52 Canadian picture books coming out in fall 2020 | CBC Books - Action News
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BooksFall Book Preview

52 Canadian picture books coming out in fall 2020

Here are the Canadian books for kids coming out this season we can't wait to read!

Here are theCanadian picturebookscoming out this season we can't wait to read.

Raj's Rule by Lana Button, illustrated by Hatem Aly

Raj's Rule is a picture book by Lana Button, illustrated by Hatem Aly. (OwlKids)

Raj's Ruleis about Raj, a boy who doesn't like to use the bathroom when he's at school. He prefers the one at home and has a rule to never go to the potty when he's at school. But one day, Raj sneezes and learns that sometimes, when you have to go, you have to go.

Raj's Ruleis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Aug. 15, 2020

Lana Button is a children's book author fromOntario. Her other books include My Teacher's Not Here! and What if Bunny is Not a Bully?

Hatem Alyis a children's book illustrator who lives in New Brunswick. He also illustrated the picture book The Proudest Blue, which was written by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S.K. Ali.

Our Little Kitchen by Jillian Tamaki

Out Little Kitchen is a picture book by Jillian Tamaki. (Emma McIntyre, Groundwood Books)

Our Little Kitchenis apicture book that features a neighbourhood withcolourful characters who come together in the kitchen to share a meal.Our Little Kitchenis a celebration of food, community and laughter.

Our Little Kitchenis for ages 4-8.

When you can read it: Sept. 1, 2020

Jillian Tamaki is an award-winning illustrator. In 2014, Tamaki received the Governor General's LiteraryAwardfor her work inThisOne Summer,written by her cousin and graphic novelist MarikoTamaki. They also collaboratedonSkim. Her other books include the comics SuperMutant Magic Academy and Boundless and the picture book They Say Blue.

Tamaki created a comic strip calledThis Facefor the specialCBC BooksseriesBorders.

Maggie's Treasure by Jon-Erik Lappano, illustrated by Kellen Hatanaka

Maggies Treasure is a picture book by Jon-Erik Lappano and Kellen Hatanaka. (Robert Scarborough, Groundwood Books, Kiersten Hatanaka)

In Maggie's Treasure,Maggie is a young girl who loves to collect new things. But she soon finds that her treasure collection is growing bigger and bigger. When her parents say she has enough, Maggie has to find a way to keep her precious treasure collection and learn to share in the process.

Maggie's Treasureis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept.1, 2020

Jon-Erik Lappano and Kellen Hatanakaare an author-illustrator pair from Ontario. Their previous picture book,Tokyo Digs a Garden,won the2016 Governor General's Literary Awardfor young people's literature illustration.

I Found Hope in a Cherry Tree by Jean E. Pendziwol, illustrated by Nathalie Dion

I Found Hope in a Cherry Tree is a picture book by Jean E. Pendziwol, illustrated by Nathalie Dion. (Groundwood Books, Ryan Pendziwol, Jinny Montpetit)

In the picture bookI Found Hope in a Cherry Tree,a child learns all about the beauty of her natural surroundings. The lyrical poem is a message of hope and endurance through the eyes of a little girl and the wonder of a cherry tree.

I Found Hope in a Cherry Treeis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Jean E. Pendziwolisan author from Ontario.She is the author of the novelThe Lightkeeper's Daughtersand the children's booksOnce Upon a Northern Night,Me and You and the Red Canoe and The Red Sash.

Nathalie Dion is an artist and illustrator based in Montreal. She also illustrated the picture book The Biggest Puddle in the World by Mark Lee.

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt by Riel Nason, illustrated byByron Eggenschwiler

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt is a picture book by Riel Nason, illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler. (Tundra Books)

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quiltis a picture book about a little ghost with a big heart. While his parents are ghosts with sheets, his sheet isa quilt andhe doesn't know why. He soon realizes what he is capable of and that it is OKto be different.

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quiltis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Riel Nason is an artist and authorfrom New Brunswick. Herdebut novel,The Town That Drowned, won the Commonwealth Book Prize for Canada and Europe and was longlisted for the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award. She is also the author of the 2016 novelAll the Things We Leave Behind.

Byron Eggenschwiler is an illustrator who has contributed to publications like the New York Times, New Yorker and GQ. He also illustrated the books Operatic by Kyo Maclear and Coyote Tales by Thomas King.

The Last Loose Tooth by Tyler Clark Burke

The Last Loose Tooth is a picture book by Tyler Clark Burke. (Random House Books for Young Readers)

The Last Loose Toothis a picture book about a tooth named Lou. He's the last one loose, and hedecides to never leave the mouth. It takes a visit from the Tooth Fairy to the Land of Teeth for Lou to realize that it's OKto leave your familiar surroundings.

The Last Loose Toothis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Tyler Clark Burke is a designer, writer, illustrator and artist from Toronto. She is also the author of the picture bookWhere Are You Now?

I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott, illustratedSydney Smith

I Talk Like a River is a picture book by Jordan Scott (left) and illustrated by Sydney Smith. (Andrew Zawacki, Neal Porter Books, Steve Farmer)

I Talk Like a Riveris a picture book about a young boy who has trouble communicating and is feeling lost and alone. His father takes him for a walk by the river, where he helps him find his voice.

