Rina Singh has published several critically acclaimed books for children inspired by her Indian Canadian heritage, including Diwali Lights, Holi Colors and Diwali: A Festival of Lights, which was nominated for the Red Cedar Award. Rina’s own grandmother never got the chance to go to school. Grandmother School is dedicated to her memory. Rina lives in Toronto with her family.

Rina Singh's profile page

Ellen Rooney is an award-winning designer, artist and children’s book illustrator. Her textural mixed media artwork combines many traditional art techniques, like pencil drawing, painting, printmaking and collage, often combined with digital techniques. She is the winner of the 2021 Christie Harris Illustrated Children's Literature Prize for Grandmother School. Originally from Massachusetts, she now lives in the southern Okanagan Valley in British Columbia.

 

Ellen Rooney's profile page

• Nominated, Saskatchewan Young Readers' Choice Awards - Shining Willow
• Short-listed, The Egghead - The Doug Wright Award for best kids’ book
• Winner, BC and Yukon Book Prizes - Christie Harris Illustrated Children's Literature Prize
• Short-listed, Forest of Reading Blue Spruce Award
• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection
• Commended, Ontario Library association (OLA) Best Bets

“A moving story about family, women and the power of education―when Aaji learns to spell her name you’ll want to dance along with her.”

Here Wee Read

“Offers its readers a poignantly lively picture book that expressly reveals the power and freedom found in words for women across the world. How great a treat it will be to read this book in a grandmother’s lap. Highly Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“A wonderful and poignant story about the need for literacy and how vital learning to read is.”

The Globe and Mail

"The connection between the little girl and the grandmother is the touching heart of this story."

Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Canadian Children’s Book News

“Joy is evident on the page—and infectious...A spirited book about gender, age, rights, and the importance of education.”

Kirkus Reviews

“Gorgeous…Colors are crisp and contemporary…Provides a surprising angle to the growing body of children’s books about gender inequality and the continued work of pioneers like Aaji.”

Booklist