FOLD Kids Book Fest // November 5-9, 2024

ABOUT FOLD KIDS BOOK FEST

The first Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) was presented May 2016 to celebrate underrepresented authors and storytellers in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. In 2019, the FOLD expanded to include a literary festival dedicated to young audiences -- connecting children, youth and educators with a diverse range of incredible children’s book authors and illustrators. 

Since 2022, FOLD Kids Book Fest has evolved to include over 20 events – some virtual and some in-person – designed to engage readers, inspire writers and empower educators by connecting them with a diverse range of important voices and useful resources. 

In 2024, the festival will host live virtual events designed for classrooms and educators from November 5-9. Events for classrooms and educators will take place on November 5-7 in our Virtual Clubhouse; live in-person events will be held in Brampton from November 7-9 at various locations. All virtual events, and select in-person events, will be available to watch on-demand until December 9, 2024.

For more about the FOLD and FOLD Kids Book Fest, visit thefoldcanada.org/kids.

Festival Schedule

time iconFriday, Nov 1 09:00

It Bears Repeating: Storytime with Tanya Tagaq

speaker headshot

Tanya Tagaq

In this bonus storytime event, author and Inuk performer Tanya Tagaq reads from her new picture book, It Bears Repeating.

Grades K - 3.

time iconFriday, Nov 1 09:00

From Novel to Comic: Drawing The Baby-sitters Club with Arley Nopra

speaker headshot

Arley Nopra

The bestselling series The Baby-sitters Clubis available as a graphic novel series! In this bonus event, artist Arley Nopra guides kids through the process she followed converting Claudia and the Bad Joke from a chapter book into a middle grade graphic novel. This event is sponsored by Scholastic Canada.

Grades 4 - 7.

time iconFriday, Nov 1 09:00

On Friendship and Writing with Jen Ferguson and Cheryl Isaacs

speaker headshot

Jen Ferguson

speaker headshot

Cheryl Isaacs

Authors Jen Ferguson (A Constellation of Minor Bears) and Cheryl Isaacs (The Unfinished) are not just writers, they're also friends! In this bonus event, they discuss their friendship, what it's like writing alone and together, and navigating the publishing industry.

Grades 9 - 11.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 09:00

Writers Are Superstars with Kern Carter

speaker headshot

Kern Carter

Join us for an incredible writing workshop as Kern Carter (Is There a Boy Like Me?) shares the secrets to writing amazing stories. Discover how to create your own tales—from imagining fun characters to crafting thrilling plots. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have written your very own short story. Get ready to unleash your creativity and become a superstar writer! This event is sponsored by Shcolastic Canada.

Grades 6 - 8.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 09:00

ASL Storytime with Gaitrie Persaud

speaker headshot

Gaitrie Persaud

In this annual storytelling event, Deaf artist and actress Gaitrie Persaud presents the incredible children’s book Archie Celebrates an Indian Wedding by Mitali Banerjee Ruths and Parwinder Singh in American Sign Language (ASL). Suitable for children of all ages, this ASL storytelling event provides viewers with an opportunity to learn a few signs as they discover the art of storytelling. Oral translation will be provided by an ASL interpreter.

Grades K - 3.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 10:00

Let's Draw! with Noha Eilouti

speaker headshot

Noha Eilouti

In this art workshop, illustrator Noha Eilouti (We Are Palestinian) leads young artists step-by-step in the creation of an incredible work of art. Get out your paper and pencil for some drawing fun, and bring a question or two to ask Noha!

Grades 4 - 6.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 11:00

The Making of a Graphic Novel with Adam de Souza

speaker headshot

Adam de Souza

Writer and illustrator Adam de Souza shares how he took his graphic novel, The Gulf, from idea to published book in this comics based event that explores the journey of a career in comics.

Grades 8 - 11.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 01:30 pm

Storytime with Dorothy Ellen Palmer

speaker headshot

Dorothy Ellen Palmer

Author Dorothy Ellen Palmer reads from her picture book, The Scooter Twins, which follows the journey of two siblings getting their very own mobility scooters. The reading will be followed by an activity.

