Ho’onani:
Hula Warrior
By Heather Gale
Illustrated by Mika Song
ISBN 9780735264496 | Tundra Books
40 Pages | Ages 4-8 | Hardcover
Ho’onani feels in-between. She doesn’t see herself as wahine (girl) OR kane (boy). She’s happy to be in the middle. But not everyone sees it that way. When Ho’onani finds out that there will be a school performance of a traditional kane hula chant, she wants to be part of it. But can a girl really lead the all-male troupe? Ho’onani has to try . . . Based on a true story, Ho’onani: Hula Warrior is a celebration of Hawaiian culture and an empowering story of a girl who learns to lead and learns to accept who she really is–and in doing so, gains the respect of all those around her. Ho’onani’s story first appeared in the documentary A Place in the Middle by filmmakers Dean Hamer and Joe Wilson.
Sergeant Billy:
The True Story of the Goat Who Went to War
By Mireille Messier
Illustrated by Kass Reich
ISBN 9780735264427 | Tundra Books
40 Pages | Ages 4-8 | Hardcover
During World War I, a goat named Billy was adopted by a platoon of soldiers and made his way across the ocean to be part of the war effort. This charming true story follows Sergeant Billy from his small prairie town to the trenches of World War I and back, through harrowing moments, sad moments, moments of camaraderie and moments of celebration. This unforgettable goat and the platoon that loved him will capture your heart!
It Began with a Page:
How Gyo Fujikawa Drew the Way
by Kyo Maclear
Illustrated by Julie Morstad
ISBN 9781101918593 | Tundra Books
48 Pages | Ages 5-9 | Hardcover
Growing up quiet and lonely at the beginning of the twentieth century, Gyo learned from her relatives the ways in which both women and Japanese people lacked opportunity. Her teachers and family believed in her and sent her to art school and later Japan, where her talent flourished. But while Gyo’s career grew and led her to work for Walt Disney Studios, World War II began, and with it, her family’s internment. But Gyo never stopped fighting — for herself, her vision, her family and her readers — and later wrote and illustrated the first children’s book to feature children of different races interacting together. This luminous new book beautifully and openly touches on Gyo’s difficult experiences and growth. Through Julie Morstad’s exquisite illustrations, alternating between striking black-and-white linework and lush colour, and Kyo Maclear’s artful and accessible writing, the story of this cherished figure is told at last.
Encounter
By Brittany Luby
Illustrated by Michaela Goade
ISBN 9780735265813 | Tundra Books
40 Pages | Ages 3-7 | Hardcover
Based on an actual journal entry by French explorer Jacques Cartier from his first expedition to North America in July 1534, this story imagines the first encounter between a European sailor and a Stadaconan fisher. As the two navigate their differences (language, dress, food) with curiosity, the natural world around them notes their similarities. The seagull observes their like shadows, the mosquito notes their equally appealing blood, the mouse enjoys the crumbs both people leave behind. This story explores how encounters can create community and celebrates varying perspectives and the natural world. It is at once specific and universal. It’s a story based on a primary document and historical research, but it is in equal measure beautifully imagined. It makes room for us to recognize our differences while celebrating our shared humanity. Debut author Brittany Luby’s background in social justice and history brings a breathtaking depth of insight and understanding to this story and Michaela Goade’s expressive art brings equal life to the creatures and landscapes. An author’s note outlines the historical context as well as situates the story in the present day.
Based on a True Story Contest for Kids
We’re holding a non-fiction writing contest for kids ages 8−12. Non-fiction stories must be in English and between 800−2,000 words in length and contain at least one historical/current public figure (athlete, scientist, artist, writer, politician, etc.). Kids are encouraged to write about a moment in the public figure’s childhood. They will be judged on originality and readability by an expert panel, including Encounter author Brittany Luby and Sergeant Billy author Mireille Messier, as well as an editor and a marketing professional from Tundra Books.
The winning story will be posted on the Talking with Tundra blog on November 12th, 2019. The winner will also receive a signed copy of Sergeant Billy, Encounter and $50 worth of PRH Canada Young Readers books.
The Contest begins at 12:01 AM (Eastern Time) on August 12, 2019, and ends at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time) on October 12, 2019.
To enter, please see full rules here.
Alma and the Beast
Your First Day of Circus School 
