Library

Library Materials by Topic

These lists highlight some of the great resources you can find in the Decoda Literacy Library and free online.

EAL (English as an Additional Language) refers to individuals learning English in addition to their native language(s). At the Decoda Literacy Library, EAL support is crucial for fostering inclusivity and meeting the diverse needs of the community.

As a hub for literacy and learning, Decoda provides resources like language learning materials, teaching guides, and tools for building English proficiency. These resources empower EAL learners to improve communication skills, access essential information, and integrate more easily into their communities. Supporting EAL learners aligns with Decoda’s mission to enhance literacy and lifelong learning for all British Columbians, ensuring that everyone regardless of language background can fully participate in education, work, and daily life.

The following resources are good introductions to teaching adult EAL students

Adult Literacy Toolkit : Instructor Resources : English as an Additional Language Version

This resource was developed for instructors who are working with adult learners with minimal to no formal education in their country of origin. It covers 5 major areas: phonemic awareness, phonics, reading, vocabulary and comprehension.  It also contains 51 subtopic within the 5 major areas with a summary of key points at the end of each section.

ESLSAP tutor handbook

This resource is for tutors helping ESL learners to learn English through focusing on settlement issues. It offers practical information in 10 modules. This tutor resource includes strategies, resources, and activities. It is also available online.

A Practical Guide to Teaching ESL Literacy

A useful and in-depth resource for ESL literacy practitioners, this resource can support both instructors with dedicated classes of ESL literacy learners and instructors who have ESL literacy learners mixed with non-literacy learners. This resource introduces a Framework of Literacy Skills for Adult ESL Literacy Learners, which outlines the skills for the development of literacy. The resource also explores effective approaches to teaching adult ESL literacy learners. A copy is available in the library for borrowing.

Tutoring English as a Second Language (ESL) Learners

This online guide describes the role of the EAL tutor and outlines ways to assess needs and abilities and build speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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Best of the Reader

This series by Joan Acosta, former editor of The Westcoast Reader, is a valuable resource for EAL learners. There are 16 books that compile the top stories from The Westcoast Reader and improve reading comprehension, English literacy and vocabulary. Each book contains a specific reading level from 1-3 for beginners to intermediate learners and each book has at least eight stories with accompanying exercises. Both physical and free online versions are available.

Prace PageTurners Series

This series is ideal for low-literacy adult learners. These short, easy-to-read stories are written for adults, avoiding the need to adapt children’s books. They feature Australian humour and are written at five different reading levels. Our library mainly has levels 1-2 and each book contains illustrations, a complete word list, follow-up exercises, and discussion topics. Additional support materials, such as audio recordings and worksheets, are available for free on their website.

Facilitation skills are valuable because they empower individuals to actively participate in group learning, discussions and community initiatives. These skills help us build confidence in sharing ideas, collaborating with others, and navigating diverse perspectives, which are essential for personal and professional growth. By developing facilitation abilities, we can take on leadership roles in literacy programs, contribute to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments, and advocate for their own needs and those of their communities.

The following resources are good introductions to facilitation skills

Community Conversations: mobilizing the ideas, skills, and passion of community organizations, governments, businesses, and people, 2nd ed.
Paul Born. Toronto: BPS Books, 2012.

This book looks at the building blocks of community conversations that explore the common goals of a diverse array of people with different backgrounds and needs. It offers ten techniques for community conversations.

The Community Tool Box. Ch. 16. Group facilitation and problem-solving (online)
Lawrence, KS: Work Group for Community Health and Development, University of Kansas, 2012.

This online resource covers the following topics: conducting effective meetings, developing facilitation skills, tips for recording a meeting, and techniques for leading group discussions.

Consensus-oriented decision-making: the CODM model for facilitating groups to widespread agreement
Tim Hartnett. Gabriola, BC : New Society Publishers, 2010.

This resource offers a step-by-step process for collaborative group decision-making. It combines insight into group dynamics with effective communication skills and conflict resolution techniques.

Facilitator’s guide to participatory decision-making, 3rd ed.
Sam Kaner & Lenny Lind. San Francisco: John Wiley & Sons/Jossey-Bass, 2014.

