Orca Picture Books for Children by Melanie Métivier (Part One)

We Wear Masks is a new favourite book in our house these days. Using short rhymes, Marla Lesage offers examples of all different kinds of people who wear masks and helps to normalize the idea for young children. A few examples include things like divers, pilots, superhero’s and welders, which shows even the youngest children not to be afraid of a mask. The beautiful illustrations on each page correlate with the examples in the story and help the youngest of readers to see the different types of masks. The book concludes by saying that wearing a mask means caring for others, which teaches respect and kindness and is highly relevant in the world today. We Wear Masks is a must-have title for anyone raising toddlers, especially during the current global pandemic.

The stories of Little Owl, Little Squirrel, Little Duck and Little Fox by Britta Teckentrup all come together to create a lovely, all-natural board book collection. Each story is unique and teaches even the youngest of listeners about the different animals and the adventures they go on. The overall natural appearance and eco-friendly construction of the books are very pleasing to the eye, making them a top choice for young children; in a stack of books, they stand out. On the natural material, the pictures are still very vibrant and eye-catching. The four books make a wonderful and unique collection for children and are perfect for bedtime reading.

When We Are Kind by Monique Gray Smith is a short children’s book providing many examples of what it means to be kind, and how being kind makes someone feel. There are instances of being kind to others by doing things like sharing and helping, as well as ideas of how one can be kind to themselves or the earth. The book helps to teach children at a young age that kindness is not only an action towards others, but important in self-care, and encourages the idea that being kind results in a positive feeling. When We are Kind is an encouraging, uplifting book for the youngest readers.

About the Publisher

Orca Book Publishers is located in Victoria, British Columbia and takes pride in publishing over 80 children’s book titles per year. Established in 1984, Orca aims to provide young Canadian readers a variety of genres, with a special focus on those that promote diversity and inclusivity. They also offer eco-conscious printing which includes all books being printed on paper made from responsibly sourced wood fibre.

Melanie Métivier

Children's Picture Book Reviewer

Melanie is the Children's Book reviewer at The Miramichi Reader. She is a mother to two young children Adeline (5 years) and Harlow (3 years). She has a Bachelor of Health Science from Dalhousie University and previously worked as a Radiological Technologist before deciding to pursue a career in health insurance administration. She enjoys sewing, crafting, and going on adventures with her family. Having lived in all three maritime provinces, Melanie now raises her daughters with her husband in Moncton, NB.