OAPCE Book Nook

In our Book Nook, we love highlighting stories that gently teach children about identity, belonging, and God’s unconditional love. One of my favourites to share with families is the wooden people series by Max Lucado. These stories introduce children to Eli the Maker, who lovingly creates each person exactly as they are meant to be. Through characters like Punchinello, children see the struggle to fit in, to earn approval, and to compare themselves to others. When Punchinello meets someone who only cares about what the Maker thinks, the dots and stars no longer stick—a powerful reminder that our worth comes from God alone. These stories offer a deep but accessible message for children: even when they feel “out of place” or different from their peers, they are wonderfully made and deeply loved. They remind us that our purpose is not to meet the world’s expectations, but to live as God sees us. If your family enjoys these themes, here are a few wonderful titles to explore by Max Lucado: These books pair beautifully with conversations about self-worth, kindness, and remembering whose voice matters most.

A contemporary novel that blends historical memory with personal grief, exploring how the past continues to shape identity and relationships. Adults & Educators

Teens & Young Adults (Ages 13+) A WWI novel following two schoolboys who enlist and face the brutal realities of war. Through fictional school magazines and poetic prose, the story explores love, grief, and the cost of conflict.

A picture book biography of Molly Lamb Bobak, Canada’s first official woman war artist. It highlights her determination and creativity, offering a unique perspective on women’s roles in wartime.

Carlo Acutis is known as the first millennial saint and has been affectionately nicknamed “God’s influencer.” He used his tech skills to create a website documenting Eucharistic miracles, and he lived a life of deep devotion to the Eucharist, daily Mass, and helping the poor. His relatable personality—jeans, sneakers, and love for video games—has made him a powerful role model for young Catholics around the world.

 (Graphic Novels) is a vibrant graphic novel series that brings the lives of Catholic saints to life with dynamic illustrations and compelling storytelling. Each volume features inspiring tales of courage, faith, and virtue, making the heroic journeys of saints accessible and engaging for middle grade readers and teens. A perfect blend of entertainment and spiritual enrichment.

The Brother Francis series offers a delightful and engaging way for young children to learn about the Catholic faith. Through colorful illustrations, simple explanations, and joyful storytelling, each book introduces key aspects of Catholic teaching—such as the Mass, the Rosary, the saints, and the sacraments—in a way that’s accessible and inspiring. Perfect for home, classroom, or parish use, this series helps children grow in love for Jesus and the Church while deepening their understanding of what it means to live as a Catholic.

Discover Bible Stories with LEGO Bricks! Hey kids! Get ready to dive into your favorite Bible stories, all brought to life with amazing LEGO designs. This awesome book is perfect for young readers who love Bible stories or are crazy about LEGO bricks. Inside, you’ll find six classic Bible stories, each illustrated in full color with LEGO creations: -Noah’s Ark: See Noah and his boat filled with animals. -David and Goliath: Watch David take on the giant, Goliath. -Daniel in the Lion’s Den: Find out how Daniel survived in a den of lions. -Joseph’s Colorful Coat: Learn about Joseph’s special coat and his dreams. -Jonah and the Whale: Discover how Jonah survive inside a whale. -The Birth of Jesus: Celebrate the birth of Jesus in a stable in Bethlehem.  This book is a must-have for any young LEGO fan or Bible story lover! 📖🧱✨

Parents are always looking out for the perfect bedtime book to create a sense of well-being before a night of rest. Mama Kisses, Papa Hugs explores a child’s curiosity about how love is shown between parent and child, with the reassurance that Mama and Papa will always love their little one. And like Lisa Tawn Bergren’s young protagonist asks his mother, this question is pressing on the minds of many children: “Mama, how does God kiss us?” Mama smiled. “He kisses us a hundred times a day; although if you don’t pay attention, you might miss it.”

A Child’s Guide to Lent and Easter” by Laura Alary, is a beautifully illustrated book that invites children to explore Lent through activities like cleaning, baking, and sharing. It fosters acts of justice and kindness, broadening understanding of Lent as preparation for Easter.

