Atlantic Books

Atlantic Books

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Running the Goat

by

Mr. Beagle Goes to Rabbittown
(Ages 3-5)
Lori Doody 
Running the Goat Books & Broadsides

When Mr. Beagle decides to set up shop in Rabbittown, business at his convenience store is not exactly brisk. The bunnies of Rabbittown, a likeable and friendly bunch generally speaking, are not entirely sure what to make of their new neighbour. 

But when mittens start mysteriously disappearing, Mr. Beagle has plenty of time on his hands and “a good nose for sniffing out trouble.” As he scours the town for clues, his investigative efforts lead to another recent newcomer, Tom Cat, who had disguised himself as a bunny in order to fit in. 

With the mystery solved, and the citizens of Rabbittown happy to help Tom Cat in his ongoing quest for mittens (for his three little kittens, of course), Mr. Beagle and the Cat clan find themselves warmly welcomed into their new home at last.

Lori Doody

Lori Doody’s latest picture-book offering provides all the warmth and whimsy that fans of her work have come to expect and cherish. The story is spare and simply told but not too subtle to convey vital messages about acceptance, being yourself and the importance of community. 

True to form, the illustrations tell their own story with bold, bright colours and delicate, dark outlines.  Each page is precise and detailed (including the delightful endpapers), featuring a flat perspective that lends itself well to the understated tone of the tale. Together, words and images radiate a cheerful energy and optimism that will delight children and adults alike in this playful, quirky tale. 

Without feeling didactic or heavy handed, the residents of Rabbittown learn a valuable lesson about inclusion, which leads to a deeply satisfying ending whereby Rabbittown had become “a neighbourhood where any bunny, dog, cat, mouse, squirrel or fox could find new friends and warm mittens.” 

Who wouldn’t want to live there?

Lisa Doucet is the co-manager of Woozles Children’s Bookstore in Halifax. She shares her passion for children’s and young-adult books as our young readers editor and book reviewer.

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Light in the Forest, written & illustrated by Holly Carr

Holly Carr’s distinctive and boldly beautiful illustrations, along with her powerful message (“Do not be afraid.  You are not alone.”) make this book timeless, a book to be savoured by readers of all ages. Lush, luminous and richly saturated with colour, Carr’s magnificent artwork accompanies the repeated refrain: “Do not be afraid/I am not afraid.” The book visually depicts the message that even in the darkest of times, we need to take a closer look and to see things differently, to see beyond the darkness. This is an important reminder for us all, especially now.

Mr. Beagle Goes to Rabbittown, written & illustrated by Lori Doody

Filled with wit and whimsy, this book is simple and understated and utterly charming. Tidy illustrations in bright colours are precise and cleverly detailed, and invite close inspection. The text is simple and spare but eloquently conveys the sense that while “every bunny knows every bunny” in Rabbittown, they may not recognize the ways in which they are not as welcoming to newcomers. It is a sweet and unassuming look at inclusivity and diversity.

Summer Feet, written by Sheree Fitch & illustrated by Carolyn Fisher

This playful, exuberant, joy-filled romp is a perfect evocation and celebration of the magic of summer! In her effervescent, lively, lilting word play, Sheree Fitch captures all the joys of the season. Readers will revel in the poetry that dances off the page and off the tongue while also delighting in the memories and images that her buoyant verses evoke.

Waiting Under Water, written by Riel Nason

A touching and tender middle grade exploration of one girl’s struggle to accept the changes that her life holds: she will be forced to leave everyone and everything she loves when her family moves to Ontario at the end of the summer. Hope is an earnest and believable character and the author deftly portrays her wide range of emotions, especially as she worries about going to a new school where no one knows her or her verbal tic. Nason also beautifully captures a spirit of place, of what makes this small New Brunswick town so special to Hope and to all who call it home. It is a gentle, introspective and moving story in which time and the tides work together to transform shards of glass into smooth and beautiful sea glass, and so too, time and trials help mold and shape one girl’s understanding of herself and those around her.

The Book of Selkie, written & illustrated by Briana Corr Scott

Filled with whimsy, this book is a loving, lilting ode to the sea and its myriad mysteries. The author/illustrator playfully introduces readers to the lore and legends surrounding these fabled creatures of the sea. The illustrations have an ethereal, atmospheric quality that captures the moodiness and unpredictability of the sea and its denizens. The Selkie blessing and paperdoll that are included at the end make this book feel like a true treasure.

