of Martin Luther King Jr. teach us to do better? Listen to this book for inspiration. Just click on the book's picture.

Did you know that the days durning the the year can be dedicated to interesting things or people? Everyday seems to be a day to celebrate something, somewhere around the world. This coming Thursday, January 14th is Dress Up Your Pets Day. How fun is that? Let's see if I can find some books that go with dressing up pets, or celebrating the unique pets we can have.

TumbleBooks

Go on to TumbleBooks through the public library web site to access this very cute book. A little girl adopts and cares for a duckling. What an interesting pet to have

Ottawa Public Library

I found the perfect book for National dress up your pet day!!! Download this cute chapter book from the Ottawa Public Library. Fasion and dogs, what a great mix.

Helping to care for her traveling Aunt Lulu's elderly dog, Zoey dresses the tiny canine in adorable homemade outfits for his daily walks and is swamped with requests for pet clothes that challenge Zoey's small fabric budget and limited time.

EPIC

Enjoy this French book from the EPIC site. I think cats would much prefer to wear a silly outfit than to take a bath like this cat does.

Storyline Online

Listen to Betty White read one of my favourite stories!!! Just click on the book's picture to go to Storyline Online. Harry hates baths just as much as cats. Did you know Betty White is turning 99 this week, wow, Happy Birthday Betty!!!

SORA

Listen to this audiobook from Sora about a guinea pig who thinks she is a dog. Just click on the book's picture to send you to the Guinea Dog page.

From the library

Listen to me read about Pig the Pug, a very silly dog who needs to learn to share attention. This is a good story, but the costumes they put on the dogs are what really steal the show. Just click on the picture to hear the story

From the library

Listen to me read Animals Should Definitely Not Wear Clothing, a short, but funny book. Can you think of any more animals and the reasons why they should not wear clothes? Just click on the picture to hear the story

We are Back, well sort of. A New Year and more new books for you to discover!!!! Here are my picks for this week. Can you guess the theme?

EPIC

This is a book for the older reader. Dive into the world of wild cats with this fantasy novel. Four Clans of wild cats have shared the forest according to the laws laid down by their ancestors, but the warrior code is being threatened. You can find this book on the EPIC site.

EPIC

Can a Cat and a mouse be friends? See what happens when one day, a black cat crosses paths with a white mouse. The very clever mouse convinces him not to devour her. This book can be found on EPIC for junior French readers

Storyline Online

Listen to Ty Burrell read Mice Twice on Storyline. Who is coming to dinner to eat whom? Just click on the book's picture to go to this story.

TumbleBooks

If you have a public Library Card, you can go onto the OPL's website and go to TumbleBooks. Here you will find hundreds of books online, some animated, like this one, or others for e reading. This is a story told from the perspective of a cat named Laverne and how she sees her week unfolding.

Ottawa Public Library

Download this non fiction guide to cats from the Public Library. This book introduces cat owners to feline behavior, care, communication, training, and safety. There are craft ideas, including simple instructions for building cat condos, scratching posts, and toys. Every page features at least one cat or kitten photo, sometimes with funny speech bubbles added for comic effect. Read this book and learn some valuable information about cats.

Read a loud

Listen to me read one of my favourite Cat picture books, Chester. You have to love a Canadian author!! Just click on the book's picture to go to the story.

It's the week before the December Break!!!!! December is full of holiday cheer, and you can find a book to match every celebration. I wish you all a very safe and happy break. Remember, keep reading!!! Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Winter Solstice, Happy Kwanzaa and a very Happy New Year to all!!!

Tumblebooks

Access Tumblebooks throught the Public Library and enjoy the classic story of T'was the Night before Christmas.

Epic

Christmas in Paris, what fun. This is a great beginning chapters book full of funny moments and sights and sounds of Paris. Find this book on the Epic site.

Ottawa Library

Download the ebook from the Public Library. Wolf doesn't like Christmas, but his friends try their best to change his mind.

CBC Kids News

Kwanzaa

Learn about Kwanzaa, a celebration taking place from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. Just click on the picture.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NVUAzN86Y4

December 7 - 13 is Computer Science Education week!!!

Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek) is an annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn computer science, advocate for equity in computer science education, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers, and partners to the field. With this week in mind, here are some books and sites that promote Computer Science.