Grades K - 3.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 05:00 pm

Alone Together: Exploring Loneliness in the Classroom

speaker headshot

Petti Fong

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on loneliness and socialization. In this workshop designed for educators, Petti Fong—journalist, educator, and author (Alone Together)—explores the effects of loneliness and provides helpful tools for educators tackling this issue in the classroom. This event is sponsored by Orca Book Publishers.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 07:30 pm

Fantastical Tales in Pakistan

speaker headshot

M.T. Khan

speaker headshot

Emily Varga

speaker headshot

Ameema Saeed

In this evening conversation, authors M.T. Khan (Amir and the Jinn Princess) and Emily Varga (For She is Wrath) explore two fantastical Pakistans: one existing parallel to the world of jinn and the other inspires a romantic fantasy retelling of a literary classic, The Count of Monte Cristo. They'll discuss worldbuilding, character motivations and writing for teen and middle grade audiences with moderator Ameema Saeed.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 09:00

A Pet Rock Project with Ashley Qilavaq-Savard

speaker headshot

Ashley Qilavaq-Savard

Author Ashley Qilavaq-Savard shows kids how to make a pet rock of their own in this storybook event based on her latest picture book, I Am a Rock. Participants are recommended to have the following materials to follow along: a rock, googly eyes, glue, beads, pipe cleaners and pom poms. Paint is optional!

Grades K - 3.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 10:00 am

Roll for Initiative! Storytelling Through Role-playing with Victoria Koops

speaker headshot

Victoria Koops

In this teen event, author Victoria Koops (Who We Are in Real Life) leads teens through a writing workshop inspired by tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons. Come prepared with a pen and paper, and your imagination!

Grades 9 - 11

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 11:00

How to Bake a Yummy Story

speaker headshot

Shenaaz G. Nanji

Did you know that storytelling and baking have a lot in common? They both rely on a careful recipe of ingredients to create a delicious treat. In this storytelling workshop, author Shenaaz G. Nanji (Alina in the Deep) unpacks important tips on baking an incredible story.

Grades 4 - 6.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 01:30 pm

The Illustrator Battle

speaker headshot

Noha Eilouti

speaker headshot

Ardo Omer

speaker headshot

Chelsea Charles

speaker headshot

Kevin Sylvester

speaker headshot

Marty Chan

Our highly anticipated, annual illustrator event returns with a new crop of artists who will battle it out from their own drawing tables. This not-to-be missed interactive virtual event includes hilarious challenges featuring Canadian illustrators Noha Eilouti, Kevin Sylvester and our Illustrator-in-Residence Chelsea Charles. Join host Ardo Omer and special guest Marty Chan for this not-to-be-missed showcase of artistic talent. This event is sponsored by Penguin Random House Canada.

Grades 5 - 8.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 05:00 pm

Talking to Students About Disability

speaker headshot

Dorothy Ellen Palmer

In this workshop designed for educators, disabled author and retired teacher Dorothy Ellen Palmer (The Scooter Twins) provides meaningful tools for discussing disabilities with students and how to teach books featuring disabled characters.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 07:30 pm

Reimagining Anne: Celebrating 150 years of LM Montgomery

speaker headshot

Paul Coccia

speaker headshot

Matthew Dawkins

speaker headshot

Natasha Deen

speaker headshot

Catherine Little

This year marks the 150th birthday of iconic Canadian author of Anne of Green Gables, LM Montgomery. In this evening event, authors Paul Coccia, Matthew Dawkins and Natasha Deen discuss their reimaginings of Anne Shirley in The ANNEthology with moderator Catherine Little (Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill).

time iconThursday, Nov 7 09:00

The Writer's Life with Anton Treuer

speaker headshot

Anton Treuer

speaker headshot

Ardo Omer

The Writer's Life series focuses on the writer's journey. In this year's segment, author Anton Treuer (Where Wolves Don't Die) discusses the process behind writing his first novel and how he became a Professor of Ojibwe. From how he became a writer of fiction to being part of preserving and revitalizing an Indigenous language, students will learn there are many paths to publishing.

Grades 9 - 11.

time iconThursday, Nov 7 10:00

Telling Tales with Natasha Deen

speaker headshot

Natasha Deen

In this session, author Natasha Deen shares what she loves about writing mysteries and what inspired her to write her latest book in the Lark Ba Detective series: Lark Goes the Distance.

Grades 4 - 6.

time iconThursday, Nov 7 11:00

Alone Together with Petti Fong

speaker headshot

Petti Fong

What's the difference between being alone and being LONELY? How do you handle the feeling of loneliness, and are you alone in that experience? Using her book, Alone Together, as a guide, author and educator Petti Fong explores effective ways to navigate loneliness for kids. This event is sponsored by Orca Book Publishers.

