STORIES THAT INSPIRE YOUNG READERS
Ted Staunton is an award-winning Canadian author from Port Hope, Ontario, with more than 50 books for children and young adults. Through engaging stories, school presentations and writing workshops, he inspires students to read, write and explore their creativity. His books and school visits have connected with readers, students and educators across Canada for decades.
Author visits, school presentations and workshops are available across Canada.
Ted Staunton wrote his first story as a university class assignment. He nearly missed the deadline, but the result became Puddleman—the first step in a career that has grown to more than fifty books for children and young adults.
Today, Ted writes everything from picture books and early readers to middle-grade adventures, young adult novels, graphic novels and non-fiction. His work includes titles in the popular SEVEN and Almost Epic Squad series, Friends for Real, It Seemed Like a Good Idea, and The Good Fight, bringing humour, imagination and memorable characters to readers across Canada.
A trained teacher and engaging presenter, Ted visits schools, libraries and literary events nationwide, sharing his passion for reading, writing and storytelling through interactive presentations and workshops. He also teaches creative writing at George Brown College and has worked with writers and editors internationally, including several projects in Ethiopia.
His books have received numerous honours, including the CCBC John Spray Mystery Award, with nominations for the Silver Birch, Red Maple, Hackmatack, Arthur Ellis and BC Stellar awards. Many have also been selected for CCBC Our Choice lists.
When he’s not writing, Ted can often be found with a guitar or banjo in hand, performing with the Maple Leaf Champions Jug Band, reading a great book or planning his next story from his home in Port Hope, Ontario.
"Staunton's tongue-in-cheek text displays both great respect for the imagination of children and affection for his characters." (Harry and Clare’s Amazing Staycation) — Kirkus Reviews
Explore Ted Staunton’s books, awards, literary contributions and professional affiliations that have shaped his Canadian writing career.
1983 — Puddleman published, Ted’s first picture book
1986–1991 — Maggie and Cyril series
1997–2016 — The Morgan Series
1998 — Hope Springs a Leak
2000–2005 — Monkey Mountain series
2011 — Power Chord and Ace’s Basement
2012 — Jump Cut, Coda and Speed (SEVEN series)
2013 — Who I’m Not
2017 — Bounced
2017 — POV
2017 — Harry and Clare’s Amazing Staycation
2019 — What Blows Up
2019 — The Almost Epic Squad
2020 — Friends for Real
2020 — It Seemed Like a Good Idea
2021 — The Good Fight
2026 — Comic Shift nominated for the Silver Birch Award
2000 — Hackmatack Award Finalist — Hope Springs a Leak
2000 — Silver Birch Award Finalist — Hope Springs a Leak
2002 — CLA Outstanding Children’s Book Long List — Two False Moves
2013–14 — Red Maple Award Finalist — Jump Cut
2014 — TD / CCBC John Spray Mystery Award — Who I’m Not
2014 — Arthur Ellis Award Finalist — Who I’m Not
2014 — BC Stellar Teen Choice Award Finalist
2021 — TD Summer Reading Club Recommended Read
2021–22 — Hackmatack Award Nominee
2022 — Rocky Mountain Book Award Nominee — Friends for Real
2026 — Silver Birch Award Nominee — Comic Shift
Multiple Years — CCBC Our Choice selections for many titles
1989 — Contributor, Writers On Writing, edited by David Booth, Overlea House
1997 — Contributor, Everybody’s Favourites: Canadians Talk About Books That Changed Their Lives, edited by Arlene Perly Rae, Viking
• The Writers’ Union of Canada
• CANSCAIP (Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators and Performers)
• SOCAN (Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada)
• Creative Writing Instructor, George Brown College
• Presenter and Workshop Leader for schools, libraries and literary events across Canada
Award-winning Ted Staunton books for curious minds and adventurous readers
Ted Staunton’s books are favourites with teachers, librarians, families and classrooms across Canada, with stories for reluctant readers, middle-grade readers and young adult readers.
Graphic novel adventure where ordinary kids discover extraordinary powers, unexpected friendships, and the courage to change the world.
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A graphic novel inspired by the 1933 Christie Pits Riot, exploring courage, friendship and standing up against hate. Click for the trailer, discussion guide and bonus material.