Learn today, build a brighter tomorrow.The Hour of Code is a global movement reaching tens of millions of students. One-hour tutorials are available in 45+ languages for all ages.

HOUR OF CODE

The Hour of Code started as a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to demystify "code", to show that anybody can learn the basics, and to broaden participation in the field of computer science. It has since become a worldwide effort to celebrate computer science, starting with 1-hour coding activities but expanding to all sorts of community efforts. Check out the tutorials and activities. This grassroots campaign is supported by over 400 partners and 200,000 educators worldwide. Click on the Hour of Code picture to access free tutorials on coding. It is easy an a lot of fun!!!!

What Coding can do. Watch this video and become inspired to learn Code

TumbleBooks

Find this book on the TumbleBook site through the Ottawa Public Library

Having a bossy robot for a friend really isn't much fun.

Seven-year-old Ben loves pretending to be a robot, but his best friend Jessy is tired of being ordered to oil his knee joints and check his batteries. She says the robot game is boring and runs off to play with someone else. So Ben decides to build a real robot instead. He's built all kinds of things before: wind generators, solar-powered marble launchers, pinball machines. But none of his creations have ever really worked. Until now.

When his robot begins talking, Ben is thrilled. However, nothing goes quite the way he thinks it will. Ben's robot is rather difficult to get along with. He complains a lot. He's bossy. He never wants to do anything Ben suggests. Having a real robot isn't nearly as much fun as Ben thought it would be. And to make things worse, no one—not even Jessy—will believe him.

Ottawa Public Library

For Grades 5 and 6

Download this Ebook from the public Library. "Welcome to Stately Academy, a school which is just crawling with mysteries to be solved! The founder of the school left many clues and puzzles to challenge his enterprising students. Using their wits and their growing prowess with coding, Hopper and her friend Eni are going to solve the mystery of Stately Academy no matter what it takes!"

Ottawa Public Library

Download this Ebook from the Public Library

Mac Cracks the Code

To crack a secret code, Mac follows the clues to France and Japan where he must use his gaming skills and defeat his enemy, the KGB Man

Friday December 4th is National Cookie Day. In honor of this, this week's selections are all about one of my favourite things to eat, COOKIES!!!!

Epic

Have fun reading this graphic novel from the Epic website. It is full of funny mishaps and cookies.

Ottawa Public Library

Check out this e-book from the Ottawa Public Library, you can't go wrong with fairies and cookies!!

Audible for kids

Listen to the story of Ginerella, just click on the Gingerbread man picture. Gingerella is an undecorated gingerbread girl who, neglected by the royal baker, fears she will not be allowed to the Gingerbread Fair. Running away to the forest, she encounters a woodsman with a secret passion...for baking.

A mashup of Cinderella and The Gingerbread Man, this funny and fast-paced fairytale features a medieval baking contest, a ravenous queen and a ginger-bottomed prince!

Epic

Read the traditional tale of the Gingerbread Man.

Watch this cute Youtube video of the Cookie Monster doing what he does best, EAT COOKIES!!!

Just click on Cookie Monster

Snow!!!!

Since we have had a couple of days of snow this week, I thought I would pick out some books with snowy themes. Make sure you go out and enjoy the snow, but it is always nice to come back in and snuggle up with a book.

Ottawa Public Library

Check out this e-book from the Ottawa Public Library if you like Yetis, mysteries, and funny situations. This is for more advanced French readers.

www.storylineonline.net/books/brave-irene/

Storyline Online

Listen to past Vice President Al Gore read the story of Brave Irene. In olden days getting from one place to another in a blizzard was very dangerous, but through her courage, determination and luck, Irene succeeds.

EPIC

If the snow is packing snow, then you have a great opportunity to become snow architects. Here is a book on EPIC that will give you some ideas

TumbleBooks

Access TumbleBooks through the Ottawa public library and click on Lewis Cardinal's First Winter. Lewis Cardinal is confused as his woodland friends get ready for winter. Should he stay or go? Solomon explains hibernation and migration, leading Lewis to understand the process of change and friendship.

Ottawa Public Library

This ebook, available from the Public Library and for the more mature reader, will put you in the winter mood. Its imagery and setting will give you a chill, but its strong, female heroine will warm your heart. If you are a fan of dystopian fiction and like the excitement of a prison break, this is the book for you.

