Where Oliver Fits
Where Oliver Fits | by Cale Atkinson
Ideal for: World Kindness Day November 13, No Name Calling Week January, Pink Shirt Day February 23, French Language Day March 20, Belonging–National Day to End Bullying May 15.
Biblical and Theological Themes: belonging, welcome, integrity, identity, authenticity, being yourself. Although most of these themes sound very contemporary, as does the message about being yourself and eventually finding your people, there is potential to make connections with the identity formed through baptism, and the broader biblical idea that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” by a God who knows us and loves us as we are.
Trampoline Boy
Trampoline Boy | by Nan Forler | illustrated by Marion Arbona
Ideal for:National Autism Awareness Month October, World Autism Day April 2.
Biblical and Theological Themes: God’s care for our bodies, seeing and perceiving, benefits of different perspectives, not judging others, the fruits of the Spirit
When I Get Older: The Story Behind Wavin’ Flag
When I Get Older: The Story Behind Wavin’ Flag | by K'NAAN | illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez
Ideal for: International Day of Peace Sept. 21, International Day of Music October 1, World Kindness Day November 13, Human Rights Day Dec. 10, International Migrants Day December 18, Canadian Multiculturalism Day June 27.
Biblical and Theological Themes: Home and belonging, leaving home and family, being a refugee, welcoming the stranger, war and its traumatic effects, the strengthening and healing power of music, self-control, unity, freedom, and safety
A Sky-Blue Bench
A Sky-Blue Bench | by Bahram Rahman | illustrated by Peggy Collins
Ideal for: International Day of Peace Sept. 21, Human Rights Day Dec.10, International Day of Education Jan. 24, International Women's Day and United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace March 8, World Refugee Day June 20, Canadian Multiculturalism Day June 27.
Biblical and Theological Themes: Courage, persistence, kindness, community, healing, rebuilding, hope
Out Into the Big, Wide Lake
Out Into the Big, Wide Lake | by Paul Harbridge | illustrated by Josée Bisaillon
Ideal for: World Down Syndrome Day March 21,and National Down Syndrome Week
Biblical and Theological Themes: community, kindness, courage, feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, loving our neighbours, forgiveness and reconciliation