February 2026 Children's Book Releases: A Diverse Literary Landscape
As February 2026 approaches, Canadian readers can anticipate an exciting array of new children's literature hitting bookstore shelves. This month's selections span multiple age groups and genres, offering everything from humorous picture books to thought-provoking young adult novels. The following four titles represent some of the most anticipated releases, each bringing unique perspectives and storytelling approaches to young readers across the country.
Lena The Chicken (But Really a Dinosaur)
Authored by Linda Bailey with illustrations by K-Fai Steele, this delightful picture book from Tundra Books introduces readers to Lena, a chicken who firmly believes she's actually a dinosaur. The story follows Lena as she stands up for herself on the farm, even chasing humans when necessary. When a weasel threatens the henhouse, all the other chickens panic, but Lena responds with a mighty roar that sends the predator fleeing.
The narrative cleverly weaves in educational elements, as character Madeline discovers that chickens are among the closest living relatives to dinosaurs. Through bold, comical illustrations and humorous storytelling, this book encourages children to think big and believe in themselves while teaching valuable lessons about self-defense and collective strength.
Bud Finds Her Gift
Written by Robin Wall Kimmerer and illustrated by Naoko Stoop, this Allida publication tells the story of Bud, who seeks guidance from her Nokomis (grandmother) about finding meaningful purpose in life. Her grandmother introduces her to the Earth's offerings, teaching Bud to engage all her senses in experiencing the world around her.
As Bud learns to see with her eyes, feel with her hands, listen attentively, and connect with her heart, she begins noticing her environment in remarkable detail. She observes birds, seeds, soil, and flowers with newfound appreciation, ultimately realizing that these discoveries represent gifts within herself that she can share with others. This gentle narrative encourages mindfulness and environmental awareness.
A Language of Dragons
S.F. Williamson's novel from Harper transports readers to 1923 London, where citizens coexist with dragons in a society divided by class following a recent war. When protagonist Viv's family is arrested as rebels, she agrees to work as a top-secret codebreaker, tasked with cracking the dragon language to gain strategic advantage in the ongoing conflict.
The story unfolds as Viv navigates forbidden romance and reunites with a friend she previously betrayed. Through her experiences, she becomes increasingly aware of the inequality within the tiered social structure and the unfair treatment of dragons. This old-world dark academia fantasy promises to captivate readers who enjoy intricate world-building and has already generated anticipation for its planned sequel featuring more dragon encounters.
Beth Is Dead
This young adult mystery from Katie Bernet and Simon & Schuster employs an innovative narrative structure, telling the story from four different perspectives through alternating past-and-present chapters. The plot centers on sisters Jo, Amy, Meg, and Beth, each with distinct dreams and aspirations.
Their lives transform dramatically when their father publishes a bestselling book about them, and then change irrevocably when Beth is found murdered. The narrative slowly reveals characters before the death occurs, with family members, close associates, fans, and opponents of the controversial book all becoming potential suspects. As the surviving sisters attempt to uncover who killed their beloved Beth, readers are drawn into a fast-paced plot featuring romance, rivalries, and sabotage that will keep them guessing until the final pages.
These February 2026 releases demonstrate the continuing vitality and diversity of children's literature in Canada, offering young readers engaging stories that entertain while addressing themes of identity, environmental connection, social justice, and family dynamics.
