Out into the Big Wide Lake

An empowering and necessary picture book about a young girl with Down syndrome who gains confidence and independence through a visit to her grandparents. The author of the Governor General's Award-nominated When the Moon Comes has written a story based on his own sister that's perfect for lake-based adventure and independence in the great outdoors.

An empowering and necessary picture book about a young girl with Down syndrome who gains confidence and independence through a visit to her grandparents. It's Kate's first time visiting her grandparents on her own at their lakeside home. She's nervous but excited at the adventure ahead. She helps her grandfather with his grocery deliveries by boat, where she meets all the neighbours, including a very grumpy old man named Walter. And she makes best friends with her grandparents' dog, Parbuckle.

Her grandmother even teaches her to pilot the boat all by herself!

When her grandfather takes ill suddenly, it's up to Kate but can she really make all those deliveries, even to grumpy old Walter? She has to try! Based on the author's sister, Kate is a lovable, brave, smart and feisty character who will capture your heart in this gorgeous and moving story about facing fears and gaining independence. (From Tundra Books)

Out into the Big Wide Lakeis on the shortlist for the 2021 Governor General's Literary Award foryoung people's literature illustrated books. The winners will be announced on Nov. 17, 2021.

Paul Harbridge is a Toronto-based author and illustrator originally from Muskoka, whose work is influenced by the lakes and forests he grew up around.His children's book, When The Moon Comes, a story about a group of friends whose anticipation of winter slowly builds as they wait for their local lake to freeze over so they can play hockey on its moonlit ice, was named a finalist for the Governor General's Literary Award for Young people's literature illustrated books.

Jose Bisaillon is a children's book writer and illustrator based outside Montreal. Her other books include Leap!, written by JonArno Lawson, and The Snow Knows, written by Jennifer McGrath.

• The finalists for the 2021 Governor General's Literary Award for young people's literature illustrated books