Grades 6 - 9

time iconThursday, Nov 7 01:30 pm

A Remembrance Day Storytime with Maidah Ahmad

speaker headshot

Maidah Ahmad

In this storytime event, author Maidah Ahmad reads from her picture book, Muhammad's Recipe for Remembering, which explores the story of a Muslim boy rediscovering his family's history in the World Wars as part of Remembrance Day. The reading will be followed by an activity from the book.

Grades K - 3.

time iconThursday, Nov 7 6:30 pm

Come Read with Me: A Storytime Pajama Party (IN-PERSON)

Come in your pajamas and bring your favourite stuffie as local celebrity readers share some of our favourite picture books at our annual read-a-loud storytelling event at Brampton Library's Gore Meadows branch.

Designed for ages 4 - 10.

time iconFriday, Nov 8 10:00am

Music and Movement at Gore Meadows (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Bridgeway Family Centre - EarlyON

Join us for a special, interactive music and dance event for little readers based on two picture books, written and illustrated by Indigenous authors/illustrators: Counting at Kits Beach by Oliver Moss Warawa McDonald and My Heart Fills With Happiness by Monique Gray Smith and Julie Flett. This event, designed for families with young children (birth to 6 years), develops physical coordination, social skills, and creative expression, and is presented in cooperation with BridgeWay Family Centre (EarlyON) and FOLD Kids Book Fest. This event is drop-in, pre-registration is not required. It takes place at Brampton Library's Gore Meadows branch.

Designed for ages 0 - 6.

time iconFriday, Nov 8 10:00 am

Simone, Half and Half: Live Theatre at Lester B Pearson Theatre (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Carousel Players

Join us for a live theatre performance of Carousel Player’s Simone, Half and Half at Lester B Pearson Theatre!

Fourteen-year-old Simone is caught between cultures: Canadian, Québécois, and Trinidadian. She’s also torn between friends and the projects they want her to take part in. Can Simone find the courage to stand up for what she believes in? Will her friends accept the choices she makes? And will she finally learn to be more comfortable with herself? Simone, Half and Half is a touching story about finding one’s place between identities and communities.

70 mins

School group event designed for Grades 6 - 8.

time iconFriday, Nov 8 7:00pm

Teen Spoken Word Showcase (IN-PERSON)

Join us at Susan Fennell Youth Hub for our annual Teen Spoken Word Showcase for a much-anticipated night of performances. Youth ages 14+ can sign up for a spot on stage and share their poetic verses alongside incredible guest poets.  Registration opens November 2.

Designed for ages 14+.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 10:00 am

The Opening Parade (IN-PERSON)

March with us in our opening parade! Meet at the arena-end of the Gore Meadows Community Centre for live drumming then join the procession as we make our way to Brampton Library's Gore Meadows branch for the opening of our first Community Day event. This event is sponsored by Peel Elementary Teachers' Local.

All Ages.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 10:30 am

Storytime Fun with FOLD Kids Authors (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Sarabeth Holden

speaker headshot

Sahar Golshan

speaker headshot

Mahak Jain

speaker headshot

Rukhsana Khan

Join us for a full day of incredible storytime presentations from authors and special guests at the Brampton Library’s Gore Meadows Branch.

10:30 am | Sarabeth Holden

11:30 am | Sahar Golshan

2:00 pm |Mahak Jain

3:00 pm | Rukhsana Khan

Designed for ages 4 - 11.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 11:00am

Escape Brampton Library with Basil and Kevin Sylvester (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Kevin Sylvester

speaker headshot

Basil Sylvester

Escape the library! Set in the Gore Meadows library branch, authors Basil and Kevin Sylvester have crafted an escape group experience inspired by their middle grade novel, Night of the Living Zed. The escape room will begin in the library and end in the community centre. Register in advance and arrive 10 minutes ahead of time to ensure a spot. Space is limited.

Registration opens October 25.

Designed for ages 8 - 13.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 11:00am

Today I Am: An Art Workshop with PAMA (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA)

Using different artistic techniques, kids are encouraged to create artwork inspired by the book Today I Am edited by Jael Richardson at this all-day drop-in art event (11AM - 4PM ET) facilitated by Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives.

