Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: April 17, 1997
• Invested on: October 22, 1997

She has helped to raise the status of children's literature in Canada, drawing her young readers into her stories, and encouraging them to read both fiction and historical works to learn about their roots and the pleasures of the written word. The Story of Canada, which she co-authored, has become an essential resource in libraries and schools throughout the country. As the first children's author to hold the position of Chair of the Writers' Union of Canada, she worked energetically at building readership and visibility for Canadian authors, particularly those who write for children.