This guide provides information on the processes involved in facilitating group decision-making, including tips on guiding the process to create sustainable decisions. The guide also includes information on necessary facilitator tools, such as listening techniques, tips on using open discussion, and methods for addressing difficult or challenging group dynamics.

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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More Ramped-up Read Alouds : Building Knowledge and Boosting Comprehension
Maria P. Walther. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin, 2024.

This is a comprehensive resource designed to help educators transform read-aloud sessions into powerful tools for enhancing literacy and content knowledge. The book emphasizes the importance of choosing purposeful texts—both fiction and nonfiction—that align with curricular goals and students’ interests, providing opportunities to build background knowledge, introduce complex vocabulary, and foster deeper comprehension. Walther offers practical strategies to captivate and engage students during read-alouds, such as expressive reading, interactive discussions, and activities that prompt predictions, connections, and critical thinking. She provides frameworks for structuring pre-reading, during-reading, and post-reading activities to maximize comprehension and application of new knowledge. Additionally, the book highlights how read-alouds can support cross-curricular learning in areas like science, social studies, and social-emotional development. Packed with curated book lists, detailed lesson plans, and reproducible materials, this resource equips teachers with tools to create meaningful, engaging, and impactful read-aloud experiences that support student growth in literacy and beyond.

EdTech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in the Age of AI, 2nd ed.
Monica Burns. Arlington, VA: ASCD, 2024.

This resource offers educators a practical guide to integrating technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into their classrooms to enhance student learning. The book outlines 12 essential strategies, including personalizing learning, fostering collaboration, utilizing data for decision-making, promoting creativity, and making learning accessible to all students. Burns provides real-world examples, specific tools, and actionable tips for applying these strategies, highlighting the role of AI in supporting personalized and inclusive education. She emphasizes the importance of balancing technology with effective pedagogy and encourages teachers to embrace technology to improve classroom management, assessment practices, and student engagement, while also preparing students for lifelong learning.

The Choreography of Presenting: The 7 Essential Abilities of Effective Presenters, 2nd ed.
Kendall Zoller. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin, 2024.

This resource provides a comprehensive guide for enhancing presentation skills by focusing on seven key abilities: presence, clarity, purpose, energy, storytelling, audience connection, and adaptability. Zoller likens presenting to choreography, emphasizing that effective presenters must harmonize their verbal and non-verbal communication to engage and influence their audience. The book offers practical strategies for improving these abilities, such as using body language to reinforce the message, structuring content for clarity, incorporating compelling stories, and connecting with the audience through rapport-building and adaptability. Zoller also discusses the importance of practice, feedback, and the thoughtful use of technology, warning against over-relying on slides. With real-world examples and actionable tips, the book equips presenters to deliver engaging, impactful presentations that resonate with their audiences and achieve their goals.

Numeracy skills are essential because they empower individuals to confidently navigate everyday tasks, from managing personal finances to interpreting data and making informed decisions. These skills enhance problem-solving abilities and enable us to engage more effectively in work, education and community activities. Strong numeracy also supports lifelong learning and equips individuals to critically evaluate information, a key component in today’s increasingly data-driven world. By developing numeracy skills, we can achieve greater independence, improve our quality of life, and contribute meaningfully to our families and communities. 

The following resources are a good introduction to teaching math skills to adults

Active Learning in Adult Numeracy (online)

This series of videos with accompanying essays was recorded at an adult education math instructors’ training. Topics include: communication in math classrooms, resisting the temptation to be too helpful, scaffolding adult numeracy lessons and building deeper understanding of decimal numbers.

Changing the Way We Teach Math (online)

The manual sets out some best practices from the literature, then outlines some difficulties instructors may face and makes suggestions for overcoming them. The manual concludes with many pages of activities, requiring little or no preparation, which provide examples of how to implement the best practices.

Teaching Adults: a Math Resource Book

This in-depth resource book offers instructors and tutors a number of tips and strategies for teaching math to adult learners.

TEAL (Teaching Excellence in Adult Literacy) Math Works! Guide (online)

This guide can be used by instructors to increase their familiarity with evidence-based mathematics and numeracy instruction and to translate research findings into teaching practices.