All Ages.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 11:30am

Storytime at EarlyON with Sarabeth Holden (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Sarabeth Holden

speaker headshot

Bridgeway Family Centre - EarlyON

IIn this storytime event, join author Sarabeth Holden as she reads from her board book, Please Don't Change My Diaper! Storytime events offer the opportunity to hear stories read from local authors themselves. This event is drop-in, pre-registration is not required. It takes place at EarlyON Gore Meadows location (10100 The Gore Road, Brampton).

Designed for ages 0-6.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 12:30pm

Adventures in Space with Ontario Science Centre (IN-PERSON)

Help an astronaut fly to space! Join experts from the Ontario Science Centre to explore the wonders of our solar system and learn all about space travel with fun science experiments and activities. Registration in advance is encouraged to ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted.

Designed for ages 8-13.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 2:00pm

Kids Discovery Club with FOLD Kids Book Fest (IN-PERSON)

Science + technology + engineering + art + math = STEAM! Participate in fun STEAM challenges every week. You'll receive codewords to enter in our online challenge for the chance to win prizes. Saturday, November 9th will be inspired by the book, The Bee Mother by Hetxw’ms Gyetxw Brett D. Huson and Natasha Donovan, as part of FOLD Kids Book Fest.

Designed for ages 6 - 12.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 2:00pm

Brainstorm Bonanza: A Writing Workshop with Ripple Foundation (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Ripple Foundation

In this workshop designed for budding writers ages 8-14, participants will learn how to brainstorm story ideas effectively with Ripple Foundation writing instructors. Registration in advance is encouraged. Arrive 10 minutes ahead of time to ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted if there's space.

Registration opens October 25.

Designed for Grades 4-8.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 3:00pm

Food Art with Flo Leung (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Flo Leung

In this art-based workshop, author and food illustrator Flo Leung (The Blue Bowl) guides kids through making food inspired artwork of their own. Registration in advance is encouraged. Arrive 10 minutes ahead of time to ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted if there's space.

Registration opens October 25.

Designed for ages 6+.

time iconFriday, Nov 1 09:00

It Bears Repeating: Storytime with Tanya Tagaq

speaker headshot

Tanya Tagaq

In this bonus storytime event, author and Inuk performer Tanya Tagaq reads from her new picture book, It Bears Repeating.

Grades K - 3.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 09:00

ASL Storytime with Gaitrie Persaud

speaker headshot

Gaitrie Persaud

In this annual storytelling event, Deaf artist and actress Gaitrie Persaud presents the incredible children’s book Archie Celebrates an Indian Wedding by Mitali Banerjee Ruths and Parwinder Singh in American Sign Language (ASL). Suitable for children of all ages, this ASL storytelling event provides viewers with an opportunity to learn a few signs as they discover the art of storytelling. Oral translation will be provided by an ASL interpreter.

Grades K - 3.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 13:30

Storytime with Dorothy Ellen Palmer

speaker headshot

Dorothy Ellen Palmer

Author Dorothy Ellen Palmer reads from her picture book, The Scooter Twins, which follows the journey of two siblings getting their very own mobility scooters. The reading will be followed by an activity.

Grades K - 3.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 09:00

A Pet Rock Project with Ashley Qilavaq-Savard

speaker headshot

Ashley Qilavaq-Savard

Author Ashley Qilavaq-Savard shows kids how to make a pet rock of their own in this storybook event based on her latest picture book, I Am a Rock. Participants are recommended to have the following materials to follow along: a rock, googly eyes, glue, beads, pipe cleaners and pom poms. Paint is optional!

Grades K - 3.

time iconThursday, Nov 7 13:30

A Remembrance Day Storytime with Maidah Ahmad

speaker headshot

Maidah Ahmad

In this storytime event, author Maidah Ahmad reads from her picture book, Muhammad's Recipe for Remembering, which explores the story of a Muslim boy rediscovering his family's history in the World Wars as part of Remembrance Day. The reading will be followed by an activity from the book.

Grades K - 3.

time iconFriday, Nov 1 09:00

From Novel to Comic: Drawing The Baby-sitters Club with Arley Nopra

speaker headshot

Arley Nopra

The bestselling series The Baby-sitters Clubis available as a graphic novel series! In this bonus event, artist Arley Nopra guides kids through the process she followed converting Claudia and the Bad Joke from a chapter book into a middle grade graphic novel. This event is sponsored by Scholastic Canada.