I Talk Like a Riveris for ages 4-8.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Jordan Scottis a poet from Comox Valley, B.C. His books includeSlit,Blert,Decomp,co-authored by Stephen Collis,andNight & Ox.Scottwas awarded the 2018 LatnerWriters' Trust Poetry Prize, which is given annually to a mid-career poet.I Talk Like a Riveris his first children's book.

Sydney Smithis an illustrator from Nova Scotia. The books he has illustrated includeSidewalk Flowersby JonArno Lawson andTown is by the Sea,writtenby Joanne Schwartz. He wrote and illustrated the picture bookSmall in the City, which wonthe 2019 Governor General's Literary Award for young people's literature, illustration.

The Barnabus Project by the Fan Brothers

The Barnabus Project is a picture book by the Fan Brothers. (Tundra Books)

The Barnabus Projectfeatures a secret underground lab, genetically engineeredcreatures and a story about freedom.Barnabus and his friends live in this lab but they are deemed imperfect and might never see the outside world. ButBarnabusyearns to be free and decides that it's time for he and his imperfect friends to make the perfect escape.

The Barnabus Projectis for ages 5-9.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Eric Fan and Terry Fan are brothers and frequent collaborators on children's books. Theirbooks includeThe Night Gardener andOcean Meets Sky. They also illustratedThe Darkest Darkby Chris Hadfield.

Devin Fan is an artist, poet and youth worker.The Barnabus Projectis his first children's book and marks the first time all three brothers have written and illustrated a picture book together.

Nice Try, Charlie! by Matt James

Nice Try, Charlie! is a picture book by Matt James. (Andy Lidz, Groundwood Books)

Nice Try, Charlie!isthe story of Charlie, a neighbourhood man with a big green hat and a cart full of treasures who finds a pie one day. Charlie is determined to locate the owner of the tasty pastry and finds new friends along the way.

Nice Try, Charlie!is for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Matt James is a painter,illustrator and musician from Toronto. He illustrated the picture bookWhen The Moon Comeswritten by Paul Harbridge and wrote and illustrated the picture book The Funeral.

This Is the Path the Wolf Took by Laura Farina, illustrated by Elina Ellis

This Is the Path the Wolf Took is a picture book by Laura Farina, illustrated by Elina Ellis. (Kids Can Press)

This Is the Path the Wolf Tookis about a boy who tells stories to his little sister, andtends to embellish them a little along the way. The sister doesn't like when he does that and is determined to let him know how the stories are really supposed to go.This Is the Path the Wolf Tookuses humour toremind children of the power of storytelling and whatmakes for a goodstory.

This Is the Path the Wolf Tookis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Laura Farina is a writer and poet from Vancouver. In 2017, Farina made theCBC Poetry Prizelonglist forChoose Your Own Poem. She is the author of two poetry collections,Some Talk of Being Human and This Woman Alphabetical.This Is the Path the Wolf Tookis her first book for kids.

Elina Ellis is a British illustrator of children's books such asTheReptile Club, which was written byMaureen Fergus.

The Nut That Fell from the Tree by Sangeeta Bhadra, illustrated by France Cormier

The Nut That Fell From the Tree is a picture book by Sangeeta Bhadra, illustrated by France Cormier. (Denise Grant, Kids Can Press)

InThe Nut That Fell from the Tree,children learn how an acorn grows into a tree. Jill is a girl who discovers the wonder of nature as an oak tree grows as the years pass by.

The Nut That Fell from the Treeis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Sangeeta Bhadrais an children's book author from Ontario. She is also the author ofSam's Pet Temper, which was illustrated by Marion Arbona.

France Cormieris anillustrator from Quebec. She has illustrated several French-language picture books.

The International Day of the Girl by Jessica Dee Humphreys & Rona Ambrose, illustrated by Simone Shin

The International Day of the Girl is a picture book by Jessica Dee Humphreys & Rona Ambrose, illustrated by Simone Shin (Kids Can Press)

The International Day of the Girlis a celebration about what it meansto be a girl all around the world.The United Nations designated Oct.11 every yearas the International Day of the Girl, a day to increase awareness of problems that affect girlsaround the world and to encourage progress toward gender equality. The stories in this book showcase the importance of the day and the power of being a girl.

The International Day of the Girlis for ages 7-10.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Jessica Dee Humphreysis a Canadian writer and researcher. She is also the author ofChild Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in Warandhas written two books withRomo Dallaire.

Rona Ambrose is the former interim leader of the federal Conservative Party and the opposition leader between 2015 and 2017. She lives in Calgary and led the global movement to create the International Day of the Girlat the United Nations.

Simone Shin is an Americanchildren's book illustrator.

Hug? by Charlene Chua

Hug? is a picture book by Charlene Chua. (Kids Can Press)

Hug?is a picture book about awareness and setting appropriate boundaries. Using humour, the book features a child who wants to know how many hugs is too many. In examining compassion and empathy, the child figures out just how to express what she likes and doesn't like.

Hug?is for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 1, 2020

Charlene Chua is a Singapore-born Canadian author and illustrator. She has illustrated several picture books, including The Pencil bySusan AvingaqandMaren Vsetula,Shubh Diwali! by Chitra SoundarandAmy Wu and the Perfect Bao by Kat Zhang.