Friday, Nov. 20 is National Child Day

World Children's Day was first established in 1954 as Universal Children's Day and is celebrated on November 20th each year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improve children's welfare. Children's rights are front and center on this day.

Click on this link to see the 54 provisions set out by the UN on Children's Rights.

https://www.unicef.ca/sites/default/files/2016-11/crc_poster_en.pdf

childrights.mp4

Here is a read a loud for National Child Day.

For Every Child by Caroline Castle

'Whoever we are, wherever we live, these are the rights of every child under The sun, and the moon and the stars.'In November 1989 the United Nations formally adopted 54 principles which make up the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

Happy Diwali!!

This year Diwali begins on Saturday, November 14. Diwali is the Indian festival of lights, usually lasting five days and celebrated during the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika (between mid-October and mid-November). One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance" Wishing everyone a very happy Diwali!!!!

Tumble Books

Find this short video on the celebration of Diwali on Tumble Books

diwali.MOV

Binny's Diwali

Here is a read a loud. Binny's Diwali written by Thrity Umrigar and it is a Scholastic Book.

Epic Books

Find out more about Diwali in this non fiction book on Epic. Such bright and beautiful colours in this celebration.

Epic Books

Shaira doesn't know what to give her mother for Diwali. What does she do when a crow drops a pearl necklace on her door step? Read this story on Epic.

Bully Awareness and Prevention Week

From November 15 to 21 is Bully Awareness and Prevention week in Ontario. During this week, Ontario students, school staff and parents are encouraged to learn more about bullying and its effect on student learning and well-being.

TumbleBooks

Brave and smart and big at heart. Kylie Bell may be the smallest one in her first-grade class, but when it comes to standing up to mean ol' bully-boy Rusty Jacks, her courage is monumental.

Ottawa Public Library

In this story told alternately through journal entries and instructions from a bullying manual, sixth-grader Eric embarks on a quest to find the reason why he is being teased and tormented in middle school. You can download this ebook from the public library.

Ottawa Public Library

This ebook from the public library shares a story of loving who you are, respecting others and being kind to one another

EPIC Books

This is a non-fiction advice bookon EPIC. Learn how to protect yourself against bullies and how to help others against them.

EPIC Books

This is a story about Vincent Van Gogh. The Artist and Me is the fictional confession of one of van Gogh’s bullies — a young boy who adopted the popular attitude of adults around him. It’s not until the boy faces his victim alone that he realizes there is more than one way to see the world.

In this section I will post books that I think you might like. Check it out!

The Remembrance Day Ceremony has played a major role in Remembrance since 1931. Every year, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, we gather in memorial parks, community halls, workplaces, schools and homes to stand in honour of all who have fallen. Together, we observe a moment of silence to mark the sacrifice of the many who have fallen in the service of their country, and to acknowledge the courage of those who still serve.

The Act of Remembrance

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them.

poppytoremember.MOV

A Poppy is to Remember

Written by Heather Patterson

Illustrated by Ron Lightburn

With permission from Scholastic Books

SORA

It's 1942. Sam's class is knitting socks for soldiers and Sam is a terrible knitter. Keiko is a good knitter, but some kids at school don't want anything to do with her because the Japanese have bombed Pearl Harbor and her family is Japanese American. When Keiko's family is forced to move to a camp for Japanese Americans, can Sam find a way to demonstrate his friendship? Log into SORA with your student number and password through this link

https://soraapp.com/library/ocdsbca

Ottawa Public Library

This book from the Ottawa Public library is great for a younger reader. It is one of my favourite Remembrance Day picture books.

Ottawa Public Library

Check out this e-book and learn of 16 brave women who made a difference in WWI

Ottawa Public Library

This is an e-book for older students and is based on From a Name to a Number: A Holocaust Survivor's Autobiography by Alter Wiener. Gifts from the Enemy teaches children in age-appropriate language about the dangers of hatred, prejudice, and stereotyping and that there are good and bad in every group of people.

EPIC

Even dogs did their part in World Wars. This is the story of a dog who loved his soldier master very much and was quick to learn just how to help out his human friends.

