Read about Indigenous Canadian author, David A. Robertson and his many books for kids, teens and adults!
Parenting Advice You Never Asked For
Some unsolicited parenting advice from me to you! Don't worry ... I've got your back!
Earth Day: Resources to Foster Environmental Literacy
Do you know how to explain climate change and its effects to your kids? Check out these resources to help them learn strategies for a more sustainable planet.
Choose To Challenge: Books About Strong Women Making A Difference
"So here I stand, one girl, among many. I speak not for myself, but so those without a voice can be heard ... We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back ... The extremists are afraid of books and pens. The power of education frightens them. They are afraid of women. The... Continue Reading →
Be My Valentine: Love, Friendship and Boundaries in Children’s Books
"This is MY hair. It's great that you love it. I love it too. But please, just look and don't touch without my permission." ~~ Aria, in Sharee Miller's Don't Touch My Hair! (A version of this article first appeared in Kingston Neighbours magazine, February, 2021.) Ah, Valentine’s Day: roses and romance, cards and candlelight,... Continue Reading →
The Importance of School Libraries
"... dozens of library impact studies since the mid-1990s have shown that effective school libraries increase student achievement in a variety of ways, such as in reading and on standardized tests ..." ~ Advocacy and the 21st Century Librarian: Challenges and Best Practices, American Library Association (ALA) Before moving to a small city in Eastern... Continue Reading →
Open Heart, Open Mind
"After all these years, I was still the kid in the closet, too frightened to cry over something I couldn't control ... In that moment, I understood that, to rescue the part of me still locked in that closet, I would have to admit my vulnerability. I would have to let my beautiful tears flow."... Continue Reading →
The D*A*V*I*D Principle
"A great book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading." William Styron "Books are a uniquely portable magic." Stephen King Late last year, I was asked to be the Interim Facilitator for my book club. I love my book club, so I immediately said... Continue Reading →
Let’s Talk About Mental Health: Resources for Youth
70% of mental health problems have their onset during childhood or adolescence.Young people aged 15 to 24 are more likely to experience mental illness and/or substance use disorders than any other age group.In 2016, suicide accounted for 19% of deaths among youth aged 10 to 14, 29% among youth aged 15 to 19, and 23%... Continue Reading →
Lisa’s Book List #5: Books that Celebrate the Spirit of Giving
"There he searched out the poor and down-hearted, never happier than when he was giving something away." -- Jeff Brumbeau, The Quiltmaker's Gift (A version of this article first appeared in Kingston Neighbours magazine, December, 2020.) December means celebration! Many religions and cultures have holidays this month: Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa. And while traditions differ, these... Continue Reading →
Lisa's Book Corner 