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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Math Therapy: 5 Steps to Help Your Student Overcome Math Trauma and Build a Better Relationship with Math
Venessa Vakharia. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin, 2024.

This is an 8-chapter book authored by Vanessa “The Math Guru” Vakharia. In this book, Vakharia shares her personal experiences with math failure and how she overcame them to become a math expert. The book introduces the 5 M’s (Mythbust, Moderate, Motivate, Makeover, and Measure) approach to Math Therapy and provides practical, research-based strategies from education and neuropsychology to help learners overcome math trauma and tackle the challenges they face in math.

I Can Do Math: 90 Interactive Minibooks that Promote Independence in Young Math Learners
Desirèe Rossi. Markham, ON: Pembroke, 2024.

This book offers a collection of 90 interactive minibooks designed to help young learners develop foundational math skills while fostering independence and confidence. The minibooks cover key topics like number sense, addition, subtraction, shapes, measurement, money, time, and patterns, with hands-on activities such as drawing, coloring, and solving problems to make abstract concepts more tangible. Rossi emphasizes self-reliance, allowing students to work at their own pace. The minibooks cater to different learning styles and levels, integrating visuals and manipulatives to enhance understanding. The book also provides guidance for educators and parents, with tips for introducing activities, assessing progress, and adapting tasks for diverse needs. This versatile resource encourages self-assessment, reflection, and the development of critical thinking skills, making math both engaging and empowering for young learners.

Reading skills are vital for because they form the foundation for accessing information, lifelong learning and personal empowerment. Strong reading abilities enable individuals to navigate daily life, from understanding instructions and filling out forms to exploring new knowledge and enjoying literature. These skills also enhance communication, critical thinking and the ability to engage with diverse perspectives. Improved reading skills open doors to educational and professional opportunities, strengthen community participation and foster a sense of confidence and independence.

The following resources are good introductions to teaching reading to adults

Active Reader Series

The Active Reader Series by Linda Kita-Bradley is a dynamic collection of educational resources designed to develop literacy and critical thinking skills in students. Focused on engaging readers across various grade levels, the series incorporates diverse texts and thought-provoking activities to enhance comprehension, analysis, and communication.

Each book in the series provides a range of reading passages—fiction, non-fiction, and informational texts—accompanied by exercises that encourage active engagement with the material. These activities include vocabulary building, questioning techniques, summarizing, and making connections, all aimed at fostering deeper understanding and independent learning.

The Active Reader Series is widely used in classrooms to support differentiated instruction, offering accessible materials for learners with varying needs. By emphasizing active participation and reflection, Linda Kita-Bradley’s series equips students with essential skills for academic success and lifelong learning.

Literacy tutor’s guide: reading for meaning and the writing process
Edmonton, Alta.: Centre for Family Literacy, 2006.

Half of this concise, practical tutor’s guide contains a description of strategies for teaching reading.

Teaching Adults: a Literacy Resource Book
Terry Lipke. Syracuse, NY: New Readers Press, 2013.

This resource pulls together many of the best instructional strategies that have been proven effective for helping adults improve their literacy skills. It includes background information on literacy as well as 80 specific activities that tutors can use with literacy learners.

Teaching Beginning Readers
Pat Campbell. Edmonton, AB: Grass Roots Press, 2010

This resource presents ten principles for teaching beginning adult readers and answers three frequently asked questions: Where do I start? Do I need to teach skills in a particular order? What do I teach? This is followed by instructional activities, many geared towards one-to-one tutoring which can be modified for classroom use.

Teaching Reading to Adults: a Balanced Approach
Pat Campbell. Edmonton, AB: Grass Roots Press, 2003.

This resource for adult educators covers theoretical and practical knowledge about reading assessment and instruction. It balances instruction in ‘reading the word’ with instruction in ‘reading the world’.

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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Overcoming Dyslexia:  major update and revision of the essential program for reading problems at any level, incorporating the latest breakthroughs in science, education methods, technology, and legal accommodations
Sally E. Shaywitz and Jonathan Shaywitz. New York: Vintage Books, 2020.

Overcoming Dyslexia was featured on Dyslexia Canada’s resource list. This adaptable seven-part book provides a holistic, updated view of dyslexia and covers diagnosis, technology, and strategies to improve reading and self-esteem for all ages. It emphasizes early intervention, individualized support, and leveraging strengths.

