Reason for Reading: Read aloud to my son for our history
curriculum.
First, I'm shocked just now looking the book up online to find out
that they've let this title go out of print. It has been a
favourite in our house and I've read it to both my children (11
years apart). This is a wonderful book that captures the excitement
of a country trying to choose it's own flag for the first time.
Prior to the maple leaf Canada flew either the Union Jack or the
Red Ensign, both British flags, depending on the circumstances. As
soon as you open the book on the inside front cover is a nice big
outline of a maple leaf that can be traced or photocopied so
children can make their own flags or artwork without having to
struggle trying to draw their own leaf. This was much appreciated
with my first son!
The book starts off with why Canada's flag is unique and takes a
look at some other unique country flags. Then we get a history of
flags going back to ancient times and "vexiloids" up to the Vikings
and their triangular flags and the Native Americans and their
feathers tied to poles. Historically we see all the flags that were
flown over Canada before she had her own flag from John Cabot's St.
George Cross to the American Stars & Stripes on the illegal
trading forts in Alberta. Afterwards it discusses the whole
historical story of how Canada came about her famous Maple Leaf and
flag etiquette. The book finishes off with a look and description
of the symbols on all 13 of Canada's provincial and territorial
flags (and yes, that does mean Nunavut is included).
An interesting book, well-written, with an entertaining voice, and
colourful with great illustration. A great book for Canadian
households with children, if you can find a copy. This one will be
a keeper on my shelves!