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It Seemed Like a Good Idea (2020)
A hilarious collection of true Canadian stories proving that sometimes the worst ideas make the very best adventures.
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A warm and funny picture book celebrating friendship, imagination and discovering that being yourself is always enough.
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The Almost Epic Squad: What Blows Up (2019)
Four ordinary kids develop almost-superpowers and discover that saving their small town is anything but ordinary.
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Mystery, adventure and unexpected twists collide when one strange event sends everything in a completely different direction.
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A film school assignment quickly turns into a story about friendship, identity and seeing the world from a new perspective.
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Harry and Clare's Amazing Staycation
Rainy days become unforgettable adventures as two imaginative siblings transform ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys together.
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A family camping trip turns into an unforgettable adventure filled with history, mystery and plenty of comic chaos.
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A fast-paced mystery where a teen con artist discovers that pretending to be someone else comes with real consequences.
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A reluctant filmmaker, a movie star and a ghost town combine for a wild road trip full of surprises.
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Three friends form a band to impress girls and discover that making music is easier than making good decisions.
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Growing up in a town full of unforgettable characters isn't easy, especially when your teacher is your first crush.
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Ted Staunton's first picture book celebrates imagination and the extraordinary adventures waiting inside an ordinary puddle.
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Ted Staunton’s school visits are designed for teachers, librarians, schools and classrooms looking to inspire young readers through humour, storytelling and creative writing. His presentations connect with reluctant readers, middle-grade readers and young adult readers, while giving families and educators another way to support literacy.
Ted’s books are available through Scholastic Canada, major retailers and independent bookstores across Canada. If a title is not in stock, your local bookstore can usually order it for you.
Click on any bookstore in this list, or visit in person: Blue Heron Books (Uxbridge, ON), Furby House Books (Port Hope, ON), Readers’ Nook (Cobourg, ON), Mabel’s Fables Bookstore (Toronto, ON), Ella Minnow Children’s Bookstore (Toronto, ON), A Different Drummer Books (Burlington, ON), Analog Books (Lethbridge, AB), Once Upon A Bookstore (Kelowna, BC) or Kidsbooks (Vancouver, BC).
Whether readers are just beginning their reading journey or ready for more complex adventures, Ted’s books combine humour, imagination, mystery and memorable characters that stay with readers long after the final page.
Browse Ted Staunton’s young adult fiction, middle-grade novels, chapter books, picture books and award-winning series.
Coda — Orca Books, 2014
The SEVEN SEQUELS are here! Coda continues the rollicking adventures of Spencer as his brother is kidnapped, and Spencer’s efforts to save him uncover a dark — or maybe silly — chapter in their late grandfather’s past. A breathless ride of comic suspense following hard on the heels of Jump Cut.
Ace’s Basement — Orca Books, 2013
This is another fast and funny tale about young musicians for reluctant readers in Grades 6–8. Picking up where Power Chord left off, Ace and his new music partner Lisa reluctantly take up their impulsive friend Denny’s offer to make them famous through a YouTube video, with results that are surprising in more ways than they intended.
“…a refreshingly upbeat teen novel. Staunton successfully portrays the struggles and humiliations of high school and the pressures of fitting in, succeeding, and seeking romance.” — Canadian Materials, ****/4 review
A 2014 Red Maple nominee.
Who I’m Not — Orca Books, 2013
Trying to dodge trouble, a teen con artist lands in the midst of it when he claims to be a long-missing child from Ontario and is accepted by his new “family.” Part mystery thriller, part black comedy, Who I’m Not wrestles with the key question for us all: identity.
“…takes off like a rocket and continues its upward trajectory right to the very last page…This book is a knockout, and that’s no con.” — Quill & Quire, starred review
“Readers aren’t sure whether or not they can trust the main character and that makes the journey all the more exhilarating…Breathless, fast-paced fun.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Reluctant readers will be receptive to this gripping tale about identity and resilience, written in clear language.” — School Library Journal
Jump Cut — Orca Books, 2012
Spencer is a film nerd with a simple task to do for his late grandpa: video a kiss on the cheek from an old-time movie goddess. Things get complicated when the movie star demands a drive to a ghost town north of Lake Superior in exchange for the kiss, with a gangster, a girl and a chihuahua along for the ride in a stolen Cadillac — not to mention the really bad guys in hot pursuit.