Hockey in the Wild by Nicholas Oldland

Hockey in the Wild is a picture book by Nicholas Oldland. (Kids Can Press)

Hockey in the Wildexploreslessons on patience and perseverance along with wild animals playing hockey!The picture book is set in winter and the bear, the moose and the beaver are excited to play the game they all love. But the ice on the lake isn't quite frozen enough and the animals must learn to wait until it is ready.

When you can read it: Sept. 1, 2020

Nicholas Oldland is an artist, filmmaker and author from Toronto. His other picture books include One Wild Christmas, The Busy Beaver, Big Bear Hugand Up the Creek.

Please Don't Change My Diaper by Sarabeth Holden, illustrated by Emma Pedersen

Please Don't Change My Diaper is a picture book by Sarabeth Holden (pictured), illustrated by Emma Pedersen. (Inhabit Media)

Please Don't Change My Diaperis a rhymingpicture book about a baby whodoesn't like to have their diaper changed. It takes a little bit of love for the child to learn that feeling fresh and clean is where it's at.

Please Don't Change My Diaperis for ages 0-3.

When you can read it:Oct. 6, 2020

Sarabeth Holden grew up between Nova Scotia, Nunavut, New Brunswickand Ontario. She is currently the president of the Toronto Inuit Association.Please Don't Change My Diaperis her first book.

Emma Pedersen is a storyteller and illustrator from Ontario. She also illustrated the picture books The Blizzard, written by Heather Main, andLife Cycles of Caribou, written byMonica Ittusardjuat.

Why Are You So Quiet? by Jaclyn Desforges, illustrated by Risa Hugo

Why Are You So Quiet is a picture book by Jaclyn Desforges, illustrated by Risa Hugo. (Annick Press, Hannah Zoe Davison, Jochem Grin)

InWhy Are You So Quiet?, a girl named Myra Louise learns all about the power of silence. For Myra, she feels a bit introverted and the world can seem like a loud place. While everyone keeps asking her why she is so quiet, Myra helps them understand why it is okay to be who you are.

Why Are You So Quiet?is for ages 4-7.

When you can read it:Sept.8, 2020

Jaclyn Desforgesis awriter, editor and poet from Ontario. She was a winner ofPEN Canada's 2018 New Voices Award.Why Are You So Quiet?is her first children's book.

Risa Hugo is a picture book illustrator from Vancouver.Why Are You So Quiet?is her first picture book.

Mom Marries Mum!by Ken Setterington, illustrated by Alice Priestley

Mom Marries Mum! Illustrated book cover of two young girls and their two moms holding hands and dancing in a circle.
Mom Marries Mum! is a picture book written by Ken Setterington and illustrated by Alice Priestley (not pictured). (Second Story Press)

This picture book celebrates the diversity of family. In Mom Marries Mum!two siblings are over the moon when they learn that their mom and mum have decided to get married.

Mom Marries Mum!is for ages 0-3.

When you can read it: Sept. 8, 2020

Ken Setterington is a writer, storyteller, children's book reviewerand librarian from Toronto. He is also a columnist for CBC Radio'sThe Next Chapter. His other children's books includeMom and Mum are Getting Marriedand Branded by the Pink Triangle.

Alice Priestley is an artist and illustrator from Toronto. She has illustrated several children's books, includingRainbows in the Darkby Jan Coates,Winning the Girl of the SeabyBrenda SilsbeandLights for GitabyRachna Gilmore.

My Family, Your Family!by Kathryn Cole, illustrated by Cornelia Li

My Family, Your Family! is a picture book by Kathryn Cole, illustrated by Cornelia Li. (Second Story Press)

What is the nature of family. My Family, Your Family!showcases the many different types of families, including gay parents, single parents, blended familiesand other family groups.

My Family, Your Family!is for ages 0-3.

When you can read it:Sept.8, 2020

Kathryn Coleis anillustrator, art director, editor, publisher andchildren's book author from Toronto. Her other books for children includeA Tattle-Tell Tale and Never Give Up,both illustrated by Qin Leng.

Cornelia Li is an illustrator and storyteller from Toronto. She also illustrated the books Voyage Through Space, Animals at Night and Nature's Light Spectacular, all written by Katy flint.

My Day with Gong Gong by Sennah Yee, illustrated by Elaine Chen

My Day with Gong Gong is a picture book by Sennah Yee, illustrated by Elaine Chen. (Annick Press, Christine Ting Wei Wang, Angela Pan)

My Day with Gong Gongis a story about a little girl, her grandfather and a fateful day in Chinatown. Little May doesn't seem to connect with her grandpa Gong Gong, who only speaks a little English. They are out on a day trip and she isn'thaving much fun. But May realizes that Gong Gong knows much more than he is letting on and the two end up having a wonderfulday together.

My Day with Gong Gongis for ages 4-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 8,2020

Sennah Yee is a poet andwriter from Toronto. She released her debut collection of poetry,How Do I Look?in 2017.

Elaine Chen is anillustrator and art director from Vancouver.

Lilliana and the Frogs by Scot Ritchie

Lilliana and the Frogs is a picture book by Scot Ritchie. (Harbour Publishing)

Lilliana and the Frogsis about a girl named Lilliana who simply adores frogs and being in nature. One dayshe decides to bring some real live frogs home, leading to a funny adventure when the frogs escape.

Lilliana and the Frogsis for ages 3-5.

When you can read it:Sept. 12, 2020

Scot Ritchie is a Vancouver-born author and illustrator. He has published more than a dozen books for children, including Follow That Bee!, My Class and Me and Look Where We Live.

