The Spirit of Canada: Canada’s Story in Legends, Fiction, Poems and Songs

As vast in scope as Canada itself, The Spirit of Canada is a book that children and their families will treasure for years to come. From Bonavista to Vancouver Island, from Native creation myths to history being made in our own time, this landmark collection celebrates our country and its indomitable spirit.

More than 100 selections are brought together with some 300 original illustrations by 10 of Canada’s most accomplished children’s artists. The collection includes old favourites such as Jack Was Every Inch a Sailor and The Cremation of Sam McGee, new classics like Gordon Lightfoot’s Canadian Railroad Trilogy and Roch Carrier’s The Hockey Sweater, and lesser-known gems such as Nancy Prasad’s You Have Two Voice and Duke Redbird’s I am a Canadian. The mood ranges from the poignant memories of Canada at war to the fun of tall tales and the shivery thrills of traditional ghost stories. The Spirit of Canada also balances the contributions of many authors, from Native Canadians through the first European immigrants to new arrivals from every corner of the globe.

Each selection is enhanced by a cultural or historical background note. Suggestions for further reading, capsule biographies of the contributors, and a useful index round off this essential collection.

Thoroughly researched and documented, The Spirit of Canada paints a grand picture of our country, and offers every Canadian family a part of it. Here is the story that belongs to all of us; here is everything that makes us Canadian.

Canadian Children’s Book Centre, Our Choice Selection