Kirkus Reviews has given This Is a Library Book (TIALB) a starred review prior to its publication in October 2026.
You can read the full review on the Kirkus Reviews website. It will also be featured in the June 2026 edition of Kirkus Reviews magazine.
Kirkus said TIALB gives a “shoutout to libraries as centers for learning and for fostering community spirit,” and calls the book a “wide-ranging love letter.”
TIALB is joyously illustrated by Chanelle Nibbelink and published by Kids Can Press. It was edited (and elevated!) by Kathleen Keenan and designed by Andrew Dupuis at KCP.
“I cannot imagine a review that would strike the heart more lovingly of ten-year-old me than this one by Kirkus,” said Grant. “’Doing libraries proud’ is exactly what I hoped to do. Show all the ways in which libraries make our lives better–from helping people feel safe, to supporting marginalized communities, to spreading joy and, of course, knowledge.
“I hope that every librarian sees themself and their library in this book, in some way,” says Grant.
“TIALB is not only a celebration of libraries, but also a recognition of librarians as the superheroes they are,” says Grant.
“Librarians tend to meet you where you are. They lead with patience and empathy, even if they’ve been asked the same question a million times that day. They know where things are, they speak the language of research and they always have resources up their sleeves that you would have a hard time finding yourself. They are trained and educated in how to recognize and frame what we’re looking for, and to not just find it but to know about it–or know where to find that information. That’s what I mean by superpowers.
“Unfortunately, many books, libraries and librarians are under attack these days. Librarians are being harassed and even sued for simply doing their jobs. It seems like a no-brainer to protect, rather than attack, librarians. It seems unthinkable that anyone would target them,” says Grant. “I hope this book lets them know how much they are respected and appreciated.
“When I was growing up, the library was my favourite place in the world. It was full of everything I loved! Librarians saw me, and supported me and helped me not just find what I needed but often what I didn’t even know I needed.
“My first school librarian was at North Bendale Jr. P.S. in Scarborough. I dedicated the book to that librarian, Mr. Dyck, as well as to all librarians, and anyone who wants to become a librarian. I haven’t been able to track him down yet, but I would dearly love to find him so I could let him know what his support meant to me.
“Thank you to the entire team who helped to create this love-letter 💌 to libraries and librarians, and thank-you to Kirkus for recognizing the careful research that went into this book as well as the love. Thank you!”
The review’s star makes This Is a Library Book eligible for the Kirkus Prize which, with its $50,000 award, is one of the richest literary prizes in the world.
This Is A Library Book is available now for pre-order at your local independent bookstore or online. For links to pre-order, visit my Book Page here.