The Paper Boat by Thao Lam

The Paper Boat is a picture book by Thao Lam. (Submitted by Thao Lam, Owlkids)

The Paper Boatuses collage art to tell a wordless story about a family'sescape from Vietnam a journey that connects withnature and an ant colony. The Paper Boatdepicts a perilous journey of hope, perseverance and new beginnings.

The Paper Boatis for ages 6-9.

When you can read it:Sept. 15, 2020

Thao Lam is an author and illustrator from Toronto. Herpicture books includeWallpaperandMy Cat Looks Like My Dad.

Shape Up, Construction Trucks! by Victoria Allenby

Shape Up, Construction Trucks! is a picture book by Victoria Allenby. (Pajama Press)

Shape Up, Construction Trucks!is a board book that uses colour, rhyme and vivid images of vehiclesto teach children all about different shapes.

Shape Up, Construction Trucks!is for ages 2-5.

When you can read it:Sept. 15, 2020

Victoria Allenbyis a poet and writer from Toronto. She is also the author of the picture booksGood Morning, Grumple, illustrated by Manon Gauthier, and Rhino Rumpus, illustrated by Tara Anderson.

Princesses Versus Dinosaurs by Linda Bailey, illustrated byJoy Ang

Princesses Versus Dinosaurs is a picture by Linda Bailey, illustrated by Joy Ang. (Tundra Books, Lia Grainger)

Princesses Versus Dinosaursisa funny self-aware story about what happens whenlucky princesses and determined dinosaurs face off.

Princesses Versus Dinosaursis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 15, 2020

Linda Bailey is children's book author who was born in Winnipeg and now lives in Vancouver.Her other books includeCarson Crosses Canada,Mary Who Wrote Frankensteinanda series of picture books about a dog named Stanley.

Joy Ang is anillustrator, visualartist and comic book cover designer from Alberta.

Snow Doves by Nancy Hartry, illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard

Snow Doves is a picture book written by Nancy Hartry, left, and illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard, right. (Second Story Press, Emmanuelle Roberge)

In Snow Doves, aboy named Samihas arrived in a new country and doesn't know anything about the snow that is all around him. His new neighbour Joy doesn't speak his language, but the two children connectabout understanding and facing fears on a cold and snowy day.

Snow Dovesis for ages 3-6.

When you can read it:Sept. 15, 2020

Nancy Hartryis a novelist and picture book author fromToronto. She is also the author of the picture booksHold On, McGinty! and Jocelyn and the Ballerina.

Gabrielle Grimardis an authorand illustrator from Quebec. She wrote and illustrated the picture books Lila and the Crow and Nutcracker Night and illustrated the books Stolen Words byMelanie Florenceand The Magic Boat by Kit Pearson and Katherine Farris.

I Do Not Like Stories by Andrew Larsen, illustrated by Carey Sookocheff

I Do Not Like Stories is a picture book by Andrew Larsen, illustrated by Carey Sookocheff (not pictured). (OwlKids)

A boy whodoesn't like storiesis the subject ofI Do Not Like Stories. The picture book is about a contrarian kid whoover the course of aday and through the love of his catlearns that stories can be funny and interesting after all.

I Do Not Like Storiesis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 15, 2020

Andrew Larsenis a children's book author based in Toronto. His other picture books includeMe, Toma and the Concrete Garden, illustrated byAnne Villeneuve, and The Imaginary Garden, illustrated byIrene Luxbacher.

Carey Sookocheffis an illustrator based in Ontario. She also illustrated the picture books Sprout, Seed, Sprout by Annika Dunklee and the Buddy and Earl series by Maureen Fergus.

Bobby Orr and the Hand-me-down Skates by Kara Kootstra &Bobby Orr, illustrated by Jennifer Phelan

Bobby Orr and the Hand-Me-Down Skates is a picture book by Kara Kootstra and Bobby Orr, illustrated by Jennifer Phelan. (Tundra Books, Sarah Kivell, Gleb Noujin)

Bobby Orr and the Hand-me-down Skatesis about a boy named Bobby and his love for hockey. He really wants abrand new pair of ice skates. When he receives a pair of old hand-me-down skates, he is initially upset but soon learns to love them. He can't imagine life without them but has to make a choice when a new pair arrivein his life.

Bobby Orr and the Hand-Me-Down Skatesis for ages 4-8.

When you can read it:Sept. 22, 2020

Kara Kootstrais anauthorand classically trained singer and pianist from Windsor, Ont. She is also the author of the hockey-themed booksThe Boy in Number Four andJay Versus the Saxophone of Doom.

Bobby Orris aformer professional ice hockey player, widely considered to be one of the greatest players of all time.

Jennifer Phelanis an artist and illustrator From Toronto.Her other booksincludeHey, Boyby Benjamin Strouse andThe Log Driver's WaltzbyWade Hemsworth.

Night Walk by Sara O'Leary, illustrated by Ellie Arscott

Night Walk is a picture book by Sara O'Leary, illustrated by Ellie Arscott. (Nadia Zheng, Groundwood Books, Anna Dalton Church)

InNight Walk,a story of nighttime wonder unfolds through the eyes of a child.When a little girl can't sleep one night, her dad takes her out on a walk around the neighbourhood. At night, the girl realizes that being outside at night is like a whole new world to explore.