“When God Made You” by Matthew Paul Turner is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that celebrates the uniqueness and individuality of every child. The story emphasizes that each person is created with a purpose and is loved deeply by God. Through rhythmic and poetic language, the book conveys the message that every child is special, valuable, and has a unique role in the world. It’s a wonderful read for children and parents, encouraging self-acceptance and appreciation of one’s own gifts.

Start each day by remembering that God’s love for you is passionate and everlasting. Entrust Jesus with your worries and responsibilities, allowing Him to nourish your heart, comfort your soul, and impart wisdom through His Word. Each blessing and accompanying Scripture takes just moments to read but is filled with a hopeful, biblical perspective that will bring joy to your soul.

Thus begins a love letter from an anonymous narrator to their beloved. Through rhyming couplets rich with metaphor, the letter offers thirteen heartfelt and admirable principles, collectively forming a guide for a life well lived.  These gathered words of wisdom convey the narrator’s deepest hopes for their cherished one as they embark on their future, emphasizing above all that they are loved unconditionally.

On an otherwise ordinary day, the children unexpectedly receive a package at their doorstep, addressed specifically to them. Inside, they find an invitation and a scroll containing seven clues. As the mystery unfolds, the children embark on a treasure hunt that deepens their understanding of their Catholic faith. Each clue reveals another secret about the greatest gift God has ever given the world.

  Perfect for children ages 6–10, Indescribable: 100 Devotions About God & Science examines the role of God as the creator and the greatest scientist of all!  Children who are fascinated with the world around them, nature, and the earth will deepen their faith as they explore God’s Word. Each devotion focuses on: 1) a “Be Amazed” section with fascinating scientific facts on topics ranging from space to dinosaurs and other animals to our bodies and selves, 2) a hands-on, easy-to-follow STEM activity, and 3) a closing prayer. Your kids can follow this amazing scientific journey with engaging characters friends like them that are featured in the book.

Explore the Bible with your child while cooking up some delicious holiday treats! Bake through the Bible at Christmas contains 12 Bible stories, told in a simple, engaging style, that take a child through the events of the first Christmas. Each story is supported by a cooking activity that reinforces the main teaching, along with questions to discuss while cooking, and a simple recap to use while enjoying what you’ve made. Great family fun!

Written by New York Times best-selling author, David Jeremiah, The 12 Ways of Christmas is a reflection of how we can stop during the busy Christmas season and reflect on 12 aspects that make the season more meaningful:  wonder, sacrifice, humility, charity, creativity, simplicity, affection, reflection, giving, children, music, and tradition. These reflections will help cultivate God’s ways of Christmas in our own hearts, bringing us closer to the true sense of wonder and awe during this very special time of the year.

In this powerful collection of firsthand accounts, men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces offer a glimpse into military life, sharing personal stories of courage, perseverance, and sacrifice.  Author Jody Mitic brings together veterans and active-duty military personnel from across Canada to tell, in their own words, what it means to answer the call of duty.  Featuring courageous rescues, bravery in the face of conflict, and deep camaraderie both at home and abroad, Everyday Heroes offers an authentic and moving look into the lives of the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces. These accounts will fill you with pride for Canada.

In The Road to Afghanistan the young soldier, recently returned from Afghanistan, carries vivid memories: the breathtaking beauty of the mountains and wildflowers, the vibrant colors of the land and sky… but also the deep sorrow of a country scarred by war and the hardships faced by those who served there.  His thoughts turn to another soldier in the family — his great-grandfather, who endured the trenches of WWI, and his grandfather, who served during WWII. The young soldier also remembers those who did not make it back, honored in their journey home along the Highway of Heroes, watched over by silent, respectful observers.

With gentle words and illustrations tailored for young readers, A Poppy Is to Remember teaches children how the bright red poppy became a symbol of honoring those who fought for freedom. The simple text is paired with captivating artwork by award-winning illustrator Ron Lightburn. It also features the well-known poem, “In Flanders Fields,” and provides insights into the history and symbolism of the poppy and Remembrance Day, offering parents a valuable resource to explain the importance of past and present wars and Canada’s peacekeeping efforts.