Grades 4 - 7.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 10:00

Let's Draw! with Noha Eilouti

speaker headshot

Noha Eilouti

In this art workshop, illustrator Noha Eilouti (We Are Palestinian) leads young artists step-by-step in the creation of an incredible work of art. Get out your paper and pencil for some drawing fun, and bring a question or two to ask Noha!

Grades 4 - 6.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 11:00

How to Bake a Yummy Story

speaker headshot

Shenaaz G. Nanji

Did you know that storytelling and baking have a lot in common? They both rely on a careful recipe of ingredients to create a delicious treat. In this storytelling workshop, author Shenaaz G. Nanji (Alina in the Deep) unpacks important tips on baking an incredible story.

Grades 4 - 6.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 13:30

The Illustrator Battle

speaker headshot

Noha Eilouti

speaker headshot

Ardo Omer

speaker headshot

Chelsea Charles

speaker headshot

Kevin Sylvester

speaker headshot

Marty Chan

Our highly anticipated, annual illustrator event returns with a new crop of artists who will battle it out from their own drawing tables. This not-to-be missed interactive virtual event includes hilarious challenges featuring Canadian illustrators Noha Eilouti, Kevin Sylvester and our Illustrator-in-Residence Chelsea Charles. Join host Ardo Omer and special guest Marty Chan for this not-to-be-missed showcase of artistic talent. This event is sponsored by Penguin Random House Canada.

Grades 5 - 8.

time iconThursday, Nov 7 10:00

Telling Tales with Natasha Deen

speaker headshot

Natasha Deen

In this session, author Natasha Deen shares what she loves about writing mysteries and what inspired her to write her latest book in the Lark Ba Detective series: Lark Goes the Distance.

Grades 4 - 6.

time iconFriday, Nov 1 09:00

From Novel to Comic: Drawing The Baby-sitters Club with Arley Nopra

speaker headshot

Arley Nopra

The bestselling series The Baby-sitters Clubis available as a graphic novel series! In this bonus event, artist Arley Nopra guides kids through the process she followed converting Claudia and the Bad Joke from a chapter book into a middle grade graphic novel. This event is sponsored by Scholastic Canada.

Grades 4 - 7.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 09:00

Writers Are Superstars with Kern Carter

speaker headshot

Kern Carter

Join us for an incredible writing workshop as Kern Carter (Is There a Boy Like Me?) shares the secrets to writing amazing stories. Discover how to create your own tales—from imagining fun characters to crafting thrilling plots. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have written your very own short story. Get ready to unleash your creativity and become a superstar writer! This event is sponsored by Shcolastic Canada.

Grades 6 - 8.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 11:00

The Making of a Graphic Novel with Adam de Souza

speaker headshot

Adam de Souza

Writer and illustrator Adam de Souza shares how he took his graphic novel, The Gulf, from idea to published book in this comics based event that explores the journey of a career in comics.

Grades 8 - 11.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 01:30 pm

The Illustrator Battle

speaker headshot

Noha Eilouti

speaker headshot

Ardo Omer

speaker headshot

Chelsea Charles

speaker headshot

Kevin Sylvester

speaker headshot

Marty Chan

Our highly anticipated, annual illustrator event returns with a new crop of artists who will battle it out from their own drawing tables. This not-to-be missed interactive virtual event includes hilarious challenges featuring Canadian illustrators Noha Eilouti, Kevin Sylvester and our Illustrator-in-Residence Chelsea Charles. Join host Ardo Omer and special guest Marty Chan for this not-to-be-missed showcase of artistic talent. This event is sponsored by Penguin Random House Canada.

Grades 5 - 8

time iconThursday, Nov 7 11:00

Alone Together with Petti Fong

speaker headshot

Petti Fong

What's the difference between being alone and being LONELY? How do you handle the feeling of loneliness, and are you alone in that experience? Using her book, Alone Together, as a guide, author and educator Petti Fong explores effective ways to navigate loneliness for kids. This event is sponsored by Orca Book Publishers.

Grades 6 - 9

time iconFriday, Nov 1 09:00

On Friendship and Writing with Jen Ferguson and Cheryl Isaacs

speaker headshot

Jen Ferguson

speaker headshot

Cheryl Isaacs

Authors Jen Ferguson (A Constellation of Minor Bears) and Cheryl Isaacs (The Unfinished) are not just writers, they're also friends! In this bonus event, they discuss their friendship, what it's like writing alone and together, and navigating the publishing industry.

