We asked World Vision Canada president Dave Toycen to recommend a few books that young readers would find both interesting and inspiring. From the power of friendship to the beauty of diversity, these four titles address a wide variety of issues.
 
Beatrice's Goat
Scholastic Press
This award-winning picture book for children tells the true story of a nine-year-old Ugandan girl whose life is transformed when her family is given a goat.

Beatrice longs to attend school with the other village children, but instead she must tend to her five younger siblings and help her mother in the fields. The goat, one of 12 small animals given to the village, opens up a new world of opportunities for Beatrice and her family.

Toycen's comments: "This simple story is a practical reminder of how little it really takes to help make a difference in someone else's life."

Children Just Like Me
DK Publishing
Young readers will enjoy learning about the dreams, beliefs, hopes, fears and day-to-day lives of children from 140 countries in this book.

The authors created it after travelling the world for two years, meeting and talking to children. With more than 500 beautiful photos and information about each child's life and family, it gives young readers a chance to understand what life is like in other parts of the world.

Toycen's comments: "I love it because it shows that, no matter what our differences may be, we all share so much in common."

The Cardboard Shack Beneath the Bridge
Castle Quay Books
Tim Huff wrote and illustrated this unique picture book that lays the groundwork for parents and teachers to start talking with children about homelessness.

In addition to the lovely illustrations and gentle rhyming text, the book also includes a discussion guide for adults to address poverty issues with children.

Toycen's comments: "Huff knows the issues well: he has worked with poor and marginalized youth in Toronto for the past two decades and is one of World Vision's Canadian partners."

Owen & Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship
Scholastic Press
An inspiring true story of two great friends, a baby hippo named Owen and a 130-year-old giant tortoise named Mzee.

When Owen is stranded after the 2004 tsunami, villagers work tirelessly to rescue him. Owen is then brought to a preserve in Kenya where he meets Mzee. To everyone's amazement, the hippo and the tortoise become inseparable friends.

Toycen's comments: "This is a touching story that shows not only the power of friendship during times of loss, but also the fact that creatures that are very different can get along and help one another."

For six inspiring must-read books for adults, click here.