Dyslexia Workbook for Adults
Gavin Reid. Emeryville, CA: Rockridge Press, 2020.

Dyslexia Workbook for Adults includes seven chapters, an answer key, and additional resources. It addresses stressors, offers coping strategies, and presents real-life scenarios to help dyslexic individuals apply strategies and strengths to overcome challenges.

Bridging the Reading Gap: Explicit Instruction that Supports Spelling, Phonics, Morphology, and Vocabulary Development in Grades 4-8
Heather Willms. Markham, ON: Pembroke, 2024.

This resource offers a comprehensive guide for educators on improving literacy skills in upper elementary and middle school students. Adaptable for adults, the book stresses the importance of explicit instruction in key areas such as spelling, phonics, morphology, and vocabulary, aiming to bridge gaps in reading and writing. Willms highlights the interconnection of these elements, emphasizing that students need a deep understanding of phonics, spelling patterns, word structures, and vocabulary to become proficient readers and writers. The book provides practical strategies for teaching these skills, including differentiated approaches for struggling readers, and suggests using activities like word sorts, graphic organizers, and direct vocabulary instruction to enhance learning. The lessons are based on extensive classroom experience, including feedback from teachers who used them in their own classrooms. Willms also underscores the role of assessment in tracking student progress and adjusting instruction to meet individual needs. Ultimately, the book advocates for a holistic approach where these foundational skills work together to support reading comprehension, academic success, and the development of a rich vocabulary in grades 4-8.

Writing skills are essential because they enable clear communication, self-expression and active participation in personal, professional and community life. Strong writing abilities help individuals complete everyday tasks such as filling out forms, crafting resumes, or composing emails, while also fostering creativity through journaling or storytelling. Writing skills contribute to critical thinking and the ability to articulate ideas effectively, empowering us to advocate for ourselves and others. By developing these skills, we can achieve greater independence, pursue educational and career opportunities, and engage more fully in lifelong learning.

The following resources are good introductions to teaching writing to adults

The Writing Revolution 2.0: a Guide to Advancing Thinking Through Writing in All Subjects and Grades
Judith C. Hochman, Natalie Wexler with Kathleen Maloney. Hoboken, NJ: Jossey-Bass, 2024.

This book features three sections and 13 chapters of writing instruction applicable to all ages, subjects, and skill levels. This updated edition enhances the original methodology with new features, including additional multiple-paragraph outlines, a revised sequence of sentence activities, and explicit guidance on transitions. The book underscores the importance of breaking writing into manageable steps, allowing students to master skills incrementally while integrating writing into content instruction. It includes strategies for scaffolding, assessing progress, and embedding writing tasks in subjects like history, science, and math, ensuring students not only improve their communication skills but also deepen their understanding of academic material. With expanded examples, discussion questions, and online resources, the book serves as a practical guide for educators, transforming writing instruction into a cohesive and accessible process that benefits all learners​. A companion website also provides additional resources, including research, feedback on the Hochman method, and online courses to help educators integrate it into their teaching.

Improving adult literacy instruction: developing reading and writing (online)
Washington, DC: National Academies Press, 2012.

This booklet, which is based on the report, Improving Adult Literacy Instruction, presents an overview of what is known about how literacy develops, the component skills of reading and writing, and the practices that are effective for developing them. (The full report is available to borrow from the library.)

Just write! guide (online)
Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Vocational and Adult Education, 2012.

From the Teaching Effectiveness in Adult Literacy (TEAL) project, this guide provides research-based instructional practices in writing instruction. It covers strategy instruction, self-Regulated learning, Universal Design for Learning, formative assessment, differentiated instruction, and effective lesson planning. There is also a brief fact sheet on research-based writing instruction.

Literacy tutor’s guide: reading for meaning and the writing process
Edmonton, Alta.: Centre for Family Literacy, 2006.

Half of this concise, practical tutor’s guide contains a description of the writing process and strategies for teaching writing.

Writing
Sue Grief and Jan Chatterton. Leicester: NIACE, 2007.

This guide, based on writing research, develops a number of themes on teaching writing and provides examples of a variety of approaches.

