Winter Reading 2022: Primary book recommendations for winter break!

It’s winter break, and what better way to relax and pass the time than to get in some fun reading over the holidays!

We’re kicking off our Winter Reading series with several recommendations from Georges Vanier Elementary teacher-librarian Donna Chua for kindergarten to Grade 3-level readers –  with each highlighting a timely occasion! Here’s what’s on her list for younger students this winter break:

An Inuksuk Means Welcome by Mary Wallace

This a beautiful picture book which showcases life in the Arctic. It explores every letter of the word “inuksuk” which can also mean “welcome.” See if you can spot different types of inuksuit throughout the book.

Latkes, Latkes, Good to Eat: A Chanukah Story by Naomi Howland

This is a heartwarming story of how a little girl named Sadie was given a magical frying pan on the first night of Chanukah as a reward for a good deed. Join Sadie and her four little brothers in celebrating Chanukah and see how this magical pan was able to provide the whole village with delicious latke.

Mouse Celebrates the Winter Solstice by Terri Mack

The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year. It also marks the start of winter. For many Indigenous Peoples, this is a time of sharing and celebration with loved ones during the cold winter months. See how Mouse and his friends gather together to honour their Elders’ wisdom.

Tough Cookie: A Christmas Story by Edward Hemingway

Cookie always thought of himself as a sweet cookie, however he finds out that he doesn’t taste as sweet as he thought. With the help of an unexpected friend, he finds out what type of cookie he is and where he truly belongs.

A New Year’s Reunion by Yu Li-Qiong and Zhu Cheng-Liang

Holidays are made special because they bring families together. In this story, Maomao is excited for her father to come home and celebrate the lunar new year together. This story shares some customs and traditions that Chinese families observe over the holiday.

There are lots of great books to choose from for primary readers this holiday season! Stay tuned for recommendations for intermediate and secondary students in our Winter Reading series!