I have many fond memories of quiet nights and happy afternoons reading board books with my children. We made animal sounds, imitated cars and trucks, and laughed together over silly rhymes and favourite lines that quickly became part of our family’s reading rituals. Board books may be small, but they can create big moments of connection—and for many children, they are where a lifelong love of books begins.
In this issue of Canadian Children’s Book News, author Jennifer Maruno explores the importance of board books and highlights Canadian board books in a wide range of categories. In our Keep Your Eye On column, we introduce you to Nancy Cohen, whose playful board books for babies and toddlers are sure to elicit plenty of giggles and smiles.
Our August Bookmark list of new releases celebrates curiosity, courage, friendship, and self-discovery. These books invite young readers to embrace what makes them different, stand up for others, explore the world around them, and find their own way forward.
As always, you’ll also find reviews of 10 new books to discover and enjoy. We hope this issue inspires you to share a book, a rhyme, a laugh, or a quiet moment of reading with a young reader in your life.
Happy reading!
Shannon Barnes