Writing out loud. Reprint edition.
Deborah Morgan. Vancouver, BC: Decoda Literacy Solutions, 2015.

This book, a binder format reprint of the second edition, contains a collection of exercises and inspiring ideas to encourage learners to write. Designed for adult basic education and ESL educators, this user-friendly manual provides detailed steps for each writing activity, samples of student writing, and ways to adapt activities for students at different literacy levels.

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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The Great Writing Series

This series is a multi-level instructional resource designed to improve academic writing for learners at varying proficiency levels, from beginners to advanced. With six levels, the series progresses from teaching the construction of clear, effective sentences to crafting well-organized essays. The updated edition emphasizes a structured, step-by-step approach, beginning with foundational elements of grammar, organization, and mechanics. Vocabulary development is expanded through targeted practice on academic words, collocations, and forms, while sentence-building exercises help students create more complex and varied structures. Each unit integrates writing models and activities that guide learners through drafting, revising, and editing, ensuring practical application of skills. National Geographic content enhances the material with engaging visuals and real-world contexts, and a test preparation section includes timed tasks and tips for exams like IELTS and TOEFL. This combination of structured guidance and rich content equips learners to become confident, proficient writers across a range of academic and professional settings

Learning about Canadian history provides a foundation for understanding the country’s diverse cultural, political and social development. Exploring Canadian history helps individuals connect with the past, appreciate the contributions of various communities, and recognize the challenges and achievements that have shaped modern Canada.

Resources on Canadian history are invaluable for fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness. They offer insights into Indigenous histories and perspectives, the impacts of colonization, the evolution of national policies, and the diverse stories of immigration and settlement. Understanding these elements is crucial for promoting informed citizenship and reconciliation efforts, as well as for encouraging meaningful discussions about identity and shared values.

By engaging with Canadian history, we can develop a deeper sense of belonging and empowerment, equipping us to actively participate in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. The Decoda Literacy Library supports this by providing accessible materials to learners of all ages and backgrounds.

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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Canadian Provinces and Territories

The O Canada Lightbox book series, published by Smartbook Media, is an engaging collection of educational books that introduces readers to Canada’s provinces, territories, and key national topics. Designed for young learners, the series uses a visually rich format with vibrant images, infographics, and accessible text to make learning about Canada both informative and enjoyable.

Each book in the series explores unique aspects of Canadian geography, culture, history, and natural wonders. Topics include Indigenous heritage, provincial and territorial highlights, economic activities, and local traditions, offering a comprehensive look at the diversity and richness of the country.

The O Canada Lightbox series supports literacy and learning with features like glossaries, timelines, and discussion prompts that encourage critical thinking and further exploration. Ideal for classrooms and libraries, this series is a valuable resource for introducing students to the vast and varied landscape of Canada while fostering an appreciation for its cultural and natural diversity.

Canada Through Times Series

The Canada Through Time book series by Kathleen Corrigan is an educational collection that explores key moments, figures, and themes in Canadian history. Designed for young readers, the series presents a chronological journey through Canada’s past, highlighting pivotal events and the diverse peoples who have shaped the nation.

Each book combines engaging narratives, illustrations, and photographs to bring history to life, making complex topics accessible and relatable for students. The series covers a wide range of topics, including Indigenous cultures before European contact, the era of exploration and colonization, the development of Canada as a confederation, and the contributions of various communities to its growth.

The Canada Through Time series supports critical thinking and historical inquiry by including discussion questions, timelines, and activities. It is a valuable resource for educators and learners, fostering an understanding of Canada’s history while encouraging reflection on its ongoing impact. This series is an excellent tool for promoting historical literacy and a deeper appreciation of Canada’s diverse heritage.

Early childhood learning resources help lay the foundation for lifelong learning, literacy and development. These resources support parents, caregivers and educators in fostering critical early skills such as language, social interaction and cognitive development during a child’s formative years.

Access to high-quality early learning materials can help reduce literacy gaps, especially for families facing barriers to education. They also empower caregivers with the tools and knowledge needed to create enriching learning environments at home. For educators, these resources provide evidence-based strategies to engage young learners effectively.