The story of Canada’s code talkers | CBC KidsCode talkers were First Nations soldiers in World War II who spoke Cree. They were the Canadian military’s secret weapon.

CBC Kids

So secret was their mission, that many in Canada do not know of the amazing First Nations soldiers who helped win WWII, the Code Talkers. Click on the picture to go to the article on Code Talkers.

November 2 - 6 is Treaty Recognition Week

All students, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, benefit from learning about Treaties. This learning supports our understanding of First Nations, Métis and Inuit history, cultures, and perspectives which is essential for reconciliation to occur amongst all Canadians.

We Are All Treaty People

This book is a good starting place for understanding of the treaties, and how they are important to our Indigenous partners.

What is a Treaty?

Kids from Ontario give their definition of what a treaty is in this short video.

What is Wampum?

Agreements with the First Nations and Europeans were done in Wampum.

Alex shares his Wampum

Click on the picture to hear Alex tell us about Wampum.

The meaning of Wampum

Former Chief of Garden River First Nation and direct descendant of Chief Shingwauk speaks to Anishnaabe students at East View Elementary School in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada.

Going Back To School Narratives

Going back to school will look quite different this year. To help everyone prepare for this new adventure, the OCDSB has created a collection of dual language e-books. These highly visual e-books are written is multiple languages with English audio. Some books have French and Arabic audio as well. The OCDSB will continue to add languages, as they become available. These short stories highlight physical distancing, hand washing, sharing of personal items, mask use, etc. These texts can help navigate new topics for students and help orient them to new classroom routines, So if you are looking for "back to school" stories that contain some of the new realities we are currently facing, check out this site.

https://create.piktochart.com/output/47553375-ocdsb-social-narratives-sept-2020

Storyline Online

This funny story is about how we can respect our differences. You will laugh at all the body part dishes the zombies like to eat and get hungry looking at all the tasty veggies Mo likes to eat.

https://www.storylineonline.net/books/zombies-dont-eat-veggies/

Storyline Online

This book reminds me of Monters Inc, one of my favourite movies. I wonder what monster would be the best for me.

https://www.storylineonline.net/books/hey-thats-monster/

Epic

This is a fun story about a little zombie girl on Halloween. After the story there are recipes, crafts and a how to look like a zombie page.

Amazon Kindle

Download this free Kindle book for some scares.

Ottawa Public Library

This French e-book, for grades 6 and up is sure to give you all the spooky chills you would want.

Tumblebooks

If Halloween is not your thing, here is a book that is just plain fun. Enjoy the adventures of Mercy, the cutest pig around. You can access Tumblebooks for free from the Ottawa public library website (you just need a library card)

Ottawa Public Library

This Chapter book is for the older reader. You can't beat Goosebumps for getting you in the mood for a scary Halloween. You can download this ebook from the Ottawa public Library.

Ottawa Public Library

this book is avaiable as an ebook from the Public Library.

Storyline Online

Listen to Kristen Bell (Anna from Frozen) read the book Quackenstein. It might seem scary, but it has a happy ending

https://www.storylineonline.net/books/quackenstein/

Epic

Find this funny classic on the Epic site.

Tumble Books

Find this book at Tumble books which you can access through the Ottawa Public Library's Web Site

Since we are in the scary month, what scares you?

Whether it’s raccoons, the dark, math, or whatever lurks in the bathtub, everybody is afraid of something. Big or small, common or quirky, fears are normal — and maybe even a little less scary when brought to light (and made light of).

October is Islamic Heritage Month

Below are some great sites and books that celebrate this Month

IMG_0088.MOV

Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns - a Muslim book of Colours.

With permission from Scholastic Publishers

1001 Inventions and the Library of Secrets

Click on this link to watch a short movie about Muslim inventions during ancient times.

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/1/?tab=wm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgxwKhqkQwMvxDZlPVlTjhnmtJkDq?projector=1

Ottawa Public Library

Check out the e-book from the Public Library. A powerful, vibrantly illustrated story about the first day of school--and two sisters on one's first day of hijab--by Olympic medalist and social justice activist Ibtihaj Muhammad.

Ottawa Public Library

Check out this e-book from the Public Library.

Meet nineteen powerhouse Muslim women who rose up and made their voices heard.

