Toronto Public Library picks the best Canadian books to help kids get ready for reading. Borrow your copy today.

First & Best 2014

Music is for Everyone

Jill Barber & Sydney Smith

Filled with fantastic illustrations and great tempo, this ode to music brings together different styles, instruments, movements and vibes.


Sam and Dave Dig a Hole

Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen

Sam and Dave want to find something amazing during their dig but keep missing impressive jewels. Readers will love being in on the joke with plenty of visual gags.


Toronto ABC

Paul Covello

Toronto is bustling with activity in this colourful ABC book full of familiar city sights and features.

Ebook of Toronto ABC


Who's Next Door?

Mayuko Kishira & Jun Takabatake

Chicken is determined to meet his mysterious new neighbour. Underlying this cute story is a clever reminder about the importance of the written word.


I Am So Brave

Stephen Krensky & Sara Gillingham

A young boy finds excitement and fun in things he had previously feared, told through bold illustrations and simple rhyming text.


Peach Girl

Raymond Nakamura & Rebecca Bender

This delightful story follows Momoko and her new friends as they go on an adventure to seek out an ogre. A feisty heroine, Momoko shows young readers that with a little courage, anyone can make the world a better place.


Fox and Squirrel Make a Friend

Ruth Ohi

Squirrel meets Yellow Bird while frolicking high in the trees, but on the ground, Fox feels abandoned by his best friend. This simple story expresses well the need to appreciate all of our unique gifts.


Over There

Steve Pilcher

A curious shrew named Shredder leaves his safe home only to find danger. Luckily, he meets a mole who helps him return home and becomes a new friend. The beautiful illustrations wonderfully capture Shredder's experiences.


Mama's Day with Little Gray

Aimee Reid & Laura J. Bryant

Strolling through the grasslands, a young elephant imagines what life would be like if he was the parent and his mother was the calf. A gentle story that's enhanced by soft pastel artwork.

Ebook of Mama's Day with Little Gray


Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin

Chieri Uegaki & Qin Leng

Hana's memories of her grandfather playing violin motivate her to play in her own original style. The fun, unexpected ending may help build confidence in older preschoolers.