Hidden Potential – Adam Grant This book offers some interesting insights into character skills, the important role of kindergarten in future success and how school systems can be built with a child-centred approach, in order to ensure all students reach their full potential. Learn More

Lego Catechesis—Building Blocks of Faith Series If you have a child who loves Legos, these Building Blocks of Faith Series of guides by Kevin and Mary O’ Neill are sure to please! Set in an easy-to-read comic-book format,  various Lego figures help kids understand Catholic catechism in a way that educates and entertains. In this series, kids can learn about the seven sacraments and their biblical roots, the significance and prayers of the Holy Mass, explore a pocket guide to the Stations of the Cross, and more! These books are full of rock-solid catechesis that give kids a sturdy foundation for building their Catholic faith.

Today, children face tremendous challenges and pressures from social media, crammed schedules, and a greater awareness of the world’s problems, resulting in loneliness, anxiety, and fear. Aimed at tweens and teens, this book helps them take control of their feelings and develop emotional understanding by focusing on God’s love. Download

Inspector Smart and the Case of the Empty Tomb: Case File (by Time Chester) is a great way to get tweens consider the evidence of the resurrection and ask more questions about who Jesus is and why he died.

The Power of Thank You delves into the many benefits of thankfulness, gratitude, generosity, and contentment, all from a faith-based perspective. The author, Joyce Meyer, frequently draws from the Bible, simplifying these concepts and showing how they were valued in Biblical times and should still be today. She explains how embracing gratitude and generosity, or neglecting them, can impact daily life, emphasizing the power of these traits. She acknowledges that life can be tough and that it’s sometimes hard to feel thankful, but she approaches these challenges with compassion and practical wisdom.

God Gave Us Thankful Hearts is a cozy read-aloud story that teaches an important lesson about gratitude. As kids follow the conversation between Little Pup and his mama, they come to understand that there’s always something to be thankful for, no matter the season or situation. When Pup only sees the negatives, Mama helps him focus on the lessons he’s learned and reminds him of God’s presence during tough times. By the end of the story, all three members of the wolf family are embracing the thankful hearts God gave them.

My Thanksgiving Blessings is filled with fun rhymes, that highlight the thankful spirit of the holiday. Young readers can follow along as the narrator gives thanks for the many gifts from God: cheerful friends, cozy clothes, delicious food, and a caring family; as well as pets, toys, and more. Although it’s focused on Thanksgiving Day, this heartwarming book teaches the importance of being grateful all year long.

Summer is the perfect time to challenge kids to unplug from video games and focus on reading. But how can parents create a summer experience that is meaningful and fun (and not seen as work)? Make reading kid-driven! 1- Create incentives: Create a reading list with your child, and keep track of the titles and pages read. If they meet a goal set, consider a reward such as extra time on tech, a  special outing for an ice-cream treat or to a favorite restaurant or play centre. 2- Have your child choose from a pre-organized list of books: There are many websites out there that arrange books into categories for summer reading. By having your child choose from one of these lists, you are encouraging their sense of independence. Check out Brightly, which has a list of suggestions for children from pre-K to 13+! Faithward has a 30-day summer Bible reading program for kids and families. 3- Make reading a family activity: Encourage everyone in your family to take up the summer reading challenge. It can include members as young as preschool to elementary school age,  older siblings, parents, and even grandparents! Reading can be a great bonding experience while at home or even on vacation! 4- Join up for summer reading challenges online and in person: Some children really enjoy the concept of reading and receiving prizes or joining a summer reading club. Visit your local library for summer reading programs or your church. Consider getting together with a few parents to host a summer reading program in your neighbourhood. Check out faithgateway for some great ideas on how to start. Reading a book with friends could be just the thing that changes a child’s mind about reading. The Ontario Library Association has also designed a Summer Reading Toolkit that lists many summer reading programs for kids to join. Everyday Family Faith by Sandy Swartzentruber is a pocket-sized resource guide for families looking to focus on daily faith formation. The guide provides activities for discussion about Bible verses, prayer life, how to integrate faith in a fun-filled way with your children, and more from Monday to Sunday!