Welcome to the April issue of Canadian Children’s Book News!
I have worn many hats during my time at the Canadian Children’s Book Centre. I started as an intern in 2002, transitioned to Program Coordinator not long after, and became the editor of Canadian Children’s Book News in 2020. Along the way, I’ve seen the CCBC celebrate its 30th and 40th anniversaries, and I’m grateful to be here as we mark our 50th.
The CCBC’s story began in 1976 with a six-month project called Canadian Books for Children, led by Irma McDonough, then Coordinator of Children’s Services for Ontario's Provincial Library Service. The goal was to build support for a centre dedicated to increasing knowledge of—and enthusiasm for—Canadian children’s books. After travelling across the country and gathering input from more than 3,000 groups and individuals, McDonough confirmed what many already believed: such a centre was not only wanted, but needed. From that vision, the CCBC was born.
I may be biased, but I believe the CCBC is an unsung hero in Canada’s children’s publishing landscape. Over the past five decades, we have brought hundreds of authors and illustrators to schools and libraries through Canadian Children’s Book Week, recommended thousands of titles through Best Books for Kids & Teens, and helped elevate Canadian children’s literature through our book awards.
This issue highlights just a few of the voices who have shaped—and continue to shape—that legacy. Gordon Korman, one of the most recognizable names in Canadian children’s literature, published his first book, This Can’t Be Happening at Macdonald Hall!, only a few years after the CCBC was established. Nearly 50 years and more than 100 books later, he shows no signs of slowing down.
We also hear from Jeffrey Canton, another long-time contributor to the Canadian children’s book community, who reflects on his relationship with the CCBC and the role it has played in shaping both his career and his sense of self.
In honour of National Poetry Month, our Keep Your Eye On spotlights Canadian author-poet Shannon Bramer, whose growing body of poetic work is capturing young imaginations.
Our Bookmark! list of new releases spans heartwarming picture books, lively middle-grade fiction, thought-provoking YA, and engaging non-fiction.
As always, you’ll also find reviews of new books to discover and enjoy.
Happy reading!
Shannon Barnes