Night Walkis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Sept. 29, 2020

Sara O'Leary is a writer from Quebec. She is the author of the novel The Ghost in the House and the children's booksOwls Are Good at Keeping Secrets, illustrated by Jacob Grant,A Family Is a Family Is a Family,illustrated by Qin Leng, andThis Is Sadie,illustrated by Julie Morstad.

Ellie Arscott is an artist and illustrator from Ontario.Night Walkis her first picture book.

Catch the Sky by Robert Heidbreder, illustrated by Emily Dove

Catch the Sky is a picture book by Robert Heidbreder, illustrated by Emily Dove (not pictured). (Greystone Kids)

Catch the Skyuses poetic verse to capture how children perceive the world around them. The picture book sees children looking at the sky around them to see birds, balloons, stars and more.

Catch the Skyis for ages 3-8.

When you can read it:Sept.29, 2020

Robert Heidbrederis a children's poet and author from Vancouver who has been writing children's books for over 30 years. He has published 18 children's books,includingA Sea-Wishing Day,Drumheller Dinosaur Dance,Don't Eat Spiders andOur Corner Store. He wrote the children's poem It's 7 p.m.! for CBC Books' Transmission series about life during COVID-19.

Emily Dove is an American author and illustrator.

The Three Brothers by Marie-Louise Gay

The Three Brothers is a picture book by Marie-Louise Gay. (Groundwood Books)

The Three Brothersfeatures three siblings who set off on an adventure to discover wild animals within their changing world. Using vibrant illustrations, it's astory of love, togetherness and the impact of climate change.

The Three Brothersis for ages 4-8.

When you can read it:Sept. 29, 2020

Marie-Louise Gay is a prolific author and illustrator of children's literature from Montreal. She has won the Governor General's Literary Award for children literature illustration twice, forRainy Day Magic andYuck, A Love Story.Her other children's books include Mustafa, Any Questions?and the Stella & Sam series.

The Old Woman by Joanne Schwartz, illustrated by Nahid Kazemi

The Old Woman is a picture book by Joanne Schwartz, illustrated by Nahid Kazemi. (Groundwood Books, Yasaman Ameri)

An old woman and her dog is the focus of this moody picture book about life and appreciating each moment. Walking in the autumn leaves one day, the woman wonders what it might be like to fly in the sky. The wind blows, the light fades and the woman wishes for nothing more than to spend each day with her trusty companion.

The Old Womanis for ages 7-12.

When you can read it:Sept. 29, 2020

Joanne Schwartzis a children's author and librarian from Cape Breton who now lives in Toronto. Her previous children's book,TownIsby the Sea, won the 2018TD Canadian Children's Literature Awardfor best Canadian children's book of the year.

Nahid Kazemi is an artist, illustrator, graphic designer and author from Montreal. Her otherbooks includeI'm Glad That You're Happy, The Orange House andOver the Rooftops, Under the MoonbyJonArno Lawson.

The Stray and the Strangers by Steven Heighton, illustrated by Melissa Iwai

The Stray and the Strangers is a picture book by Steven Heighton, illustrated by Melissa Iwai. (Mary Huggard, Groundwood Books, melissaiwai.com)

Based on a true story, The Stray and the Strangers is about a refugeeboy, a stray dogand the friendship they share together.

The Stray and the Strangersis for ages 6-9.

When you can read it:Sept.29, 2020

Steven Heightonis a novelist, short story writer and poet from Toronto. His other books include the poetry collectionTheWaking Comes Late,which won the 2016 Governor General's Literary Award for poetry, and the novelTheNightingale Won't Let You Sleep.He also has a memoir coming out in fall 2020, calledReaching Mithymna.

Melissa Iwaiis an American author and illustrator.

The Name I Call Myself by Hasan Namir, illustrated by Cathryn John

The Name I Call Myself is a picture book by Hasan Namir, illustrated by Cathryn John. (Alex Illici, Arsenal Pulp Press)

Born Edward, the child inThe Name I Call Myselfprefers to be called Ari. This picture follows their journey from six to being a teenager as they learn more about gender,identity and self-acceptance.

The Name I Call Myselfis for ages 5-9.

When you can read it:Oct. 1, 2020

Hasan Namir is a poet and novelist from Vancouver. He is also the author of the novelGod in Pinkand the poetry collectionWar /Torn.CBC Books named Namira writer to watch in 2019.

Cathryn John is an illustrator and designer fromVancouver.

The Lady with the Books by Kathy Stinson, illustrated by Marie Lafrance

The Lady with the Books is a picture book by Kathy Stinson (pictured), illustrated by Marie Lafrance. (kathystinson.com, Kids Can Press)

This picture bookby Kathy Stinson, is based on the real-life work of Jella Lepman, founder of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) and the International Youth Library. The Lady with the Booksfollows the true story of Jella as she travels with her collection of kids' books around the world on a mission of understanding after the Second World War.

The Lady with the Booksis for ages 4-7.

When you can read it:Oct. 6, 2020

Kathy Stinson is a prolificCanadian children's writer from Ontario. She is the author of more than 30children's books, includingRed Is Best,illustrated by Robin Baird Lewis,andThe Man with the Violin, illustrated byDusan Petricic.

Marie Lafranceis an artist and illustrator from Quebec. She also illustrated Oscar Lives Next Door by Bonnie FarmerandBunny the Brave War Horse byElizabeth MacLeod.

