Open World 1, Unit 7: Patchwork City
This post contains links. If you make a purchase through these links The English Extension Organization (TEEO) will earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you, which will be used to purchase books for classrooms. This unit focuses on the city of Toronto, the various neighborhoods, and the many languages spoken in the city. It’s not easy to find literature related to this theme, but here is some:
Runaway Rodents: The Untold Story of Toronto’s Infamous Capybaras, by Dogmara Bociek
A fun story about about two renegade capybara who escape from the Toronto Zoo and spend 36 days in freedom before eventually being caught. Based on a true event which the author heard about on the radio while driving to her teaching job. (No lexile measure available).
Jonathan Cleaned Up … Then He Heard a Sound, by Robert Munsch
Admittedly, this is really a picture book for younger kids, but it does takes place in Toronto. It is fun story of a boy who wakes up to discover that there is now a subway stop in his apartment. This is a great foundation for a creative writing project. Learn how the author got inspired here (Lexile 570L) what is this?
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Lucy Maud and Me, by Mary Francis Coady
Set in Toronto in 1942, this book is about a little girl who discovers that her neighbor is none other than her favorite author, Lucy Maud Montgomery. This book would probably be best rest by those who are already familiar with the famous Anne of Green Gables series by Montgomery. (No Lexile measure available)
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The Night They Stole the Stanley Cup, by Roy MacGregor
An easy read, intended for kids who like hockey and want some adventure. The Screech Owls hockey team heads to Toronto for a tournament. While there, they overhear two guys who plan to steal the Stanley Cup, the most famous trophy in hockey, and work to foil their plans.
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Great Cities of the World: Explore Toronto, by Patricia Hutchison
A general overview of the city, along with photos, a map and timeline.