A collection of short stories in which Canadian young people interact with the eccentric and vivid figures of their communities, schools, and families.
Fiction
Fiction genre
The Roses in My Carpets
When a young boy and his mother and sister come to a refugee camp to escape the war in Afghanistan, he finds some comfort in the beauty of the carpets he is learning weave.
Wanda And The Wild Hair
Although Wanda loves her wild hair, all the adults in her life think it’s just horrific, so after a series of mishaps with a magpie, a cat, and a large English sheepdog, Wanda is finally convinced that something needs to be done.
Juan Tuza And The Magic Pouch
As a reward for their good deeds and hard work in the Mexican desert, Juan Tuza the prairie dog and Pepe the armadillo receive a magic bag, which produces anything they need.
Ben Over Night
Ben loves to play at his best friend’s house, but when it’s time for a sleepover all Ben can think about is going home. Ben’s brother and sister try some creative solutions to help their younger sibling get over his fear.
A Little Fear
A strong minded older woman, Mrs. Tucker moves to a small, isolated cottage in Australia where she discovers a Njimbin–a gnomelike spirit–and she must use all her cleverness to win the battle with it for her new home.
Bare Hands
A boy confronts his mother’s suitor on New Year’s Eve when the boy kills the man’s duck and, in a fit of anger, the man kills the boy’s dog.
The Costume Party
Madame Coco and her family of dogs are bored because the rain just won’t stop, but then they decide to have a costume party and become very busy with the preparations.
Very Tricky, Alfie Atkins
Alfie’s father is too busy to play, so Alfie borrows his toolbox and soon finds himself in a tight spot.
Everything On A Waffle
Eleven-year-old Primrose living in a small fishing village in British Columbia recounts her experiences and all that she learns about human nature and the unpredictability of life in the months after her parents are lost at sea.