Long ago, Muslim women rode into battle to defend their dreams. They opened doors to the world’s oldest library. They ruled, started movements, and spread knowledge. Today, Muslim women continue to make history. Once upon a time, they were children with dreams, just like you.

Epic

Learn about the holiday traditions and celbrations during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

Epic

Getting inspired by all the cooking that goes along with Thanksgiving weekend? Here is a fun fictional book about 4 kids who enter a Junior Chef competition. I love watching Master Chef Canada and get some great cooking tips from it. This book will also give you real life cooking tips you can use.

Epic

This is a great book, especially for this year. Before we sit down to eat a meal, there are lots of people to thank for it. From the farmers to the truckers to the grocery clerks. Thank-you to all essential workers for everything you do!!!!!

Storytime Online

Here is a funny Thanksgiving story from Storytime Online.

https://www.storylineonline.net/books/turkey-trouble/

Tumble Books

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

It seems Mr. Rabbit is in a bit of a fix. After losing that race to Turtle, he's in a bit of a financial jam. So, he goes to Bear and makes a deal. The Rabbit family will plant and harvest the crops on Bear's land. Rabbit will split the crops with Bear 50/50. All Bear has to do is decide which half - tops or bottoms - he wants. Unfortunately, whether the crop is potatoes, lettuce, corn, or radishes, Bear keeps picking the "wrong half"

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Ottawa Public Library

This e-book is available through the public library. A family of 1000 kids would like a pet. How can they prove to their parents that they deserve to have their wish come true? How many animals do 1000 kids have to own for this to be fun?

September 30 is Orange Shirt Day. In support of this important day, the following are my book picks. So put on an orange shirt and read a great book to show your support on Sept. 30th

Here is a great site that explains the meaning behind Orange Shirt Day

Tumble Books

This is a book about a girl named Olemaun who travels from her Arctic home to a Residential School. Her experiences at the school are awful but her determination and strong will see her through. Based on a true story. Meet this remarkable girl who reminds us what power we hold when we can read.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Tumble Books

This is the chapter book version of When I Was Eight. A more in depth look at life at a Residential School.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Ottawa Public Library

This e-book has a format just like a diary. Read the diary of Violet Pesheens as she experiences life at a residential school.

Books From the Epic site.

You Hold Me Up

My Heart Fills With Happiness

Secret of the Dance

Hiawatha and the Peacemaker

Shin-chi's Canoe

The Raven and the Loon

Shi-shi-etko

Putuguq and Kublu and the Qalupalik

I Am Not a Number

Beneath Raven Moon

Dreamcatcher and the Seven Deceivers

Seven Sacred Teachings

I Am Raven

A Walk on the Shoreline

Sweetest Kulu

Ottawa Public Library

This is an ebook can be found at the Ottawa Public Library. As she asks her grandmother about her life, a young girl is told about life in a residential school a long time ago, where everything was taken away. When We Were Alone is a story about a difficult time in history and, ultimately, a story of empowerment and strength.

Bookflix Pick

Another one of my favourite books. I love the soundtrack that they put with this story. https://bookflix.digital.scholastic.com/pair/detail/bk0105pr/story?authCtx=U.624837542

Storyline Online

I giggled all the way through this book. Listen to funny man Chris O'Dowd read this story

https://www.storylineonline.net/books/arnie-the-doughnut/

TumbleBooks

A very interesting book about what certain animals can do in their lifetimes

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

TumbleBooks

Happy Canada Day!!!

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Bookflix Pick

Martin's Big Words, a great book about Martin Luther King, Jr.. Find it on Bookflix under People.

Storyline Online

This is one of my favourite books. I love its message - stay true to yourself!!!!

Epic Books

This is an audio book offering from Epic books. If you would just like to sit back and listen to a good book, this is the book for you. Here is a quick summary - Candace finds a letter that contains clues to a fortune. Can she find the fortune and fulfill the letter's promise before the summer ends? This book is part historical fiction and part mystery and a great story.

Ottawa Public Library

Check out this e-book about a hilarious caper of a dad and son.

Storyline Online

Listen to Oprha Winfrey read a great story that makes me want to go out and Hula-hoop. What a fun activity that would be on a beautiful summer day. https://www.storylineonline.net/books/hula-hoopin-queen/

TumbleBooks

Here is a great graphic novel that combines a mystery with protest, politics and fighting for change. Good for older grades

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Ottawa Public Library

This ebook is available to borrow from the Ottawa Public Library. Join Raven on his night adventures.

