Sample Downloads

Grade 4

19 Things: A Book of Lists for Me 
Alison Acheson

A child develops mindfulness by creating a variety of lists about favourite and non-favourite things. Lists include "Things I Can't Control" and "What I Am Thankful For."
(Non-fiction-Report)

Mental Health Focus

  • Connecting Emotions to Actions
  • Friendship
  • Risk-Taking

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Grade 5

Welcome to the Circle 
Larry Loyie and Constance Brissenden

For many Indigenous peoples, the circle is an important symbol, signifying the connection of all things. Within the circle, within our communities, we feel connected to others, and we know we have somewhere to turn when we need help.
(Non-fiction-Information; Indigenous)

Mental Health Focus

  • Mindful Listening/Self-Regulation
  • Indigenous Knowledge and Connections
  • Celebrating Community

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Grade 6

Art Works 
Kevin Sylvester and Laura Carlin

Interviews of Canadian figures in the arts, outlining how they use various media to find self-expression and balance in their lives
(Non-fiction-Interviews)

Mental Health Focus

  • Inspiration and Positive Role Models
  • Confidence and Perseverance
  • Defying Labels
  • Creative Expression

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Grade 7

Always Even 
Don Aker

Teri is exhibiting symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Her father, who also has OCD, lets her know that her symptoms can be managed with professional help.
(Realistic Fiction)

Mental Health Focus

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
  • Dealing with Challenging Situations
  • The Stigma of Mental Illness

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Grade 8

Red Carnation 
Alicia Raimundo with Deborah Ellis

Alicia Raimundo is a mental health advocate, working mainly with young people. This story traces her experiences in a psychiatric ward after a suicide attempt as she recovers physically and emotionally.
(Non-fiction-Memoir)

Mental Health Focus

  • Reducing Stigma
  • Building Resiliency and Moving Forward
  • Writing to Understand Your Thoughts and Feelings

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