Want to pick best books for your kid? Here is BC teachers’ list

In celebration of the BCTF’s 100th anniversary and in recognition of the valuable role literature has always played in children’s learning, the Federation invited BC teachers to participate in “100 Best Books for BC Students.” The results are in!

We asked teachers: “What are the books you believe every student should read before graduating?” The result is a list of 100 books each for elementary and secondary students with an accompanying online resource and poster set to promote the books and the love of reading.

“The BCTF received thousands of submissions from teachers throughout the province to make these best books lists,” said BCTF President Glen Hansman. “Some teachers told us they chose books that inspire, books that resonate with their students, and books that stand the test of time. Other submissions were made based on the outstanding quality of writing or the compelling stories told. The list is by no means exhaustive or scientific, but it reflects the enthusiasm and passion teachers have for literacy and reading.”

To celebrate the release of the 100 Best Books lists, the BCTF has created a new web page called BCTF.ca/100bestbooks, and sent posters to every public school, public library, and independent book store in BC. The web page has links to every book to help readers access descriptions and the publishers’ information. The release of the lists also coincides this week with International Literacy Day, which is September 8, 2016.

“I encourage all teachers and others who love a great read to explore these best book lists,” said Hansman. “There is some excellent diversity represented and it shows how rich the genres of children’s and young adult literature are. Thank you too all the authors out there creating such wonderful stories!”