Focus on childrens’ gifts offers inspiration

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This article was published 17/02/2024 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Children sometimes feel they have to wait until they grow up to make a difference in their world, but in We Need Everyone (Highwater Press, 40 pages, $22, hardcover), Winnipeg author Michael Redhead Champagne shows that everyone has a gift and “a gift is for sharing with others.”

He asks: Is your gift being a good friend? Painting a picture? Telling a story? Giving a hug? This well-known inspirational speaker and community activist will encourage any young reader with his enthusiasm and optimism.

No matter your age or sex, your colour or language, Champagne says, you can make a difference. He dedicates his book to “the North End of Winnipeg, who raised me to be the person I am today.” (He launches the book today at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Manitoba Museum at 190 Rupert Ave.).

Lively and colorful pictures by Viet-Canadian multimedia artist Tiff Bartel (also a Winnipegger) add to the book’s appeal. For ages 6-8.

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A truly inspired graphic novel for mid-level readers, U.K. writer Kengo Kurimoto’s Wildful (Groundwood, 216 pages, $23, hardcover) depicts all that can be found in a patch of wilderness, even if it is in the middle of a city.

When Poppy’s grandma dies, her mother becomes depressed and won’t leave the house, so it’s up to Poppy to walk their dog, Pepper.

One day Pepper gets loose and leads Poppy into a wild area beyond the fence. She meets Rob, a boy who shows her how many wonderful sights and sounds can be found in this “secret garden.” As she comes to appreciate this magic place, Poppy is able to lure her mother out of doors.

Of special note is the artwork by Kurimoto in this graphic novel, which is detailed, expressive and delicate. With the future of a local urban forest in Winnipeg under debate, this is a topical book that will resonate with any nature lovers in your family or friends. For ages 9-12.

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Tabletop gamers, especially fans of Dungeons and Dragons, will appreciate Who We Are In Real Life (Groundwood, 288 pages, $18, paperback) by Saskatchewan author Victoria Koops.

When high school student Darcy has to move to a small town with her two moms, she feels lost, leaving behind both her boyfriend and her gaming community. Fitting in becomes easier when she meets Art and finds out he’s also into D&D, but is the town ready to accept her family’s more liberal lifestyle?

A mixture of teenaged romance and fantasy adventure, with a nod to social issues on the side, this is Koops’ debut novel. A practising counsellor, she lives on Treaty 4 territory with her family. For readers 12 and up.

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In a beautiful tribute to nature, This Is a Tiny Fragile Snake (Groundwood, 36 pages, $22, hardcover) by Guelph author Nicholas Ruddock introduces children to 15 different creatures they might meet every day, and which might need to help. From a tiny garter snake underfoot to a hummingbird whose beak is caught in a screen, Ruddock pens a poem for each. Among the animals and birds featured are ants, loons, caterpillars and even hornets, though some might feel unlikely to assist that last category.

Delightfully illustrated with cut-paper collage artwork by Toronto artist Ashley Barron, this is a picture book that could be pored over many times. While the poems do not always scan, they are easily read and demonstrate sometimes-amusing situations (a chipmunk in a drain, a squirrel who refuses to leave).

Ruddock has written a number of adult novels and short stories, including Last Hummingbird West of Chile. Suited to ages 4-7.

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Helen Norrie is a local writer who enjoys reading children’s books — especially when they come with beautiful illustrations.