Winter Reading 2025: 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 three recommendations from Theresa Clarke Elementary teacher-librarian Amber Young for kindergarten to Grade 3 readers! Here’s what’s on her list for younger students this winter break:
Petra by Marianna Coppo
In this wonderful book, Petra is an optimistic rock who is adaptable to constantly changing circumstances. This book is endearing as despite Petra being unable to control where she goes, from being fetched by a dog to being tossed into a bird’s nest, she still dreams of being many different things. As such, we learn about perspective, imagination and believing in yourself.
I Am NOT a Penguin: A Pangolin’s Lament by Liz Wong
In this humourous book, a pangolin tries very hard to educate the other animals about who he is, but he is mistaken for various other animals – from penguins and anteaters to skunks and snakes. Throughout this book, we discover many interesting facts about the pangolin while learning that sometimes it is challenging to make yourself be heard and seen for who you are. However, those who are interested will inevitably find their way to you.
Shi-shi-etko by Nicola I. Campbell
Winner of the Anskohk Aboriginal Children’s Book of the Year Award, Shi-shi-etko serves as a delicate way for elementary teachers to explain difficult aspects of Indigenous experience to young students. In this poignant story, Shi-shi-etko has just four days until she goes to residential school, and so she creates precious memories with her grandparents, parents and nature, focusing on the love and warmth that surrounds her. This teaches us that making memories for safekeeping is important as it helps to remind us of our past and where we come from despite being away from loved ones.
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!
