Today, we bring to you an interview with author Yolanda T. Marshall. Yolanda is an award-winning author of more than 20 books for children, including C is for Carnival, A Piece of Black Cake for Santa, Hot Cross Buns for Everyone, and Brown Girl in the Snow, which was selected by both CBC and The Globe and Mail as among the Best Books of 2025.
Marching North is her latest book. When Aunty Evangelina gifts Abiola an old compass, it becomes more than just a keepsake; it symbolises direction, courage, and identity. She introduces Abiola to the remarkable legacy of Black Caribbean soldiers who served and fought for Canada during the First and Second World Wars. These men travelled from the warmth of their Caribbean nations to foreign battlefields, facing prejudice and hardship while remaining determined to serve with honour. Many returned to become doctors, lawyers, teachers, and community leaders. They were true heroes whose resilience helped shape Canada’s history.
Clip courtesy of Read with Harp.
More about Grimelle starring Cindy Charles.
*Download our Discussion Questions for your class*
Host Cindy Charles
Writer Nuruddin Qorane
Executive Producer Ryan Barnett
Associate Producer Cindy Charles
Voice Director Sonia Gemmiti
Researcher Dr. Sarafina Pagnotta
Series Consultants Kathy Grant & Mathias Joost
This series features interviews with Lt. Jerome Downey, Robert Downey, Jr., Michael Marville, Stephen Dame, Mathias Joost, Kathy Grant, Constance Backhouse, Dr. Dorothy Williams
Additional voices by Keith Francis & Matthew Barnett
A Knockabout Media Production
This podcast was made possible thanks to funding from Veterans Affairs Canada’s Commemorative Partnership Program.
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