Books with Wings is based on the premise that literacy and education are crucial to improving the lives of First Nations children. Literacy is essential to future employment, opportunity, and sustainable living. The literacy rates and levels of education of First Nations children and adults (particularly those living on reserve), are inferior to those of non-indigenous children living in Canada. According to the 2016 census, 48% of indigenous students have completed high school. The Globe and Mail states that “Regardless of race, children who do not complete at least high school are unlikely to gain regular employment and are probably doomed to poverty as adults.” (Richards, “Census 2016: Where is the discussion about Indigenous education?”, Dec 13 2017).

Books with Wings hopes to encourage literacy by providing children with storybooks of their own. All books are taken home by the children to keep.