Grades 9 - 11.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 11:00 am

The Making of a Graphic Novel with Adam de Souza

speaker headshot

Adam de Souza

Writer and illustrator Adam de Souza shares how he took his graphic novel, The Gulf, from idea to published book in this comics based event that explores the journey of a career in comics.

Grades 8 - 11

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 10:00 am

Roll for Initiative! Storytelling Through Role-playing with Victoria Koops

speaker headshot

Victoria Koops

In this teen event, author Victoria Koops (Who We Are in Real Life) leads teens through a writing workshop inspired by tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons. Come prepared with a pen and paper, and your imagination!

Grades 9 - 11

time iconThursday, Nov 7 09:00

The Writer's Life with Anton Treuer

speaker headshot

Anton Treuer

speaker headshot

Ardo Omer

The Writer's Life series focuses on the writer's journey. In this year's segment, author Anton Treuer (Where Wolves Don't Die) discusses the process behind writing his first novel and how he became a Professor of Ojibwe. From how he became a writer of fiction to being part of preserving and revitalizing an Indigenous language, students will learn there are many paths to publishing.

Grades 9 - 11.

time iconThursday, Nov 7 11:00 am

Alone Together with Petti Fong

speaker headshot

Petti Fong

What's the difference between being alone and being LONELY? How do you handle the feeling of loneliness, and are you alone in that experience? Using her book, Alone Together, as a guide, author and educator Petti Fong explores effective ways to navigate loneliness for kids. This event is sponsored by Orca Book Publishers.

Grades 6 - 9

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 5:00 pm

Alone Together: Exploring Loneliness in the Classroom

speaker headshot

Petti Fong

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on loneliness and socialization. In this workshop designed for educators, Petti Fong—journalist, educator, and author (Alone Together)—explores the effects of loneliness and provides helpful tools for educators tackling this issue in the classroom. This event is sponsored by Orca Book Publishers.

time iconTuesday, Nov 5 7:30 pm

Fantastical Tales in Pakistan

speaker headshot

M.T. Khan

speaker headshot

Emily Varga

speaker headshot

Ameema Saeed

In this evening conversation, authors M.T. Khan (Amir and the Jinn Princess) and Emily Varga (For She is Wrath) explore two fantastical Pakistans: one existing parallel to the world of jinn and the other inspires a romantic fantasy retelling of a literary classic, The Count of Monte Cristo. They'll discuss worldbuilding, character motivations and writing for teen and middle grade audiences with moderator Ameema Saeed.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 5:00 pm

Talking to Students About Disability

speaker headshot

Dorothy Ellen Palmer

In this workshop designed for educators, disabled author and retired teacher Dorothy Ellen Palmer (The Scooter Twins) provides meaningful tools for discussing disabilities with students and how to teach books featuring disabled characters.

time iconWednesday, Nov 6 7:30pm

Reimagining Anne: Celebrating 150 years of LM Montgomery

speaker headshot

Paul Coccia

speaker headshot

Matthew Dawkins

speaker headshot

Natasha Deen

speaker headshot

Catherine Little

This year marks the 150th birthday of iconic Canadian author of Anne of Green Gables, LM Montgomery. In this evening event, authors Paul Coccia, Matthew Dawkins and Natasha Deen discuss their reimaginings of Anne Shirley in The ANNEthology with moderator Catherine Little (Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill).

time iconThursday, Nov 7 6:30 pm

Come Read with Me: A Storytime Pajama Party (IN-PERSON)

Come in your pajamas and bring your favourite stuffie as local celebrity readers share some of our favourite picture books at our annual read-a-loud storytelling event at Brampton Library's Gore Meadows branch.

Designed for ages 4 - 10.

time iconFriday, Nov 8 10:00am

Music and Movement at Gore Meadows (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Bridgeway Family Centre - EarlyON

Join us for a special, interactive music and dance event for little readers based on two picture books, written and illustrated by Indigenous authors/illustrators: Counting at Kits Beach by Oliver Moss Warawa McDonald and My Heart Fills With Happiness by Monique Gray Smith and Julie Flett. This event, designed for families with young children (birth to 6 years), develops physical coordination, social skills, and creative expression, and is presented in cooperation with BridgeWay Family Centre (EarlyON) and FOLD Kids Book Fest. This event is drop-in, pre-registration is not required. It takes place at Brampton Library's Gore Meadows branch.

