As the new year unfolds, a fresh batch of captivating stories awaits young readers across Canada. Barbra Hesson has curated a selection of standout children's books for January 2026, offering a mix of prehistoric poetry, heartfelt lessons, and thrilling sci-fi adventures. These new releases promise to spark imagination and deliver powerful messages.
Poetry and Prehistoric Fun: "Dinos That Drive"
Kicking off the list is "Dinos That Drive" by Suzy Levinson, with illustrations by Dustin Harbin and published by Tundra Books. This engaging poetry collection reimagines a world where fast-moving dinosaurs take to the roads, skies, and seas. Designed for easy reading, the book is packed with vivid and amusing illustrations that bring these ancient creatures to life in modern scenarios.
Beyond the fun, young readers will find helpful pronunciations and fascinating facts about their favourite dinosaurs. It's presented as a delightful way to blend reading, learning, and imagining a world shared with these unique, extinct giants.
A Lesson in Empathy: "One Can"
Next is a touching picture book titled "One Can", authored by Lana Button and Eric Walters, with pictures by Isabelle Malenfant from Groundwood Books. The story follows a young boy who experiences a moment of insight during a school food drive.
He is surprised to see the very can he donated later appear in his own family's grocery bag. His mother uses this moment to teach a compassionate lesson: even those who need help can still find ways to give to others. This message is beautifully reinforced when the boy decides to gift his new mittens to a classmate. With its softly coloured illustrations, the book gently imparts themes of empathy, giving, and receiving with gratitude.
Lunar Mystery and Time-Travel Thrills
For middle-grade readers seeking adventure, two novels offer high-stakes excitement. First is the graphic novel "Space Case" by Stuart Gibbs, illustrated by Ward Jenkins and published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.
The protagonist, Dashiell Gibson, finds life on a moon base less thrilling than expected—until he overhears a scientist's exciting discovery. When that scientist is found dead, Dash is convinced it's murder. Teaming up with a friend and a security specialist, he uncovers secrets that threaten everyone on the base. This fast-paced mystery is packed with action and includes intriguing details about space travel.
The final pick is "Time Surfers" by Kevin Sylvester from HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. It follows Caleb and his father, John, who are part of a secret team that surfs through time to rescue historical treasures. The work is so dangerous that Caleb's mother never returned from a mission.
When Caleb sneaks onto a trip to save scrolls from the Great Library of Alexandria, a stowaway returns with them, breaking a cardinal rule. This mistake jeopardizes his father's career and their safety, leading to the revelation of shocking family secrets. This science fiction tale is described as a gripping, fast-paced read that will keep enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.
Barbra Hesson's January 2026 selections highlight the diversity and quality of contemporary children's publishing. From picture books with soft lessons to illustrated novels bursting with action, these titles are poised to become new favourites on Canadian bookshelves.
