This popular one-stop reference to the national flag of Canada has been
updated and revised. Ann-Maureen Owens and Jane Yealland start with
basic background on all the different flags that have flown over
Canadian land, and why they flew there. They then turn to the
fascinating play-by-play of how today's beloved maple leaf flag design
came to be --- including how some government leaders took a personal
interest in the design, as well as how ordinary Canadians were given the
opportunity to weigh in with their own ideas. The authors further round
out the flag topic with illustrations and descriptions of Canadian
provincial flags, flag designs from other countries and a brief recap of
how people have used flags throughout history. There are two craft
activities, perfect for classroom use: one for making a Canadian flag
and its flagpole, and one for creating international code signal flags.
The lively, colorful art throughout the book, by Bill Slavin and
Esperança Melo, brings the text to life and keeps it interesting and
absorbing for young readers. Because the story of Canada's flag so
closely follows the story of Canada's history, this title is a natural
fit for any Canadian studies class or any social studies unit on the
design and importance of national flags. There is also a map of Canada,
providing a visual geography tool. The full index at the back and a list
of internet sites for further information add to the usefulness of this
unique resource.