Relationship skills are the central theme of these books about contemporary Canadian kids. The characters in these books learn to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and cultivate healthy, lasting connections with friends, family, and peers.

  • Canadian settings and characters
  • Realistic fiction
  • Relatable challenges
  • Diverse characters
  • Stories featuring romance, sports, and coming of age


A recently arrived Ugandan immigrant is desperate to prove himself on the soccer field, at all costs, until his friends and a coach remind him of the value of team play and supporting each other.

A disabled teen climate activist navigates a protective family and her desire to take action and have more independence, while also experiencing first love.


A passionate teen volleyball player confronts anti-gay attitudes at school by creating an inclusive team, learning about activism and community while finding unexpected romance.

A dedicated LGBTQ+ softball player faces the emotional strain of her father’s illness and a new summer romance, learning to balance love, loss, and ambition as she figures out what truly matters most.



A closeted teen from Toronto spends a liberating summer in Vancouver during the 1990 Gay Games, where he confronts his identity and chooses between hiding or living openly.

A popular, closeted, teen from Charlottetown struggles with her hidden sexuality and guilt over bullying, but a night with a nonbinary classmate helps her embrace her true self and new love.