February is Black History Month in Canada—a time to learn about, to honour, and to celebrate the history and culture of Black people in Canada. An online search will produce many ideas to help you raise your students’ awareness of the contributions and achievements of Black Canadians.
A new release from Orca Book Publishers—The Trailblazing Life of Viola Desmond: A Civil Rights Icon by Rachel Kehoe with Wanda Robson, illustrated by Chelsea Charles, is a welcome addition to the titles about Black Canadians already
available from Canadian publishers. This ten-chapter book, designed for middle-grade readers, chronicles the life of
Viola Desmond from interviews with Wanda Robson, Viola’s younger sister. Wanda’s memories and reflections on Viola’s
life bring a personal perspective to the story of a person who was ultimately honoured in several ways by the government of Canada for her lifelong commitment to equal rights for Black people. Alongside the running text, which is a chronological biography of Viola, are many sidebars providing additional information about other people and events that influenced Viola’s fight. The running text could be read aloud in a classroom setting, with pauses to discuss your students’ questions and comments. The sidebars could be used to inspire further research by intermediate students into people and events that shaped the Civil Rights movement in North America. Backmatter includes a timeline, glossary, and list of resources for further study.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Diana Mumford
Diana is the Editor of Canadian Teacher Magazine.
This article is featured in Canadian Teacher Magazine’s Winter 2024 issue.
