My Street Remembers
New in September 2025
Better Paths series
For ages 3 and up
Groundwood Books
Written by Karen Krossing
Illustrated by Cathie Jamieson
The story begins 14,000 years ago, when mammoths roamed the icefields, and the First Peoples followed their trail. Historically accurate illustrations show the lives of their descendants over thousands of years as they hunted and gathered food, built homes and celebrated together, until the 1600s, when Europeans arrived with settlers in their wake.
In lyrical text, the street remembers agreements to live in peace, the efforts of the British to take the land with unfair treaties, and the conflict and suffering that followed. The street recalls its naming, paving and the waves of immigrants who called it home. Illustrations of recent times depict Canada’s apology to Indigenous Peoples and efforts toward Truth and Reconciliation, including a march with a banner that reads: Every Child Matters.
This rich collaboration between author Karen Krossing, of White settler descent, and Anishinaabe artist Cathie Jamieson ends with a question that readers anywhere can ask: What does your street remember?
The Better Paths series explores our relationship and reconciliation with the natural world.
Awards and Lists
Finalist for the 2025 Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Canadian Picture Book Award
2025 Telling Tales Reading List
CBC Books Canadian Kids’ Books Fall 2025
Media Interviews and Blog Posts
CBC Radio “Here and Now” Interview with Karen Krossing
CBC Radio “Up North” Interview with Cathie Jamieson and Karen Krossing
Reflections on Truth and Reconciliation with Cathie Jamieson and Karen Krossing
Process Talk: Karen Krossing on My Street Remembers
Interview with Karen Krossing (by Debbie Ridpath Ohi)
Reviews
“This addition to the Better Path series examines the relationship between humans and the natural world…, unfolding like a visual timeline that drives home the area’s history. A thoughtful overview and reflection on the life and legacy of a busy street.”
Booklist
“A historical account with a wholly original perspective, imbued with a crucial environmental message.”
Kirkus Reviews
“A story about people and places, My Street Remembers by Karen Krossing and Cathie Jamieson is an act of reconciliation…. [T]his is the story of many streets across Turtle Island.”
Storytime With Stephanie
“Expressive text is beautifully enhanced by vibrant bold imagery – captivating readers of any age! Highly recommended for cross curricular studies.”
Karen Upper, Librarian, Near North District School Board
“A powerful and beautifully told story, My Street Remembers offers a sweeping journey through time, tracing the deep and layered history of Danforth Avenue in Toronto.”
Natalia Paruzel-Gibson, Author
“From 14000 years ago, through many tumultuous years, then to the modern age, this engaging and thoughtful picture book will make kids think differently about what’s under their feet. Loved it!”
Andy Tolson, Author
“A useful deep dive for kiddos questioning their physical place in the world.”
Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“[Jamieson’s illustrations] are rich in symbolism and complement the pared-down text in which Krossing offers her own history with the land as a stand-in for many of our own…. [A]n invitation for further learning.”
Quill & Quire
“Invite[s] careful consideration of development over time.”
Sal’s Fiction Addiction Blog
“My Street Remembers cleverly covers 14,000 years of history of one city street, impressing on young readers that the land we live on holds many stories.”
Top Grade: CanLit for the Classroom
“My Street Remembers is more than a book, it’s a bridge between past and present, a gentle call to listen, learn, and honour. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply a curious soul, this book deserves a place on your shelf and in your heart.”
Momma Braga
“Local history comes alive when we think back to who lived on the land before our houses were built.”
Winnipeg Free Press
“This book is a strong addition to public and school libraries as a way to encourage discussion about colonialism, reconciliation, and immigration.”
Quebec Library Association
“My Street Remembers is a must-read in classrooms because…this is the very best picture book that brings to life the message of land acknowledgements that invite us to remember and respect all those who lived on the Traditional Territories of many Nations.”
Larry Swartz, Educator, Ontario Institute for Studies
“In clear, age-appropriate language, My Street Remembers acknowledges injustices and harm, and invites us to do better. This is a gorgeous, moving story for readers of all ages.”
Erin Dalton, Huckleberry Books, Quill & Quire Notable Books 2025
“Local history comes alive when we think back to who lived on the land before our houses were built.”
Harriet Zaidman, Winnipeg Free Press, A Best Book of 2025
“My Street Remembers is the result of distinct cultural identities and the sharing of perspectives. The book ends with the line, ‘What does your street remember?’ But the question is really an introduction, an invitation to readers to discover the diverse communities of their neighbourhood—past, present and future.”
Book News, Canadian Children’s Book Centre