Longtime readers of Kirkus Reviews know that it’s my practice to highlight some of the best new books from Canadian presses every July 1 in observance of Canada Day. Whether it’s the government grants made available to publishers, the relatively cool weather, or simply something about life north of the 45^th parallel, I find Canadian kids’ books consistently refreshing and often bracingly daring. For those readers not lucky enough to find themselves surrounded by them, here is a sample of some great recent ones.

Treaty Words by Aimée Craft (Anishinaabe/Métis), illustrated by Luke Swinson (Anishinaabe) (Annick Press, March 9): A wee book just the right size for a pocket takes readers back, before documents drawn up between First Nations peoples and White settlers, to the original treaty “between the earth and the sky,” celebrating the respectful relationship Indigenous people share with the land.

We All Play by Julie Flett (Cree/Métis) (Greystone Kids, May 25): This deceptively simple book looks at how young animals and young humans play. Spare text in both English and Cree complements stunning, equally minimalist illustrations of tumbling, running, leaping animals and children, tiny details acting as grace notes that invite repeat reads.

The Big Bad Wolf in My House by Valérie Fontaine, illustrated by Nathalie Dion, translated by Shelley Tanaka (Groundwood, March 2): A fairy-tale metaphor carries readers into this necessarily disturbing and absolutely crucial story of domestic abuse. Like fairy tales, it has a happy ending and, on the way to it, gives needed validation to children suffering with their own wolves.

Arnold the Super-ish Hero by Heather Tekavec, illustrated by Guillaume Perreault (Kids Can, June 1): Arnold isn’t super, like the rest of his family, but it turns out that a little can-do spirit and a kind heart are all that’s necessary to accomplish super deeds. Comic book–style panels make the perfect vehicle for this sweet and funny story.

The Wind and the Trees by Todd Stewart (Owlkids, March 15): Dazzling silk-screens, a daring design choice, and a fanciful interpretation of recent research into tree communication combine to tell the story of two trees. Unvaryingly positioning his tree protagonists on either side of the gutter, Stewart uses color and atmospherics to keep the pages turning.

Outside, You Notice by Erin Aladdin, illustrated by Andrea Blinick (Pajama Press, April 13): Author and illustrator invite young readers to explore nature and observe both the creatures in it and how their bodies respond to it. A simple, sensory primary text describes an experience outside; it is complemented by scientific facts that deepen readers’ understanding and appreciation.

Kimmy and Mike by Dave Paddon, illustrated by Lily Snowden-Fine (Running the Goat, April 27): A raucous around-the-world adventure unfolds in this story of two brothers sent to bring home some fish for dinner. It partakes of the folk tradition of recitation, specific to Newfoundland and Labrador, and is the very definition of a rollicking read-aloud.

Ten Little Dumplings by Larissa Fan, illustrated by Cindy Wume (Tundra, Jan. 5): This brilliantly subtle account of a girl growing up seemingly in the shadow of 10 older brothers who are beloved by all will cause readers to redefine what counts as a feminist text. Far from wilting in the shadows, this protagonist listens, learns, and blooms.

Whittling the recent months’ output from Canada has been no easy task, and these books are just a start. Read, enjoy, and explore.

Vicky Smith is a young readers’ editor.