You Were Never Here, written by Kathleen Peacock

A taut and carefully crafted mystery, this young adult novel masterfully blends elements of romance, family drama and self-acceptance into the plot to make this a nuanced and compelling read on numerous levels. The characters are skillfully drawn with a protagonist who is sympathetic, smart and likeable for both her strengths and vulnerabilities, and for her admirable self-awareness and openness to growth and self-discovery. The pacing is perfect and the small town setting is beautifully depicted. This is a book that satisfies as a multi-layered mystery but offers much more as well, including a sensitive exploration of family relationships and of the complexities of friendship.

I Talk Like a River, written by Jordan Scott & illustrated by Sydney Smith

Words and images in this book pack an incredibly powerful punch. The prose is elegant and spare, lyrical and lovely as the author quietly depicts one boy’s frustration and shame as words get mangled in his mouth. But even more beautiful is Jordan’s depiction of the bond between father and son, and how this father – so filled with love for his son – finds a way to help the boy see himself differently. Sydney Smith’s illustrations capture every heartwarming nuance. They are fuzzy and indistinct at times, and then also luminous and precise, sparkling and light infused, portraying the moods and mystery of the river in his own unique and inimitable and profoundly perfect way. This book is simply a gem in every possible way.


The Rise and Fall of Derek Cowell, written by Valerie Sherrard

A fun and witty middle-grade novel, this book features a thoroughly delightful protagonist and very astutely depicts middle-school life (and its attendant angst). Derek Cowell is not only a realistic and charming character but his relationships with his best friend, his parents and even his sisters are humourous and heartwarming. While the author very perceptively captures the drama of finding “fame” unexpectedly and then the misery of unwanted fame (when a humiliating photo of Derek gets circulated), she also thoughtfully portrays the drama and chaos of everyday family life.

When Emily Was Small, written & illustrated by Lauren Soloy

This book is an evocative glimpse into the inner life of the young Emily Carr. The poetic language and exquisite turns of phrase beautifully depict Emily’s rapturous explorations of the natural world as she reverently, lovingly investigates all the wonders of the wild places all around her. Soloy magnificently captures so much about who and how Emily Carr was, how she perceived the world around her and her heightened awareness of nature’s gifts.  Her mixed-media illustrations are richly-textured, lush, vibrant and magnificently detailed. It is a truly beautiful celebration of a young girl whose profound connection to nature led her to become one of Canada’s most beloved artists.

Swift Fox All Along, written by Rebecca Thomas, illustrated by Maya McKibbon

Rebecca Thomas has created a poignant story of family and celebrating one’s heritage and finding oneself. She beautifully captures the warmth and the bond that this family shares but her portrayal of Swift Fox’s anxiety, her fears that she’ll never be able to find what makes her Mi’kmaq inside of her is truly heartwarming. Swift Fox is earnest and so genuine as she wrestles with her self-doubt and apprehensions and this is what will resonate for so many readers. 

Little Red Shed, written by Adam & Jennifer Young, illustrated by Adam Young

Adam Young’s bold and brightly-hued illustrations make this book a visual treasure but the poignant message about diversity and self-acceptance is both timely and timeless.  The lively, folk-art style of the artwork beautifully depicts the maritime setting and provides wonderful energy and motion.  The simple verse narrative looks at the pain of being rejected for being different, the difference that one person (or whale!) can make and how being true to yourself can inspire others.

Lisa Doucet is the co-manager of Woozles Children’s Bookstore in Halifax. She shares her passion for children’s and young-adult books as our young readers editor and book reviewer.

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As we all #stayhomeandread this spring, local bookstores and publishers have special offers available to help you while away the hours. Indie bookstores are offering online shopping paired with curb-side pick-up or delivery, and more people are reading and listening to books in digital forms. From eBook packages to bundles of educational material for kids to calming downloadable colouring sheets, we’ll keep this list up to date with reading material for all ages, in whichever form you prefer.

Boularderie Island Press
$2.99 eShots: “eShots are like eBooks – just shorter. If you’re looking for something bigger than a breadbox but smaller than a… then eShots are for you. Novellas, short stories, novel excerpts, and non-fiction.” Buy them here.

Boulder Books
Nova Scotia DIY Special: Save 21% and get free shipping when you buy the essential cooking, foraging, and growing your own food easy to use Nova Scotia-specific guides: Get the deal here.

4 Book Package: 20% off and free shipping when you bundle Atlantic Gardening, Wildflowers and Ferns NFLD, Trees & Shrubs of NL, Favourite Perennials of Atlantic Canada. Get the deal here.

