Here’s a quick look at some of our more well-known home-grown Canadian children’s book authors and illustrators.
Robert Munsch
Undeniably our most beloved writer, Robert Munsch books are a staple for every Canadian kid. Not only do titles like “Love You Forever” and “The Sandcastle Contest” evoke memories of curling up with a teacher or parent as a child, but students and schools often get involved in reading contests where Munsch himself will go and visit a winning classroom. He’s also always on tour, making stops across North America and inspiring children to pick up books and read more. His most recent book, “Give Me Back My Dad!” came out in May 2011. Munsch is also a member of the Order of Canada and he has a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame.
Marie-Louise Gay
A talented author and illustrator with sweet characters and beautiful books, Marie-Louise Gay is best known for her two main series, “Stella” and “Sam.” She has also contributed to more than 30 titles. Gay’s extensive work as one of the most successful Canadian children’s book authors has earned her a number of distinguished accolades like the Governor General’s Award for English Language Children’s Illustration, The Amelia Frances Howard-Gibbon Illustrator’s Award and The Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Award.
Kenneth Oppel
A British Columbia native whose most notable titles include the Matt Cruse “Airborn” series, Oppel has been honoured with a number of awards including the Governor General’s Literary Award. He penned his first book when he was still attending high school in Victoria, and since then he has put his name on more than 20 covers that appeal to a wide audience range, from children’s fiction to young adult fiction (and even a number of books for grown-ups too).
Duncan Thornton
A young fiction writer with a penchant for intriguing futuristic sci-fiction, Duncan Thornton’s first novel “Kalifax” was released in 1999 and was then nominated for the 2000 Governor General’s Award for Children’s Literature. Following that he released a wide range of titles, with “Shadow-Town” being the most recent to come out – it hit stands in 2008 and will be a part of a four-book series entitled “The Vastlands.”
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