By offering diverse and accessible early childhood learning materials, the Decoda Literacy Library plays a key role in building stronger communities, equipping children with the skills needed for future success, and supporting families in nurturing a love for learning from the start.

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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So Much More Than the ABCs: The Early Phases of Reading & Writing.
Molly F. Collins. Washington DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children, 2024.

This updated 2024 version is a comprehensive guide with two parts and eight chapters. The book aims to foster children’s interest in reading and writing through research-based activities and strategies. It explains key literacy skills, such as letter recognition, phonics, vocabulary, writing mechanics, and comprehension, and emphasizes their long-term benefits. The book underscores the importance of early literacy in supporting academic success and lifelong learning, offering practical insights for educators and parents to nurture young readers and writers.

Loose Parts Series

The Loose Parts book series by Miriam Beloglovsky and Lisa Daly shows how to use simple, everyday items to spark creativity and learning in children. These “loose parts,” like natural objects and household materials, encourage children to play, explore, and grow in areas like thinking, social skills, and physical coordination. The books include helpful ideas, real-life examples, and colorful pictures to guide parents, teachers, and caregivers in creating fun and inclusive spaces for children to learn through play.

Spotlight on Young Children Series

The Spotlight on Young Children Series is a collection of educational books focused on early childhood development, aimed at providing practical insights and strategies for educators, parents, and caregivers. Published by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the series addresses a wide range of topics related to young children’s learning, behavior, and development.

Each book in the series covers specific themes, such as promoting social-emotional development, fostering creativity, enhancing language skills, supporting diverse learners, and creating inclusive learning environments. The series often includes research-based articles, real-life examples, and practical suggestions for implementing best practices in early childhood education.

The Spotlight on Young Children books serve as valuable resources for professionals in the field of early childhood education, helping them stay informed about current trends, effective teaching strategies, and ways to meet the needs of young children in diverse settings.

Indigenous educational resources play a vital role in  fostering lifelong learning, inclusivity and cultural understanding. These resources empower us by offering authentic perspectives on Indigenous knowledge, histories and cultures, which are often underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream educational materials.

For non-Indigenous Canadians, such resources promote awareness and reconciliation by illuminating the historical and contemporary experiences of Indigenous communities. For Indigenous patrons, they serve as a means to celebrate cultural heritage, preserve traditional knowledge and inspire pride in identity.

Moreover, these resources align with Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, particularly those emphasizing the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives in educational and public programming. By integrating Indigenous resources, Decoda Literacy Library strives to create a more inclusive space that respects diversity, promotes equity, and supports literacy for all community members.

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples
Bob Joseph and Cynthia F. Joseph. Port Coquitlam, BC: Indigenous Relations Press, 2017

Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples by Bob Joseph and Cynthia F. Joseph is a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals and organizations build respectful and effective relationships with Indigenous communities. Drawing on the authors’ extensive experience in cultural awareness training, the book offers practical insights into understanding Indigenous cultures, histories, and contemporary issues.

The book addresses key topics such as the historical and legal context of Indigenous relations in Canada, the significance of treaties, the impact of residential schools, and the importance of cultural protocols. It also provides actionable strategies for fostering trust, avoiding common misconceptions, and navigating cross-cultural interactions in a professional setting.

With a focus on fostering mutual respect and collaboration, this guide is an invaluable resource for professionals working in government, education, business, or social services. It equips readers with the knowledge and tools needed to engage meaningfully with Indigenous Peoples and contribute to reconciliation efforts in Canada.

Truth and reconciliation in Canadian schools
Pamela Rose Toulouse. Winnipeg, MB: Portage & Main Press, 2018.

Truth and Reconciliation in Canadian Schools by Pamela Rose Toulouse is a practical and insightful guide that empowers educators to incorporate Indigenous perspectives and the principles of reconciliation into their teaching. Drawing on her Métis heritage and extensive experience as an educator, Toulouse provides actionable strategies and resources to help teachers create inclusive and respectful learning environments.