Newfoundland Book Package: 20% off and free shipping when you bundle Edible Plants of Newfoundland, Newfoundland Gardening, Birds of Newfoundland. Get the deal here.

Bouton d’or Acadie
Free shipping and a special offer:  3 books, small surprises and a bonus book for $30, taxes included. Choose 3 books from this selection and call (506) 382-1367 or email info@boutondoracadie.com to order.
Nous proposons la livraison gratuite et une offre spéciale: 3 livres + des petites surprises et un livre boni pour 30$, taxes incluses. Choisissez 3 livres parmi la sélection ici et on s’occupe du reste. Commandes: (506) 382-1367 / info@boutondoracadie.com

Breakwater Books
50% of all products (print and digital) until April 30. Use promo code READATHOME: breakwaterbooks.com

Chocolate River Publishing
Staying home with kids? The Stay Home Bundle includes 3 picture books and 3 novels with activity suggestions (and activity sheets available for download) at a reduced price ($50 vs $76.90), available from Tidewater books through online orders and safe drop deliveries if you’re in the Sackville, NB area. You can also order from chocolateriver.ca.

Conundrum Press 
Free shipping plus a free surprise backlist title with all orders, until the last Canadian province lifts its state of emergency: Get the deal here.

Curriculum Plus Publishing
Special Offer to Parents – save 50% on your choice of levelled book titles from our 160-book Canadian collection! PLUS free lessons and activities!

Fernwood Publishing 
Free colouring sheets: 6 pages from Jackie Traverse’s beautiful colouring books, Sacred Feminine and IKWE are available for free. Start colouring.

20% off until May 15: Use the code mayday20, and 20% from every sale is being donated to Mutual Aid Society Winnipeg, a volunteer-based, grassroots network that delivers essential supplies to those in need: fernwoodpublishing.ca

Flanker Press 
Spotlight books of the day for $5.00 and eBook of the day for $4.99– check their Facebook page for each day’s spotlight and eBook feature facebook.com/flankerpress/ 

Formac Publishing
Save 20% on online orders, with code ReadOn2020: formac.ca

Goose Lane Editions 
50% off all eBooks and free shipping on orders over $25.00: gooselane.com
Special Mother’s Day Collection 20& off. Use code MOM20: gooselane.com/collections/mothers-day 
Open Up and Explore: 20% off books about the great outdoors with the discount code EXPLORE20

Invisible Publishing 
Pay What You Can eBooks. All eBooks on invisiblepublishing.com are PWYC and 100% of proceeds go to the authors. No promo code needed: invisiblepublishing.com

ISER Books 
50% off your order, delivered direct to your door. ISER books are continuing to work on their upcoming titles from home and look forward to sharing them with you! The online bookstore is shipping books once per week. Use code 2020 at the checkout to get 50% off. Get the deal here.

New World Publishing 
FREE SHIPPING for all books in Canada ordered on newworldpublishing.com or by calling the TOLL FREE number 1-877-211-3334

Nimbus Publishing 
Free shipping on orders over $50. Use coupon code NIMSHIP50 at checkout! nimbus.ca

Pottersfield Press 
Any 6 eBooks for $30! pottersfieldpress.com

Running the Goat Books & Broadsides 
– Free shipping in Canada on all print titles
– 25% off Dave Paddon’s books this April, so you can get a bit of foolishness into your house while we’re all at home. Use the promo code PAD25 at checkout
– Under $10 audiobooks! 3 brand new audiobooks, each under $10.00
runningthegoat.com

SSP Publications
20% off online orders with Code ISOLSS20: sspub.ca

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Seasons Before the War
Bernice Morgan
Running the Goat

 

Shiny and New
Robert Chafe
Breakwater Books

 

 

In the kind of coincidence that can only happen in Newfoundland, two new Newfoundland children’s books have been published, separately, each as a result of choral concert performances.

Lady Cove Women’s Choir first commissioned Governor General Literary Award-winning playwright Robert Chafe’s (Oil and Water, The Colony of Unrequited Dreams) Shiny and New (published by Breakwater Books). It was originally a recitation combined with traditional Christmas music performed by the choir at Gower Street United Church in 2016.

Meanwhile, the Shallaway Youth Choir originally commissioned Thomas Raddall Literary Prize-winning novelist and short-story writer Bernice Morgan’s (Random Passage, Waiting for Time) Seasons Before the War (Running the Goat).

