The best part of being a children’s book author, for me -- besides making children laugh and reminding them about the beauty of life -- is getting to know the work of other children's book creators.

I love children’s books. I believe that one of the reasons we buy children’s books as gifts is to pass on to others the values and ideas conveyed in the stories we adore. The children's books we gift or share carry with them the wish that those who read them may feel exactly what we felt when we discovered those stories for the very first time.

Here are my top favourite children’s books, the ones I'll always believe in and want to share with others, regardless of their age.

Shi-shi-etko
by Nicola Campbell, illustrated by Kim La Fave
(Groundwood Books, 2005).

The book deals with young Shi-shi-etko as she prepares to go to residential school. Before the cattle truck comes to pick up the children, she takes the time to remember her heartland and the seasons she’ll one day return to.

Secret of the Dance
by Andrea Spalding and Alfred Scow, illustrated by Darlene Gait
(Orca Book Publishers, 2009).

This is a historical account of Elder Alfred Scow’s memory of the banning of the traditional Potlach dance and how his family and relations defied the government in 1935.  I like this book because it speaks to times we all have to defy the government to stand up for what we believe, for what we know to be true and important for all future generations.

This Land is My Land
by George Littlechild
(Children's Book Press, 1997)

George Littlechild uses this children’s book as a testimony to showcase the history and dignity of Aboriginal people in Canada with pride and beauty.

The Moccasins
by Earl Einarson, illustrated by Julie Flett
(Theytus Books, 2004).

A wonderful book about the love of a foster mother for her child, The Moccasins conveys the idea that, by honouring a child’s heritage, you empower them for the rest of their lives.

Mwakwa: Talks to the Loon: A Cree Story for Children
by Dale Auger
(Heritage House, 2006).

This gorgeous story, written and illustrated by the late and great Dale Auger, speaks of the importance of not taking your gifts for granted.  It is a modern-day fairytale and teaching story, and a timeless book.

Li Minoush
by Bonnie Murray, illustrated by Sheldon Dawson and translated by Rita Flamand
(Michif Children's series, Pemmican Books, 2001).

This is the story of a young boy who asks his mother for a pet kitten. Li Minoush (which means "cat" in Michif) was the first book to be published in English with a Michif translation. In addition to being a lovely story, it provides readers with the experience of seeing a traditionally spoken-only language in print.

The Blue Roses
by Linda Boyden, illustrated by Amy Cordova
(Lee & Low Books, 2002).

This book beautifully explains the cycle of life. After the author's grandfather passes away, she honors his life by celebrating the return of the roses he loved so much.

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I have come to discover this about stories, whether they're written or told: that we can keep the spirit of a story alive each time we read, remember or share it. Now how gorgeous is that?

Posted April 2010