Designed for ages 0 - 6.

time iconFriday, Nov 8 10:00 am

Simone, Half and Half: Live Theatre at Lester B Pearson Theatre (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Carousel Players

Join us for a live theatre performance of Carousel Player’s Simone, Half and Half at Lester B Pearson Theatre!

Fourteen-year-old Simone is caught between cultures: Canadian, Québécois, and Trinidadian. She’s also torn between friends and the projects they want her to take part in. Can Simone find the courage to stand up for what she believes in? Will her friends accept the choices she makes? And will she finally learn to be more comfortable with herself? Simone, Half and Half is a touching story about finding one’s place between identities and communities.

70 mins

School group event designed for Grades 6 - 8.

time iconFriday, Nov 8 7:00pm

Teen Spoken Word Showcase (IN-PERSON)

Join us at Susan Fennell Youth Hub for our annual Teen Spoken Word Showcase for a much-anticipated night of performances. Youth ages 14+ can sign up for a spot on stage and share their poetic verses alongside incredible guest poets.  Registration opens November 2.

Designed for ages 14+.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 10:00 am

The Opening Parade (IN-PERSON)

March with us in our opening parade! Meet at the arena-end of the Gore Meadows Community Centre for live drumming then join the procession as we make our way to Brampton Library's Gore Meadows branch for the opening of our first Community Day event. This event is sponsored by Peel Elementary Teachers' Local.

All Ages.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 10:30 am

Storytime Fun with FOLD Kids Authors (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Sarabeth Holden

speaker headshot

Sahar Golshan

speaker headshot

Mahak Jain

speaker headshot

Rukhsana Khan

Join us for a full day of incredible storytime presentations from authors and special guests at the Brampton Library’s Gore Meadows Branch.

10:30 am | Sarabeth Holden

11:30 am | Sahar Golshan

2:00 pm |Mahak Jain

3:00 pm | Rukhsana Khan

Designed for ages 4 - 11.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 11:00am

Escape Brampton Library with Basil and Kevin Sylvester (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Kevin Sylvester

speaker headshot

Basil Sylvester

Escape the library! Set in the Gore Meadows library branch, authors Basil and Kevin Sylvester have crafted an escape group experience inspired by their middle grade novel, Night of the Living Zed. The escape room will begin in the library and end in the community centre. Register in advance and arrive 10 minutes ahead of time to ensure a spot. Space is limited.

Registration opens October 25.

Designed for ages 8 - 13.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 11:00am

Today I Am: An Art Workshop with PAMA (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA)

Using different artistic techniques, kids are encouraged to create artwork inspired by the book Today I Am edited by Jael Richardson at this all-day drop-in art event (11AM - 4PM ET) facilitated by Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives.

All Ages.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 11:30am

Storytime at EarlyON with Sarabeth Holden (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Sarabeth Holden

speaker headshot

Bridgeway Family Centre - EarlyON

IIn this storytime event, join author Sarabeth Holden as she reads from her board book, Please Don't Change My Diaper! Storytime events offer the opportunity to hear stories read from local authors themselves. This event is drop-in, pre-registration is not required. It takes place at EarlyON Gore Meadows location (10100 The Gore Road, Brampton).

Designed for ages 0-6.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 12:30pm

Adventures in Space with Ontario Science Centre (IN-PERSON)

Help an astronaut fly to space! Join experts from the Ontario Science Centre to explore the wonders of our solar system and learn all about space travel with fun science experiments and activities. Registration in advance is encouraged to ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted.

Designed for ages 8-13.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 2:00pm

Kids Discovery Club with FOLD Kids Book Fest (IN-PERSON)

Science + technology + engineering + art + math = STEAM! Participate in fun STEAM challenges every week. You'll receive codewords to enter in our online challenge for the chance to win prizes. Saturday, November 9th will be inspired by the book, The Bee Mother by Hetxw’ms Gyetxw Brett D. Huson and Natasha Donovan, as part of FOLD Kids Book Fest.

Designed for ages 6 - 12.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 2:00pm

Brainstorm Bonanza: A Writing Workshop with Ripple Foundation (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Ripple Foundation

In this workshop designed for budding writers ages 8-14, participants will learn how to brainstorm story ideas effectively with Ripple Foundation writing instructors. Registration in advance is encouraged. Arrive 10 minutes ahead of time to ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted if there's space.