Shiny and New is Robert Chafe’s first middle-grade reader (a chapter book for ages 7-12) and features the artwork of Grant Boland. It is a contemporary story about community and the true Christmas spirit. It is a story of a little girl who has lost her grandmother, whose grandfather is grief-stricken and whose mother is hosting newcomers to the town for dinner. Change and tradition come together in the contemporary Christmas tale.

Morgan’s Seasons Before the War on the other hand celebrates memories of Christmases past, and a childhood in the St. John’s of the late 1930s. Brita Granstöm is the illustrator. This slightly fictionalized telling explores quotidian and seasonal delights: watching fire trucks put out fires at the local dump, going for messages at nearby shops, listening to stories by the kitchen stove, starting school and anticipating Christmas.

Morgan, who was born in pre-confederation Newfound, shows her talent here, displaying this world from the child’s eye while hinting at the changed world on the horizon.

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Capelin Weather is a brightly coloured picture book about the seasons, the environment, and animals, weaving them together in a way that is sure to draw children in. Written by Lori Doody, the book has the potential to be a springboard for discussions about the beauty and mystery of nature and how we are all connected to it.

The book tells the story of Kate, a young girl living in St. John’s, who impatiently awaits the summer weather so she can enjoy her favourite activities. Like many children, she focusses on the things she can’t do because of the rainy and cool weather: picnics, bonfires and playing in the pool. Kate’s grandmother explains what everyone is waiting for: capelin–the little grey fish that arrive on shore in early summer. She promises Kate that the current weather, “capelin weather”, will improve once the little fish arrive.

While anxiously awaiting the arrival, Kate takes in all of the natural beauty surrounding her, such as icebergs and gulls. Soon Kate and her community gather to catch the capelin during this annual event, which is well known to many in Atlantic Canada. The day after the capelin run, Kate sees that the weather has changed–summer has arrived! Although, she laments, it’s “maybe a little too warm.”

This book shows connections between the change of seasons, the weather, animals and humans–in a simple and understandable way, one that will be of great interest to children, who will be able to relate these things to their everyday lives and activities. Children will recognize many of the items in Doody’s colourful and child-like illustrations from their own backyards and toy shelves. Both children and adults will relate to Kate’s countdown and anxious anticipation of the upcoming summer, and all the fun that follows.

A useful and welcome addition to the book is an adult-oriented page giving more details about capelin, when and where they arrive and the many ways they are used. One suggestion: read this page before reading the book to a child, as it may help answer some of the questions curious and captivated readers and listeners will ask.

Capelin Weather
Lori Doody
Running the Goat

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This tale begins with the the birth of a baby lamb, a lamb whose baaa is heard throughout the village of River John, which is its home. It is heard by the fishermen and farmers, the fiddlers and the preachers, the children and the gardeners and by all the people, even Polly MacCauley.

Polly MacCauley lives alone in the woods and keeps to herself. She is somewhat of a legend in the village. But she is renowned for her wonderful woollen creations.

When Polly hears the baa of this little lamb she knows that it is a special lamb indeed. However, in a faraway land, the Count Woolliam and his sister Woolamina also hear this baa and they vow to find this lamb and keep it for themselves, to provide them with all the wool that their greedy hearts desire. But when the whole community rallies to protect Star, this very special lamb, the evil Count and his sister are so moved by their love that they have a complete change of heart.

Such is the legacy of this little lamb called Star. But her story does not end there, for it is then that she goes to live with Polly MacCauley and her true gift is revealed. And it is then that Polly MacCauley is finally able to complete her finest, divinest, wooliest gift of all.

Beloved wordsmith Sheree Fitch gives readers something wonderful and new in this latest work. Part folktale, part fairytale, it is a yarn that is meant to be told and retold, like a traditional tale that is handed down through the generations. It is a story that weaves along gently, revelling in wordplay and poetry and prose tripping merrily off the tongue.

Exquisite descriptions and delicate turns of phrase make the story beautiful and haunting and lovely. But at its heart, it is still a tale with a crucial message for all the world, a message of “healing and hope,” and of the importance of community and being “better when we are together.” It is a whimsical celebration of art, beauty and the power of creating for the good of all.

The folk-art style of the illustrations captures the cadence of the story. They are rich and luminous combined with delightful sketches and line drawings flowing joyfully from one page into the next, looping around and above and beneath and through the text. Although long for a picture book, this is a playful and heartfelt tale that will truly resonate with all ages.

Polly MacCauley’s Finest, Divinest, Woolliest Gift of All
Sheree Fitch, illustrated by Darka Erdelji
Running the Goat, Books & Broadsides