The book emphasizes the importance of understanding Canada’s history of colonization, residential schools, and the enduring impact on Indigenous communities. It offers tools for fostering critical conversations about truth and reconciliation, grounded in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

Rich with lesson plans, classroom activities, and personal reflections, the book equips teachers to engage students meaningfully in learning about Indigenous cultures, histories, and contributions. Toulouse’s work is an essential resource for educators committed to advancing reconciliation and building bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Strong Stories Series

The Strong Stories series is an engaging collection of Indigenous books that celebrates the rich cultures, histories, and traditions of the Tlingit, Coast Salish, and Kwakwaka’wakw peoples. Written by Indigenous authors and storytellers, this series highlights the importance of oral storytelling, offering authentic narratives that reflect the values and perspectives of these communities.

Each book in the series is beautifully illustrated and tailored for young readers, making it an excellent resource for introducing Indigenous knowledge and worldviews to children. The stories often center around themes like respect for nature, community connections, and traditional practices, serving as a meaningful tool for cultural education and reconciliation.

This series not only preserves traditional stories but also supports efforts to keep Indigenous languages and teachings alive for future generations. Perfect for libraries, classrooms, and families, Strong Stories fosters understanding and appreciation of the diverse Indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest.

Turtle Island Voices

The Turtle Island Voices series is an educational collection of books designed to celebrate and amplify Indigenous voices, cultures, and perspectives across North America. Featuring a mix of traditional stories, contemporary narratives, and culturally rich themes, the series provides a diverse and authentic representation of Indigenous heritage and experiences.

Written by Indigenous authors and contributors, Turtle Island Voices is geared toward elementary and middle-grade readers, with content organized across different reading levels to support literacy development. The stories often explore topics such as respect for the environment, intergenerational wisdom, community values, and the resilience of Indigenous peoples.

This series serves as a valuable resource for educators and families, aligning with efforts to promote cultural understanding and inclusion in education. By offering authentic storytelling and relatable characters, Turtle Island Voices inspires appreciation for Indigenous knowledge and traditions while fostering a deeper connection to the history and future of Turtle Island.

Workplace literacy is essential for personal growth, employment opportunities and community well-being. The following resources help individuals build skills like reading, writing, numeracy and digital proficiency to succeed in jobs, understand workplace requirements and advance their careers. By supporting workplace literacy, we empower marginalized groups, foster inclusivity and boost community resilience while also benefiting employers through improved productivity and teamwork.

Skills for Success

The Skills for Success Program, launched by the Government of Canada in 2021, is a transformative initiative aimed at equipping Canadians with critical foundational and transferable skills necessary for thriving in learning, work, and everyday life. Building on the Essential Skills framework, it includes foundational skills such as reading, writing, and numeracy and socio-emotional and workplace skills like adaptability, creativity, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. The program places a strong emphasis on digital literacy, addressing the growing need for technological proficiency in the evolving labor market. The program is especially aimed at helping groups who often face challenges in the job market, such as newcomers, Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, and people with disabilities. This initiative helps individuals improve their job prospects while also contributing to a stronger Canadian economy by closing skill gaps and boosting productivity

To learn more, browse the following lists:

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ABC Life Literacy Canada: UP Skills for Work

UP Skills for Work is a program by ABC Life Literacy Canada that is designed to help adults develop essential soft skills like communication, time management, adaptability, and stress management which are needed for workplace success and personal growth.  By improving employability, building confidence, and fostering lifelong learning, UP Skills for Work equips individuals with the tools needed to have a successful career. Each Skills for Success list includes resources from ABC Life Literacy Canada.

Grass Roots Press: Soft Skills at Work

Grass Roots Press: Soft Skills at Work is an educational resource tailored to help learners develop key interpersonal and professional skills that are vital for workplace success. The program emphasizes the importance of “soft skills,” which include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and workplace etiquette. Through a series of real-life scenarios and practical exercises, it teaches learners how to navigate common workplace challenges, such as resolving conflicts, collaborating with colleagues, and effectively managing time and tasks.

The content is designed to be accessible, using clear language and relatable examples to engage learners at varying literacy levels. Each chapter introduces a specific skill, provides practical strategies for improvement, and includes activities that allow users to apply what they have learned in simulated workplace situations. By focusing on these foundational skills, Soft Skills at Work aims to build confidence and improve employability, making it an invaluable tool for adult learners, job readiness programs, and professional development courses.