AAAlligator!by Judith Henderson, illustrated by Andrea Stegmaier

AAAlligator! is a picture book by Judith Henderson (pictured), illustrated by Andrea Stegmaier. (Kids Can Press)

AAAlligator!is a picture book aboutlove and tolerance. It featuresa hungry alligator, the town residents who don't want it around and a small boy who believesthat everyone needs to be understood.

AAAlligator!is for ages 8-12.

When you can read it: Oct.6, 2020

Judith Henderson is a Canadianchildren's composer, producer and author. She is also the author of the Big Words Small Stories series.

Andrea Stegmaieris a Germanillustrator and architect.

111 Trees by Rina Singh, illustrated by Marianne Ferrer

111 Trees is a picture book by Rina Singh, illustrated by Marianne Ferrer. (Kids Can Press, Marianne Ferrer)

111 Treesis a story basedon true events in the life of community activist Sundar Paliwalandexplores the power of community and culture.Thisuplifting story shows how one person can make a difference in a community whenSundar is determined to live in a place where girls are valued as much as boys and where the land is not devastated by irresponsible corporations.

111 Treesis for ages 5-8.

When you can read it:Oct.6, 2020

Rina Singh is an India-born Canadian author who now lives inToronto. Her other children's books includeDiwali Lights,My First Book of Hindi Words andGuru Nanak: The First Sikh Guru.

Marianne Ferrer is an artist and illustrator from Quebec. She also created the picture book The Invisible Garden withValrie Picard.

Let's Time Travel! by Chris Ferrie

Let's Time Travel! is a picture book by Chris Ferrie. (Sourcebooks)

Let's Time Travel!featuresRed Kangaroo and Dr. Chris as they teach children all abouttime and space. Using real-world and practical examples, Let's Time Travel!aims to teach young readers aboutscientific and mathematical concepts to help answer many of their "why" questions.

Let's Time Travel!is for ages 8-12.

When you can read it:Oct.6, 2020

Chris Ferrie is a physicist, mathematician, researcher and children's book author who is from Ontario but now livesinAustralia.

The Wrench by Elise Gravel

The Wrench is a picture book by Elise Gravel. (Orca Book Publishers)

The Wrenchis filled with humour as it looks at the life ofBob and what happens when histricycle is broken. He needs a wrench to fix it and encounters a series offunny events and happenings along the way.

The Wrenchis for ages 3-5.

When you can read it:Oct. 13, 2020

Elise Gravel is a Quebec author and illustrator. She is the author of several books for children, including The Bat, The Worst Book Ever, The Mushroom Fan Club, I Want a Monster! and What Is a Refugee?

When We Are Kind by Monique Gray Smith, illustrated by Nicole Neidhardt

When We Are Kind is a picture book written by Monique Gray Smith, left, and illustrated by Nicole Neidhardt. (Centric Photography, Orca Book Publishers, nicoleneidhardt.com)

When We Are Kindis a picture book that walks children throughsimple acts of everyday kindness. Itwascreated with the aim toencouragechildren to explore their feelings and to use kindness each and every day.

When We Are Kindis for ages3-5.

When you can read it:Oct. 13, 2020

Monique Gray Smithis amixed-heritage Cree, Lakotaand Scottish author who often writes and speaks about the resilience of Indigenous communities in Canada. She is also the author of the children's booksSpeaking Our Truthand You Hold Me Up and the novels Tilly and Tilly and the Crazy Eights.

Nicole Neidhardt is a Dinvisual artist and illustrator.When We Are Kindis her first children's book.

The One with the Scraggly Beard by Elizabeth Withey, illustrated by Lynn Scurfield

The One with the Scraggly Beard is a picture book by Elizabeth Withey, illustrated by Lynn Scurfield. (Phil Crozier, Orca Book Publishers, Charlit Floriano)

The One with the Scraggly Beard is about understanding and being kinder to those whoaren't like us. A boy is confused about the man sleeping under the bridge and wonders to his mother why.

The One with the Scraggly Beardis for ages 3-5.

When you can read it:Oct. 13, 2020

Elizabeth Witheyis a Saskatoon journalist, author, visual artist and CBC Radio producer.The One with the Scraggly Beardis her first children's book.

Lynn Scurfieldis anartist and illustrator from Ontario. She also illustrated the picture bookAll the Ways Home by Elsie Chapman.

Once Upon an Hour by Ann Yu-Kyung Choi, illustrated by Soyeon Kim

Once Upon an Hour is a picture book by Ann Yu-Kyung Choi, illustrated by Soyeon Kim. (Orca Book Publishers)

In Once Upon an Hour, a young child named Yu-Rhee mustclimb the mountainside in search of a plant to heal their sick mother. TheKorean girlwants to learn more about the meaning of time and themountain itself calls upon the animals that live on the mountainside to help the child complete her mission.

Once Upon an Houris for ages 3-5.

When you can read it:Oct. 13, 2020

Ann Yu-Kyung Choiis a Canadian author originally from South Korea. Her debut novelKay's Lucky Coin Varietywas published in 2016.

Soyeon Kimis a Toronto-based, Korean-born artist and illustrator. She also illustrated A Last Goodbye, You Are Stardust and Wild Ideas, all by Elin Kelsey.