TumbleBooks

This peaceful book is full of whale facts.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

TumbleBooks

June is National Indigenous History Month. Here is the story of Margaret who has just returned home from being at a residential school. Read about how she feels and how she tries to regain her heritage.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

TumbleBooks

See what happens when two artists don't see eye to eye.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Storyline Online

This is a good story about how to handle relationships and conflict.

https://www.storylineonline.net/books/enemy-pie/

Boukili

Écolo-Fille sauve la forêt

Here is a French book about how a girl recycles to make the forest safe for the animals who live there.

Ottawa Public Library

You can download this e-book from the OPL website. Here is a short summary of this book - After his big spring break trip gets cancelled, 11-year-old Scoob heads out on an unplanned road trip with his grandma. The unconventional road-trip story takes readers through American race relations of the past (particularly the segregation history of the South) and present. Real historical elements - like the Green Book, which was the subject and title of the recent Oscar-winning film - are woven in, making this an educational and powerful read.

Storyline Online

Here is a great story about telling the truth. Rami Malek reads one of his favourite books, The Empty Pot. Here is the link

https://www.storylineonline.net/books/the-empty-pot/

BookFlix

Here is a great 2 book collection from BookFlix about the solar system. Since there is going to be a space launch this week, I thought this would be a good choice to commemorate the launch. https://bookflix.digital.scholastic.com/category/pairs/node-33979?authCtx=U.624837542

TumbleBooks

Here is another book for "space" week. Here is a summary of this book. This picture book was published to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 8 mission, telling the story behind the photograph, both inside the spaceship and back on Earth. Text includes dialogue pulled from NASA’s Apollo 8 transcript, drawing readers into the iconic moment Earth was photographed from space. An author’s note at the end explains more about the photograph, the Apollo 8 mission, and how Earthrise went on to inspire Earth Day.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Ottawa Public Library

Here is a great Ebook to download from the public Library. I love the name FrouFrou for the poodle.

Ottawa Public Library

This is such a good ebook chapter book!!! I learned so much about life in London during Victorian times. Read this story about a young chimney sweep who tries to survive her dangerous life and befriends a Golem. It is available to download now from the Public Library.

Tumblebooks

This is a story I had not read before. It is a mix of Fairytale and science. It is a bit longer of a story, but interesting.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

TumbleBooks

Here is one of my favourite book Characters, Geronimo Stilton. This Graphic Novel has this adventurous mouse going to the moon.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Storyline Online

This is a great book about a girl who fights hard for her dream of playing baseball. Taking place in the past, when girls were not encouraged to play sports, the hero of this story never gave up.

https://www.storylineonline.net/books/catching-the-moon-the-story-of-a-young-girls-baseball-dream/

Ottawa Public Libarary

This E-book is available now to borrow. How will little Wolf stop Big Red Riding Hood from bullying him?

Strega Nona on Storytime

This is an Italian folklore story that made me hungry for pasta. It reminds me of the story The Sorcerer's Apprentice.

Here is the link https://www.storylineonline.net/books/strega-nona/

Les vrais trésors

Found on Boukili.

See if you can read a level 4 French book

The Gallery

t's 1929, and twelve-year-old Martha has no choice but to work as a maid in the New York City mansion of the wealthy Sewell family. But, despite the Gatsby-like parties and trimmings of success, she suspects something might be deeply wrong in the household—specifically with Rose Sewell, the formerly vivacious lady of the house who now refuses to leave her room. The other servants say Rose is crazy, but scrappy, strong-willed Martha thinks there’s more to the story—and that the paintings in the Sewell’s gallery contain a hidden message detailing the truth. But in a house filled with secrets, nothing is quite what it seems, and no one is who they say. Can Martha follow the clues, decipher the code, and solve the mystery of what’s really going on with Rose Sewell?

This book is available now as an Ebook from the Ottawa Public Library

Free book on Kindle

This is a cute book for grades 3 to 4. It follows the adventures of Zelda the pug and is told through her perspective. It gives you a look into the everyday life of a dog. Every chapter is a different story, so this is a great read if you just want to read one story a day.