Part of the SEVEN series, with other authors.
Power Chord — Orca Books, 2012
Orca Currents
Ace and his Grade 9 buddies Denny and Pigpen decide to form a band to meet girls. Not knowing how to play instruments is only a minor problem; the moral dilemma of the best way to win a song contest becomes the real test for Ace.
Acting Up — Red Deer Press, 2010
Sam Foster returns for Grade 11 in the third volume of the Hope Springs trilogy, coping with music, maturity and a whirlwind girlfriend named Martha. What can maturity be in a town like Hope Springs, where the adults are often weirder than the teens?
Sounding Off — Red Deer Press, 2004
Follow Hope Springs’ own Sam Foster through the very public trials and tribulations of Grade 9 — where you want to be famous and utterly invisible at the same time — in this touching and funny story of small-town teens. A CCBC Our Choice title.
• Harry and Clare’s Amazing Staycation
• Miss Fishley Afloat
• Simon’s Surprise
• Taking Care of Crumley
• Puddleman
Harry and Clare’s Amazing Staycation — Tundra Books, 2017
When Harry and Clare are stuck at home for a rainy vacation, it’s a good thing they have such great imaginations. Trouble is, older sister Clare likes to make the rules — and eat all the snacks. Can Harry come up with a way to turn the tables?
• Puddleman, new edition — Red • Deer Press, 1999; 2002
• Anna Takes Charge — Bramalea Centres, 1993
• Miss Fishley Afloat — Kids Can Press, 1990
• Simon’s Surprise — Kids Can Press, 1986
• Taking Care of Crumley — Kids Can Press, 1984
• Puddleman — Kids Can Press, 1983; 1988
What Blows Up from The Almost Epic Squad series — Scholastic, 2019
Gary Lundborg’s growth spurt is messing up his coordination. So it’s not the best time to learn he can move objects with his mind…sort of. When he remembers to pay attention, that is.
Unknown to him, Gary is one of four kids exposed to a mysterious element at birth. Thirteen years later, the kids are developing weird powers they couldn’t ever imagine, or even want.
But someone does want those almost-epic powers and will stop at nothing to get them. It’s up to Gary, his sister, Kirsten, and his on-again, off-again power to save Dimly, Manitoba — and the world!
Bounced — Scholastic, 2017
If mystery, adventure and the occasional crocodile on the loose are your thing, a new novel is on its way to you! Watch here for updates.
Speed (The Seven Prequels) — Orca Book Publishers, 2016
How can you liven up a boring camping trip with your grandpa and your younger brother? Lose the new cell phone you weren’t supposed to bring with you.
Spencer finds more than he was looking for as he dodges a War of 1812 reenactment, a student film crew, an old flame of Grandpa’s, a crooked history buff and Laura Secord’s cowbell: a first taste of independence and maybe a glimpse of his future — by way of the past.
The third instalment of Seven is “prequels”: stories that happened before the first two, when the boys were 12 and 13 and Grandpa was there with them. Watch for Seven author events near you and at OLA!
Hope Springs a Leak — Red Deer Press, 1998
Sam Foster is hopelessly in love with his Grade 6 teacher. But how can he hope to stand out when the whole town of Hope Springs is filled with eccentrics?
A CCBC Our Choice title; nominated for the Silver Birch and Hackmatack awards.
The Monkey Mountain series — Red Deer Press
The concerns of the very different kids in Room 9 overlap even more than they realize, as each book in the series looks at their lives through the eyes of a different character. Sometimes joyous, sometimes moving, these novels of school, friendship and family are filled with humour tempered by real life. Strong as stand-alones, the stories take on added depth when read in sequence.
CCBC Our Choice selections.
The Morgan series — Formac Publishing
Morgan eats too much, talks too much — and likes too much. Whether fibbing to make friends, struggling to keep a secret, floundering on the soccer field, or losing his shorts over swimming lessons, Morgan keeps on trying. And, because — or maybe in spite of — his best efforts, what might almost be a friendship evolves under the smudgy glare of his nemesis, Aldeen Hummel, the Godzilla of Grade 3.
Fast-paced, funny stories for readers just beginning chapter books.
CCBC Our Choice selections.
The Maggie and Cyril series — originally Kids Can Press; now Ted Staunton
“Cyril, I’ve got a plan.”
