Science Writers and Communicators of Canada Book Awards
Harbour Publishing is pleased to announce that two of their titles have been longlisted for the 2023 Science Writers and Communicators of Canada Book Awards: A Kid’s Guide to Plants of the Pacific Northwest by Philippa Joly and The Science and Superpowers of Seaweed by Amanda Swinimer. The award was founded to recognize the richness and diversity of science writing in Canada, and this year’s longlist includes over 50 titles. Winners will be announced in September 2024 during Science Literacy Week. More information is available on their website.
A Kid’s Guide to Plants of the Pacific Northwest: with Cool Facts, Activities and Recipes is a middle-grade-friendly introduction to Pacific Northwest flora, with outdoor activities, games and quizzes that make learning about nature fun. Time spent outdoors encourages children’s self-confidence and independence, increases attention span and physical well-being, and fosters care for the environment. In today’s TikTok world, it has never been more essential for parents and educators to encourage kids to engage with their natural environment.
Philippa Joly is a clinical and community herbalist, paramedic and outdoor educator aside from being an author. She runs an outdoor school for kids and leads workshops on herbal medicine, plant identification, ethical wildcrafting, herbal first aid, local healing plants and anti-colonial approaches to wellness. She lives on Denman Island, BC, with her daughter and their cat.
The Science and Superpowers of Seaweed: A Guide for Kids is a middle-grade and family-friendly introduction to the enchanting world of seaweed. Young readers will be delighted to learn about the wonderful, watery world of seaweed, and how to turn the plant into tasty snacks like Nori crisps. The colourful, activity-packed book explores the science of seaweed, showing how to sustainably harvest and use the plant in recipes and crafts while providing fun and interesting facts about marine plants and animals.
Amanda Swinimer holds a bachelor of science degree from Dalhousie University with an advanced major in Marine Biology. She operates a local business, Dakini Tidal Wilds, hand-harvesting wild seaweed from the beaches and kelp forests surrounding her home. She also hosts workshops and presentations for educators, children, and adults. She lives on the west coast of Vancouver Island, BC, with her two daughters.