Chicken, Pig, Cow

My boys used to have a stacking toy just like Chicken, Pig and Cow, and our dog loved to play with them. This is a cute story about working together and making a new friend.

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

Kids who Rule

Ever wonder what it would be like to rule a country while you are still a kid? This book, (for grades 5 and 6), gives you a peek into the lives of 5 kid rulers in history. A very interesting read from Tumblebooks

(You can access Tumble books through the Ottawa Public Library's web site if you have a library card)

The Rainbow Fish

A classic book about sharing. A wonderful reading found on Storyline Online. Click here for this book

ttps://www.storylineonline.net/books/the-rainbow-fish/

Ms. Bixby's Last Day

Topher, Brand, and Steve know their teacher is special better than anyone. And so when Ms. Bixby unexpectedly announces that she won’t be able to finish the school year, they come up with a risky plan—more of a quest, really—to give Ms. Bixby the last day she deserves. Through the three very different stories they tell, we begin to understand what Ms. Bixby means to each of them—and what the three of them mean to each other. A funny, heartwarming, and heartbreaking contemporary story about three boys, one teacher, and a day none of them will ever forget. A great book for grades 5 and 6.

This book is available as an e-book through the Ottawa Public Library

100+ Knock Knock Jokes

If you like knock, knock jokes, this book is for you. It is a free book for your Kindle reader or Kindle APP.

Click on this link to see the 54 provisions set out by the UN on Children's Rights.

https://www.unicef.ca/sites/default/files/2016-11/crc_poster_en.pdf

Storyline Online

Listen to Molly Ephraim read Hunakkah in Alaska on Storyline Online. Just click on the book to take you to the story. Alaska is an intersting place to live in the winter, I would love to see the Northern Lights.

EPIC

Find this book about Passover on the Epic site. You can read it yourself, or have it read to you.

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Berrigan Virtual Library

Welcome to Berrigan E.S. Virtual Library's Google Site

Just remember - "Reading gives us someplace to go when you have to stay where you are"

Mrs. Randall's new favourite picks

In this section I will post books that I think you might like. Check it out!

Ottawa Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

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Storyline Online

Ottawa Public Library

May is here!!! Trees are starting to bud and bloom, tulips are coming out and the birds are back, such a lovely time of year!! May is Asian and Jewish Heritage month. Here are some book picks that highlight these amazing cultures.

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Ottawa Public Library

SORA

April is here!!! A step closer to warmer weather and longer days. This year Ramadan falls in April from April 2, to May 2. April is also Autism awareness month with April 2nd World Autism Awareness Day. Here are some books that help celebrate all that is going on in April.

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Time for the March Break!!! This week is a great time to dive into a chapter book or an activity book. Here are my picks for the week. I hope everyone has a wonderful, relaxing break!!

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Ottawa Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

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It's the last full week of February! Since Wed. is Pink Shirt Day, lets read books this week on Kindness.

Ottawa Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

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Ottawa Public Library

It's February!!!!!! February is full of special days and Holidays. The whole month is dedicated to Black History too. So busy for such a short Month.

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A lush and lyrical biography of Harriet Tubman, written in verse and illustrated by an award-winning artist. Learn more about this amazing, strong woman who helped hundreds of slaves escape to Canada on the Underground Railway.

Kayak Magazine

Ottawa Public Library

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Snow Day!!!!!! I always love snow days, until it is time to clear the snow. I do love how peaceful it is outside while the snow is falling, it also is so very pretty. We will see you back at school tomorrow, enjoy the year's first real snow day.

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Storyline Online

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Storyline Online

Ottawa Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

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Ottawa Public Library

EPIC

Storyline Online

Ottawa Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

Happy Hanukkah!! Here are some great Hanukkah books.

Ottawa Public Library

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Storyline Online

Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week is Nov. 21 to 27. Here are some great books that support this week.

Ottawa Public Library

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Storyline Online

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Halloween Picks!!!

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Ottawa Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

October is Islamic Heritage Month

Below are some great sites and books that celebrate this Month

1001 Inventions and the Library of Secrets

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Ottawa Public Library

Ottawa Public Library

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Ottawa Public Library

Welcome back to the new school year!!! Until I post new recommendations, enjoy going through past posts.