Alumni Book Nook: Bonnie Eklund (BSN’96)

Growing up in Tisdale, Sask., University of Saskatchewan (USask) graduate Bonnie Eklund (BSN’96) “always had a desire to help others.” With the goal of making a difference in patients’ lives, Eklund decided to study nursing after high school, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at USask in 1996. In 1998, Eklund went on to attend graduate school in Connecticut, USA. She now lives and works in British Columbia as a family nurse practitioner.

Outside of her work in health care, Eklund is a writer who has co-authored two children’s books. The first, It’s Great to be Different, was co-written by Eklund and USask graduate Ashley Vercammen (BA’17). It was self-published in 2024 with Home Style Teachers. The second book, It’s Great to be Adopted, was co-written by Eklund and her son, Amel. That book was self-published in 2025, also with Home Style Teachers.

The Green&White recently asked Eklund about the books and about her career paths.

Why did you choose to study at USask?

It was the best university in Canada close to home.

You are now a family nurse practitioner in B.C. What do you enjoy about your career and providing care to your patients?

I love being able to make a difference and hopefully try to fill some of the gaps in health care we are having right now.

You have written two children’s non-fiction books. What inspired you to write these books?
My son, whom we adopted from Ethiopia when he was a baby.

What is the focus of It’s Great to be Different?

These short stories are perfect to spark the conversation of differences among friends. This book addresses skin colour, gender norms, and physical and mental abilities. These stories are based on real situations some children have faced and allow the learning to begin at home.

What is the focus of It’s Great to be Adopted?

It celebrates the love, joy, and belonging adoption brings. It helps children understand that families are built in many different ways—and that being adopted is something to be proud of. My son wanted other kids to understand adoption and to not feel sad for him. 

You wrote It’s Great to Be Adopted with your son. What was that process like?

It was wonderful to be able to do it together. He did all the writing. He is 10 now. We started the process when he was eight years old. 

What responses have you received from readers about your books?

We have had a wonderful response. Amel’s book was even listed as a bestseller on Amazon USA a few months back and has been sold internationally. People love the stories. 

What advice do you have for other USask alumni who may also want to write and publish a book?

Don’t give up your dream of writing a book. It takes time and perseverance, but it’s worth the outcome. 

Is there anything else that you would like to add?

I just hope others enjoy reading it and that the messages we convey are shared and spread around the world.