Hockey Night in Kenya by Danson Mutinda & Eric Walters, illustrated by Claudia Dvila

Hockey Night in Kenya is a picture book by Danson Mutinda, left, and Eric Walters, right, and illustrated by Claudia Dvila. (Kristina Laukkanen, Orca Book Publishers)

In Hockey Night in Kenya, twoorphans from Kenya, Kitoo and Nigosi, love to read, play soccer and help with chores around the orphanage. They discover a book called Sports Around the World and one of the children become fascinated withan image of the Canadian national men's ice hockey team. The boy teaches himself how to skate and dreams of one day playing hockey just like the players in the book.

Hockey Night in Kenyais for ages 6-8.

When you can read it:Oct. 16, 2020

Eric Walters is one of Canada's most prolific writers for young people. He's penned almost 100books, includingCamp X,The Power of ThreeandRun.Hockey Night in Kenyais one of two books Walters has on this list. The other isThe Boy Who Moved Christmas.

Danson Mutinda is an author based in Kenya. Hisparents, Ruth and Henry Kyatha, co-founded the Hope Development Centre orphanage with Eric and Anita Walters in 2007.

Claudia Dvilais a Toronto-based artist and illustrator. Her other books include Super Red Riding Hood and Child Soldier, which was written byMichel ChikwanineandJessica Dee Humphreys.

Cancer is a C Word by Sunita Pal, illustrated by Cody Andreasen

Cancer is a C Word is a picture book by Sunita Pal, illustrated by Cody Andreasen. (Rebel Mountain Press)

Cancer is a C Wordtakes on the sensitive issue of talking about tough topics with young children. The picture book introduces and explains what cancer is and how families are forced to deal with the subject and its impact on each other.

Cancer is a C Wordis for ages 3-8.

When you can read it:Oct. 15, 2020

Sunita Palis an author and educator based in Ontario. Her other books include My Pets, My Superhero and MyKing, all illustrated byPamela Pal.

Cody Andreasenis an artist and educator based in Alberta.Cancer is a C Wordis his first children's book.

The Boy Who Moved Christmas by Eric Walters & Nicole Wellwood,illustrated by Carloe Liu

The Boy Who Moved Christmas is a picture book by Eric Walters, centre, and Nicole Wellwood, left, pictured with her son Evan, illustrated by Carloe Liu, right. (Nimbus Publishing)

The Boy Who Moved Christmasisbased on the truestory of a little boy named Evan Leversage. Evan's family and community movedChristmas so he could celebrate after he became ill and wouldn't survive until the holidays.

The Boy Who Moved Christmasis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Oct. 16,2020

Walters is the author of nearly 100 books.The Boy Who Moved Christmasis one of two books Walters has on this list. The other isHockey Night in Kenya.

Nicole Wellwoodis a mother to three children and isan advocate for childhood cancer awareness. In 2015,she launched Evans Legacy in her son's honour.

CarloeLiuis a Halifax illustrator, printmaker and art teacher. She also illustrated the picture bookAlways With You by Walters.

The Fabled Stables: Willa the Wisp by Jonathan Auxier, illustrated by Olga Demidova

The Fabled Stables: Willa the Wisp is a book by Jonathan Auxier (pictured), illustrated by Olga Demidova (not pictured). (Libby Hilf, Puffin Canada)

The Fabled Stables: Willa the Wispis the first book ina newadventure series by Jonathan Auxier. The book is aboutAuggie Pound, aneight-year-old and who loves his job ofcaringfor all the rare magical animals in the Fabled Stables.One day, he sees an empty stall with the name of a new creature to rescue, setting him off on a magical adventure.

The Fabled Stables: Willa the Wispis for ages 6-9.

When you can read it:Oct.20, 2020

Auxieris a children's book author from Vancouver. He is also the author ofThe Night Gardener,Sophie Quire and the Last StoryguardandSweep.Sweepwon the2018 Governor General's Literary Award for young people's literature text. Auxierwrote an original short story calledVanishing Pointfor the specialCBC BooksseriesBorders.

Olga Demidovais a Russian-born artist and illustrator.

The Case of the Singing Ocean and The Case of The Buzzing Honey Makers by Tara Hungerford &Eric Hogan

The Case of the Singing Ocean and The Case of The Buzzing Honey Makers are two books in a nature mystery book series adapted from CBC's Gumboot Kids TV show. (Firefly Books)

The Case of the Singing Ocean and The Case of The Buzzing Honey Makersare the latest books based onchildren's television seriesThe Gumboot Kids. InThe Case of the Singing OceanDaisy and Scout try to solve a mystery based around water and inThe Case of The Buzzing Honey Makersthe pair figure out where honey comes from,

The Case of the Singing Ocean and The Case of The Buzzing Honey Makersarefor ages3-7.

When you can read it:Oct. 20, 2020

Eric Hogan and Tara Hungerford are a Vancouver husband-and-wife team who run production company Imagine Create Media and are the creators of children's television seriesThe Gumboot Kids.

Family for Faru by Anitha Rao-Robinson, illustrated by Karen Patkau

Family for Faru is a picture book by Anitha Rao-Robinson, illustrated by Karen Patkau. (Pajama Press, Alexandra Lagos)

Family for Farufollows a boy and anorphaned rhinoceros as they work to find a new herd for the baby animal.Tetenya and his mother helpFaru, a baby rhinoceros, who is alone on the savannah and in danger frompoachers lurking about the landscape.

