Sometimes I Feel Shy is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series which supports literacy development through stories that depict the environment and animals of the Canadian Arctic. The stories can be read as a series or independently of one another. This story follows Aqi, a shy ptarmigan struggling to connect with others in her new community. When invited to join a group of students from school to watch a movie, Aqi becomes quiet and uncomfortable. With support from her friend, Uka, Aqi learns how to communicate her feelings and finds the space to be herself. This book fits into the curriculum for younger students as it can help communicate the importance of patience, respect, and reciprocity. It can also promote discussions around valuing and communicating personal needs and boundaries.

Images: Colour illustrations
Contributor Affiliation: Author Aviaq Johnston (Inuit), Illustrator Ariel Sandland
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Source: Books BC - Indigenous Books for Schools

Aviaq Johnston is a young Inuk author from Igloolik, Nunavut. Her debut novel Those Who Run in the Sky was shortlisted for the 2017 Governor General's Literary Award for Young People's Literature, was a finalist for the Foreword INDIES Award for Young Adult Fiction, and a 2017 Honour Book for the Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Young Adult Literature. In 2018 she won the inaugural Indigenous Voices Award for Most Significant Work of Prose in English by an Emerging Indigenous Writer. She is also the author of the bestselling picture book, What's My Superpower? Aviaq loves to travel and has lived in Australia and Vietnam. She spends most of her time reading, writing, studying, and procrastinating. She divides her time between Iqaluit, Nunavut, and Ottawa, Ontario.

Aviaq Johnston's profile page

Amiel Sandland is an illustrator living in the Toronto area. He studied illustration at Seneca College, eventually specializing in comic arts and character design. He has also dabbled in layout, comics, and props making. Rarely found without a pen in hand, he enjoys drawing animals, monsters, and plants.

Amiel Sandland's profile page