• Age: 9 to 12
• Grade: 4 to 8

A moving #OwnVoices poetry collection written by young newcomers to Canada
Carry On began in a high school in Outremont, Quebec, where author and poet Simon Boulerice conducted creative-writing workshops for young newcomers to Canada. As the students began writing, their poems gave voice to their reflections on leaving family, friends, and countries of origin to make new homes and connections in their new home, Canada.
Paired with expressive portraits by award-winning artist Rogé, each young writer reflects on the experience of leaving one home for another. The collection of poems express feelings of anxiety, sorrow, anticipation, gratitude, and hope for the future. With thoughtful verse and evocative illustrations, Carry On is a tribute to human resilience, the voices of newcomers, and creating empathy for all those who wonder about their place in the world.

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is among the world’s leading museums of natural history and world cultures. It is located in Toronto, Ontario.

Various contributors' profile page

ROGÉ is the illustrator of more than twenty books for kids, and the recipient of several awards, including a Governor General’s Award for illustration in 2006 for The Big Monster Who Loved Reading Too Much, a New York Times book award, and many more. He divides his time between the Magdalen Islands and Montreal, Quebec.

Rogé Girard's profile page

• Commended, USBBY Outstanding International Books List
• Commended, NCTE Notable Poetry Book
• Joint winner, Skipping Stones Book Awards
• Commended, Best Books for Kids and Teens
• Winner, Ontario Library Association Top Ten Best Bets List

"A compelling look at the lives and feelings of student immigrants... A strong choice."

School Library Journal

"This collection can serve as a model for similar writing endeavors with immigrant communities or simply as a way for recent immigrants to process their own journeys."

Booklist

"Carry On not only gives the metaphorical microphone to those with lived experiences, but also reinforces the idea that an immigrant or refugee doesn’t look a certain way."

The Tiny Activist

"It was amazing to read all the different places the students were coming from and trying to picture their experience."

Youth Services Book Review

"A sensitive and heartfelt voicing of the immigrant experience."

Kirkus Reviews

"Showcases the diverse perspectives of young immigrants... Small but mighty."

Quill & Quire