Family for Faruis for ages 4-7.

When you can read it:Oct. 27, 2020

Anitha Rao-Robinson is a former accountant who now writeschildren's books. Her other books include Broken Promises and Broken Worlds.

Karen Patkauis a Canadian author, artist, designer and illustrator. She has written and illustrated several nature-themed books for children, including Ringtail, Creatures Great and Small and Who Needs and Iceberg?

Two Drops of Brown in a Cloud of White by Saumiya Balasubramaniam, illustrated by Eva Campbell

Two Drops of Brown in a Cloud of White is a picture book by Saumiya Balasubramaniam, illustrated by Eva Campbell. (Rajni Radja, Groundwood Books, Brian Geary)

Two Drops of Brown in a Cloud of Whiteis a touching story about a child and her mother living in a new country and encountering snow for the first time. While the mother misses the warmth of backhome, the girl sees magic in the winter sky of her new land.

Two Drops of Brown in a Cloud of Whiteis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Oct. 27, 2020

Saumiya Balasubramaniam is an author from Ontario. She is also the author the picture bookWhen I Found Grandma, which was illustrated by Qin Leng.

Eva Campbellis an artist and teacher from Victoria. Her work has been exhibited around the world, including in Canada, the U.S., the U.K., Barbados and Ghana. She also illustrated the picture bookAfricville, which was a finalist for the2018 Governor General's Literary Award for young people's literature illustrated booksand the2019 MarilynBailliePicture Book Award.

Teatime Around the World by Denyse Waissbluth, illustrated by Chelsea O'Byrne

Teatime Around the World is a picture book by Denyse Waissbluth, illustrated by Chelsea O'Byrne. (Greystone Kids, Ted Hayes)

Teatime Around the Worldintroduces children totea cultures from around the world.The picture book uses poetry accompanied by unique factsabout tea in different countries, such as in Tibet, the traditional tea, po cha, is thick and salty like soup, and in Iran tea is served with a rock candy.

Teatime Around the Worldis for ages 4-8.

When you can read it:Oct. 28, 2020

Denyse Waissbluthis a writerand journalist fromBritish Columbia.Teatime Around the Worldis her first children's book.

Chelsea O'Byrneis a Vancouverillustrator and art instructor. She also illustratedHello, Crow!by Candace Savage.

Wild Pond Hockey by Jeffrey C. Domm

Wild Pond Hockey is a picture book by Jeffrey Domm. (Nimbus Publishing)

Wild Pond Hockeyimagines the very first time hockey was played and it was with wolves. One icy day, a set of wolves seetwo ravens chisel away at a piece of ice on a frozen pond. What happens next is an exciting game of animal ice hockey witha chunk of ice as the puck.

Wild Pond Hockeyis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Oct. 31, 2020

Jeffrey C. Dommis a Nova Scotia author and illustrator. He has written more than 30 children's books, including Eagle of the Sea, Atlantic PuffinandThe Hatchling's Journey.

Snow Days by Deborah Kerbel, illustrated by Miki Sato

Snow Days is a picture book written by Deborah Kerbel, top right, and illustrated by Miki Sato, bottom right. (Pajama Press, Adrian Fiebig)

Snow Daysuses textured collage art and rhyming couplets to depict the joy and magic of the season called winter. The picture sees children marvelling at the fun winter can bring.

Snow Daysis for ages 2-5.

When you can read it:Nov. 2, 2020

Deborah Kerbelis a children's bookauthor from Ontario. Her other books includethe picture books Before You Were Born and Sun Dog,both illustrated by Suzanne Del Rizzo, the middle-grade books Feathered and Bye-Bye Evil Eye and the YA books Mackenzie, Lost and Found and Girl on the Other Side.

Miki Satois a Japanese Canadian illustrator originally from Ottawa.Her work has previously appeared in Today's Parent, Reader's Digest and the Walrus.

Find Fergus by Mike Boldt

Find Fergus is a picture book by Mike Boldt. (Doubleday Books for Young Readers)

InFind Fergus,children play an interactive game as the large and loveable Fergusattempts to hide within the picture book pages. It's a game oflook-and-find as readers are prompted to look everyone to find the furry creature.

Find Fergusis for ages 3-7.

When you can read it:Nov. 3, 2020

Mike Boldtis an author and illustrator from Alberta.

The Most Amazing Bird by Michael Arvaarluk Kusugak, illustrated by Andrew Qappik

The Most Amazing Bird is a picture book by Michael Arvaarluk Kusugak, illustrated by Andrew Qappik (not pictured). (Jose Kusugak, Annick Press)

The Most Amazing Birdisabout a young girl namedAggataa on a winter walk with hergrandmother. Along the way they seetulugarguat, the ravens. Aggataa thinks they are the ugliest birds that she'sever seen. But after connecting with one small raven, the girl discovers that there is beauty in all of nature's creatures.

The Most Amazing Birdis for ages 4-7.

When you can read it:Nov.10, 2020

Michael Kusugak grew up in Repulse Bay in what is now known asNunavut. Kusugak's stories explore the traditional Inuit way of life and he haswritten 12 books for children including his now classic debut bookA Promise Is A Promise, co-written by Robert Munsch and illustrated by VladyanaKrykorka.

Andrew Qappikis a Canadian Inuit graphic artist currently residing in Pangnirtung, Nunavut. He is a member of the Order of Canada.

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