9 Must-Read Classic Canadian Books for Kids

No matter how busy I get during the day I try to always make time to read a book with my kids at night. On particularly busy days, it’s practically the only solid bonding time we get together. We have seemingly endless rows of books on our shelf, but can’t seem to get enough at the same time.

If you’re looking to add to your child’s book collection, why not include some homegrown picture books in the mix? I’ve compiled a list of my favorite classic Canadian books for kids that every home in the Great White North should have on its bookshelf.

More Great Children’s Books:

Must-Read Canadian Books for Kids

The Hockey Sweater by Roch Carrier

Is there anything more Canadian than hockey? I don’t think so! This classic book, originally written in French and later translated into English, captures a young boy’s love of hockey and his favourite hockey player Maurice Richard. Any hockey-loving boy or girl will relate to the story as it outlines the devotion young children have to “their team” and the hours of fun that outdoor hockey brings.

Buy it: CDN$ 9.91, Amazon
Scaredy Squirrel by Melanie Watt

This award-winning children’s book series is a favourite of my youngest son. Scaredy Squirrel is scared of EVERYTHING, including “unicorns, tarantulas, green Martians, killer bees, and shark!” Scaredy is a great example for any nervous little one, as he attempts new adventurous with exciting and very funny outcomes!

Buy it: CDN$ 8.06, Amazon
Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

I dare you to read this book without crying. Robert Munsch is a much-loved Canadian author, but Love You Forever is his biggest tearjerker. This story is about the enduring love between a mom and her son and will be an instant classic in your family.

Buy it: CDN$ 5.35, Amazon
Jillian Jiggs by Phoebe Gillman

Every kid and parent can relate to "Jillian, Jillian Jillian Jiggs!" a girl whose room looks like it "has been lived in by pigs." This fun book is a surefire hit with young kids who love to yell out “JILLIAN JIGS”! And this messy and high-energy young girl is certainly relatable for parents.

Buy it: CDN$ 6.29, Amazon
Stella Star of the Sea by Marie-Louise Gay

Another fantastic Canadian series---Stella is a story of a girl who wants to swim and be free in the sea, but her little brother is nervous. Stella is a patient and kind big sister who encourages her little brother to try new things and have fun. These books are a lovely way to show your kids about the beauty of sibling friendships.

Buy it: CDN$ 7.55
The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch

We could probably list every single Robert Munsch book in this list, but I would remiss to not include a classic: The Paper Bag Princess. A girl-power tale of adventure and wit, this book captures the tenacity and smarts of a young princess who is captured by a fire-breathing dragon. The lessons are endless and the narrative will capture your child’s imagination.

Buy it: CDN$ 6.26, Amazon
Chicken, Pig, Cow by Ruth Ohi

Life is awesome for the three central characters (Chicken, Pig, Cow) except for one big, slobbery dog. The repetition and easy-to-read words make this a great picture book for early or emerging readers, and the fun pictures will draw non-readers' attention.

Buy it: CDN$ 6.59
Grumpy Bird by Jeremy Tankard

Poor grumpy bird is GRUMPY! He’s grumpy about everything, and he sure doesn’t feel like talking about it. Leave it to his sweet friends to try to find ways to cheer him up and have some fun! Even my grumpiest little one has fun with this story (and the art is fantastic!).

Buy it: CDN$ 9.49, Amazon
Alligator Pie by Dennis Lee

Introduce your children to poetry early with this classic collection. They’ll giggle along with “Wiggle to the Laundromat” and rhyme along to “Skyscraper.” You’ll find they pick up on the rhythm of the poetry quickly and ask for their favourites over and over again.

Buy it: CDN$ 15.15, Amazon