Are you looking for kids’ books set in Canada, its cities, cultures, history and landscapes? Whether you are a parent, a librarian, or a teacher, there are great stories to find and discover. Help young readers connect to the world around them through picture books about Canadian wildlife or engage them with Canadian middle-grade adventures. This list will help you explore Canada, one page at a time.
And, as Planet of the Books is all about connecting stories to real places on our map, don’t forget to check out our interactive Map of the Books to see exactly where these stories may unfold.
We are compiling a running list of kids’ books set in Canada that mention Canada, are set entirely in Canada, or cover Canada’s provinces. Let’s take a look at what we have found so far!
Table of Contents
Picture Books Set in Canada (Ages 2-5)
If you’re looking for kids’ books set in Canada for young children (ages 2-5), picture books could be a great choice. Here are some books we discovered that could be perfect for bedtime reading, classrooms, or simply for helping young kids learn more about Canada’s provinces and wildlife.
Goodnight, Canada by Andrea Beck
A beautiful, calming bedtime book that takes the reader from province to province, saying goodnight to each region. It’s a really soft introduction to Canada’s geography, perfect for preschoolers and early readers.
Canada in Colours by Per-Henrik Gürth
A bright and cheerful picture book celebrating Canada through its colours. See the red in maple leaves and discover the blue northern lakes. This kid’s book is simple and engaging, and acts as a wonderful introduction to Canadian imagery for toddlers and early readers.
M is for Maple: A Canadian Alphabet by Mike Ulmer
Another find for the kids’ books set in Canada is “M is for Maple: A Canadian Alphabet”. This illustrated picture book introduces kids to Canadian history, wildlife, symbols and culture through the alphabet.
Educational Kids’ Books Set in Canada for Curious Children (Ages 6-10)
Here are some educational books that could help young readers learn about Canada’s geography, history, and natural wonders.
The Kids Book of Canada by Barbara Greenwood
A wonderful introduction to Canada’s provinces, territories, wildlife, landmarks, and cultures. It’s a good resource for classrooms and perfect for kids who love facts, maps, timelines and learning about how Canadian regions differ.
Wow Canada! Exploring This Land from Coast to Coast by Vivien Bowers
This is a fun, travel/journal-style book that follows a family on a cross-country road trip. Filled with photos, interesting facts, and kid-friendly explanations of famous Canadian landmarks, this is certainly a great option for someone who is looking for kids’ books set in Canada.
Early Readers & Chapter Kids’ Books Set in Canada (Ages 6-10)
Megabat by Anna Humphrey
A funny story about a boy in Ontario who befriends a talking fruit bat (yes, that’s what it is, a talking bat). Full of charm and beautiful illustrations. Lots of great reviews from the readers. And, even better, this book has now grown into a series!
Anne of Green Gables (Junior Editions) by L.M. Montgomery
The classic story adapted for younger readers is a great choice if you’re looking for kids’ books set in Canada. Junior editions are usually shorter, illustrated, and perfect for children not quite ready for the full novel.
Middle Grade and Teenager Books Set in Canada
The Barren Grounds: The Misewa Saga, Book One by David A. Robertson
“The Barren Grounds”, inspired by Narnia, will offer readers lots of magical adventures. This is the first book in the Indigenous middle-grade fantasy. Written by David A. Robertson, author of many books for young readers.
FAQ: Kids’ Books Set in Canada
What are the best children’s books set in Canada?
Usually, the top picks include “Goodnight, Canada“, “Anne of Green Gables“, or “The Barren Grounds“.
Are there kids’ books for every Canadian province?
Yes! Many picture books and chapter books take place in specific provinces. There are many books that are set, for example, in Ontario, BC, PEI or the Yukon.
Are there Indigenous kids’ books set in Canada?
Yes, some there are. There are quite a few widely read children’s books in Canada that offer stories by Indigenous authors (e.g., David A. Robertson).