Still My Tessa by Sylv Chiang, illustrated by Mathias Ball

A gently affirming story of the connection between siblings, and learning to embrace non-binary identities, and be an effective ally at home and in our communities

Evelyn is worried about Tessa. Tessa doesn't want to play the same games they used to play together, but Evelyn is determined to find new ways to connect with her older sibling. And she is also learning to see Tessa as a non-binary person by learning to use new pronouns for them.

Evelyn learns very quickly that it isn't hard, but she sees that others still find it difficult.

Through the course of this heartfelt story, Evelyn reaffirms her connection to her sibling and shows those around them how to make the effort to support Tessa with love. Back matter includes information on gender and ways to be a kind and effective ally.(From Scholastic Canada)

Still My Tessawon the 2024 edition of CBC Kids Reads. It was championed byGary the Unicorn duringthe second edition of 'Canada Reads for kids.'

• 32 Canadian books for children to check out this spring
• CBC Kids Reads is back! 6 Canadian picture books are in the running to be crowned this year's champion
• Still My Tessa by Sylv Chiang & Mathias Ball wins CBC Kids Reads 2024

Sylv Chiangis a teacher and a children's book author. She also wrote the middle-grade series, Cross Ups, which includes the booksRising Star,Anyone's GameandTournament Trouble.Still My Tessais Chiang's first picture book. She grew up in Toronto and now lives in Pickering, Ont.

Mathias Ballisa trans-identified illustrator from Goderich, Ont.Other picture books they've illustrated includeEvery Body Is a Rainbowby Caroline Carter andWhat If Bedtime Didn't Exist?byFrancine Cunningham.