Registration opens October 25.

Designed for Grades 4-8.

time iconSaturday, Nov 9 3:00pm

Food Art with Flo Leung (IN-PERSON)

speaker headshot

Flo Leung

In this art-based workshop, author and food illustrator Flo Leung (The Blue Bowl) guides kids through making food inspired artwork of their own. Registration in advance is encouraged. Arrive 10 minutes ahead of time to ensure a seat. Walk-ins accepted if there's space.

Registration opens October 25.

Designed for ages 6+.

Frequently Asked Questions

FOLD Kids Book Fest runs November 5-9 and includes both virtual and in-person events. Our Virtual Clubhouse will host live virtual events from November 5-7, accessible with a virtual pass. In-person events will take place November 7-9. While most of the in-person events are free, pre-registration is encouraged for all events.
To attend events in our Virtual Clubhouse attendees need to purchase a virtual pass. Most in-person events are free but registration is encouraged and, in some cases, required.
Most in-person events are free, but registered is encouraged, and in some cases required, in order to ensure proper and safe seating. For paid events, payment is required at the time of purchase. In addition to our weekend events, on November 8, FOLD Kids Book Fest will host its first in-person field trip event at Lester B. Pearson Theatre. To book tickets for a class, call the Brampton On Stage Box Office at 905-874-2800 or email boxoffice@brampton.ca.
A virtual pass costs $25 and allows you access to our Virtual Clubhouse, which includes an interactive scavenger hunt, live events, on-demand events and more. For a group of tickets for five or more, email the FOLD for bulk pass rates. Some boards are purchasing a board pass, which allows teachers to register, free of charge, with their board-assigned code. Peel District School Board teachers should check their message board for their registration code.
For bulk orders, email FOLD Executive Director, Jael Richardson, at director@thefoldcanada.org.
Virtual passholders get access to our Virtual Clubhouse, which includes an auditorium featuring more than twenty virtual events especially designed for educators and students grades 1-12. The clubhouse also includes an Exhibit Hall with exclusive access to book publishers and resources, and a customized resource room for additional support material. All virtual passholders will receive a festival book list and will have access to an educator resource guide, which provides pre- and post-event activities four school group events.
Board-wide passes allow educators access to the Virtual Clubhouse for the entire school year. We try to keep an updated list on our website at thefoldcanada.org/educators and we make announcements on social media. Last day to purchase a board-wide pass is October 15.
You can login to the Virtual Clubhouse for the first time as soon as you register. However, features like the Exhibit Hall and the Resource Room will not open until November 1. Live virtual events will begin on November 4 and will run until November 7 – although you’ll be able to access them until December 5. Educators with a board pass will have access for the entire school year. For live events, we recommend logging in to the Virtual Clubhouse 10 mins before the event. The event will go live (meaning you’ll be able to click on the event video via a JOIN button) roughly 2 mins before start time to give people time to enter.
Many of our virtual events are initially offered live – meaning they become available on a specific day at a specific time and include the opportunity to chat live with other attendees, the hosts, and the authors. On-demand events are events are pre-recorded and will be available as soon as the Clubhouse opens. All virtual events can be watched and re-watched as on-demand events until December 9 with a standard virtual pass. Educators who are part of a board-wide pass will have access to on-demand events until June 30, 2025. If I can’t attend a virtual event live, will I be able to access the videos afterward? Anyone with a virtual pass will be able to watch all of the on-demand videos until December 9, 2024. Educators who are part of a board-wide pass will have access to on-demand events until June 30, 2025.
Here is a book list that includes a list of all of the authors and titles appearing at this year’s festival. Head to our virtual book seller, Tinlids, to purchase all or a portion of the list. Proceeds go towards the festival.
If the cost of an in-person ticket and/or a virtual pass is prohibitive, please fill out the Patron Pass form, and a virtual pass will be made available.
If you’ve registered for a virtual pass and you’re having trouble logging in, email our Virtual Clubhouse tech support team at foldkids@getvfairs.io
The FOLD relies heavily on the support of individual donors. If you have the means, please consider becoming a monthly donor and donating $20, $50 or $100/month to the work of the FOLD through Canada Helps, which will provide you with a charitable receipt.

Sponsors

m

Follow Us

Follow us on social media