Maggie, the brash, self-proclaimed Greenapple Street genius, is always happy to help mild-mannered Cyril with his problems — as long as he does everything she says. Follow them both as they grow and help each other through the middle grades in school and life.
The Dreadful Truth series — Formac Publishing, 2004
Humour and Canadian history rarely turn up in the same sentence — except here. A witty and incisive summary of how we came to be, perfect for Grade 7 and 8 readers who often think “the past” means “dull.”
CCBC Our Choice selections.
Author Visits, Writing Tips and Classroom Inspiration
Discover book trailers, writing lessons, author interviews and literacy activities that help students connect with reading, writing and storytelling.
Podcasts, Readings & Conversations
Listen to Ted discuss writing, storytelling and the inspiration behind his books through featured podcast episodes and interviews.
Schools invite Ted Staunton for interactive author visits and writing workshops that inspire students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 to read, write and think creatively.
Ted Staunton presents to students from elementary through secondary school. His interactive author visits and writing workshops are tailored to the age and interests of each group, making them ideal for middle-grade readers, young adult readers and reluctant readers.
Yes. Ted offers both in-person and virtual presentations for schools, libraries and literacy organizations across Canada. Virtual author visits include storytelling, creative writing activities, question-and-answer sessions and discussions about the writing process.
Ted’s books are available through major retailers, libraries and online bookstores, including Scholastic Canada. Whenever possible, consider supporting your local independent bookstore—they’re an important part of Canada’s reading community and can often order any Ted Staunton title for you.
Featured Independent Bookstores
Blue Heron Books — Uxbridge, Ontario
Furby House Books — Port Hope, Ontario
Reader’s Nook — Cobourg, Ontario
Mabel’s Fables — Toronto, Ontario
Ella Minnow Children’s Bookstore — Toronto, Ontario
A Different Drummer Books — Burlington, Ontario
Analog Books — Lethbridge, Alberta
Once Upon A Bookstore — Kelowna, British Columbia
Kidsbooks — Vancouver, British Columbia
Schools, teachers, librarians and event organizers can book a Ted Staunton author visit through the Contact section, Authors Booking Service, The Writers’ Union of Canada, or the Canada Council for the Arts for eligible public readings. Ted offers school presentations, creative writing workshops and literacy events designed to inspire students to read, write and explore their imagination. Fill out the form below or contact Ted at:
Ted Staunton
Email: tedstaunton@sympatico.ca
Phone: 905-885-0517
Port Hope, Ontario
Additional Booking Options
• Authors Booking Service at www.authorsbooking.com
• The Writers’ Union of Canada at www.writersunion.ca
• Canada Council for the Arts public readings program
Ted writes for a wide range of readers, including picture book audiences, early readers, middle-grade readers and young adult readers. His stories blend humour, mystery, adventure and memorable characters that appeal to students of many ages.
Presentations are interactive and engaging, combining storytelling, writing inspiration, humour, audience participation and behind-the-scenes insights into the creative process. Students leave encouraged to read more, write more and develop confidence in their own ideas.
Absolutely. Many of Ted’s books and presentations are especially popular with reluctant readers because they combine fast-paced storytelling, humour and relatable characters that make reading enjoyable and accessible.
Yes. Ted Staunton is an award-winning Canadian author whose books have received the TD/CCBC John Spray Mystery Award and nominations for the Silver Birch, Red Maple, Hackmatack, Arthur Ellis and BC Stellar awards. Many of his titles have also been selected for CCBC Our Choice lists.
Yes. In addition to author presentations, Ted leads creative writing workshops for students and educators, sharing practical techniques for developing characters, building stories and discovering a unique writing voice.
Ted Staunton lives in Port Hope, Ontario, and presents to schools, libraries and literary events across Canada, both in person and virtually.
From author visits and writing workshops to festivals, performances and book signings, Ted Staunton inspires readers of all ages through storytelling, creativity and a genuine love of books.
Whether you’re planning a school visit, looking for your next classroom read, booking a writing workshop or simply saying hello, Ted would love to hear from you.
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Serving schools, libraries and literary festivals across Canada from Port Hope, Ontario. Ted Staunton’s author visits, writing workshops and award-winning books inspire readers from Kindergarten to Grade 12.