Calling All Youngest Siblings: “The League of Littles”, a graphic novel by Casey Lyall

There is something universally relatable about sibling dynamics, whether you are the youngest trying to be heard or the older one setting the rules. Canadian author Casey Lyall taps into that shared experience with humour, heart, and imagination in The League of Littles, a graphic novel nominated for the 2026 Silver Birch Express Award for grades 3 - 4 as part of the Forest of Reading program. With themes of friendship, teamwork, and perspective, this middle grade graphic novel invites young readers into a playful world that feels both larger than life and deeply familiar. If you have ever wondered what it might be like if the youngest siblings had their own secret society, keep reading for an exclusive interview with Canadian author Casey Lyall — where we also get a sneak peek at the upcoming sequel, The Band of Bigs.

Parents and educators will find The League of Littles especially meaningful for young readers who are beginning to read more independently. Graphic novels continue to surge in popularity, and for good reason. Graphic novels are a powerful tool for engaging reluctant readers through accessible visuals and clear story flow, while also challenging strong readers to sharpen their skills, deepen comprehension, and pay closer attention to detail. Check out our recent discussion with Johnnie Christmas on the Power of Graphic Novels as an enrichment tool for young readers. The in-person and online tutoring team at Teachers on Call recommends books like these because they blend humour and action with relatable social themes, helping students connect emotionally while developing literacy skills. Research continues to highlight how graphic novels support comprehension, build confidence, and keep readers engaged, read more about it here. It’s a wonderful choice for students in Grades 3 to 4 who enjoy fast-paced, visually engaging storytelling. 

Why the Forest of Reading Inspires Young Canadian Readers

Canada’s love of reading shines through the Forest of Reading  program, an initiative led by the Ontario Library Association. As the country’s largest recreational reading program, it brings together students from across Canada to discover outstanding Canadian literature. With ten award categories in English and French, the program celebrates authors and illustrators while empowering young readers to vote for their favourite books each year. This student-driven approach makes reading feel personal and exciting. The program culminates in the Forest of Reading Festival at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8), where thousands gather to celebrate stories and storytelling. At Teachers on Call, we are proud to support initiatives that highlight Canadian voices and inspire a lifelong love of reading.

About the Author

Casey Lyall is a Canadian author who lives in Southwestern Ontario, where she also works at her local library as a branch assistant. Her work often centres on humour and imaginative storytelling for young readers. Casey has written several beloved books, including Howard Wallace, P.I. series and Gnome Is Where Your Heart Is. Her experience working directly with young readers informs her engaging and accessible writing style.

About the Book

The League of Littles introduces readers to a secret international organization dedicated to protecting youngest siblings everywhere. When a classmate loses her sister’s hamster, three trainees must complete their first mission before the rival Band of Bigs finds out. Filled with humour, action, and heart, the story captures the ups and downs of sibling relationships in a way that feels both exciting and authentic. The book has also been recognized as one of the 50 most anticipated kids graphic novels, highlighting its excitement within the growing world of children’s graphic literature.

Read our Exclusive Interview with Casey Lyall, Graphic Novelist for Middle Grade Readers

The League of Littles is such a fun and imaginative idea. What inspired you to create a secret organization devoted to protecting youngest siblings?

I wanted to dive into a new project that was totally fun and silly so I let my mind wander like I always do when I'm brainstorming and the idea just popped into my head. My sisters and I have a few running jokes about oldest versus middle versus youngest siblings so that definitely came into play plus I've always loved funny spy stories and comics like Spy vs Spy from Mad Magazine. I also love stories where kids have this entire universe that grown-ups are on the periphery of - Recess, one of my favourite cartoons when I was younger, is a great example of that - and it was something I really enjoyed playing around with.

The book is packed with humour, action, and friendship. How do you balance all of those elements while still telling a story that feels meaningful for young readers?

I think there's a lot of connection to be had through humour and friendship that can make a story feel fun and grounded all at the same time. The characters operate within these cool, extraordinary organizations, but they're still regular kids and the problems that they're helping to solve are still everyday problems. They just happen to use awesome methods. 

Sibling relationships are at the heart of this graphic novel. What do you hope kids learn about family dynamics, teamwork, and understanding each other through Lexi, Mo, and Eli’s adventure?

Perspective is everything and I think that's a theme that will be underscored as the series goes on. Just because you see something a certain way doesn't mean that's the only way of looking at it. That's something important to remember both with family dynamics and teamwork, for sure. And along the same line, knowing that everyone brings different skills to the table, like we see with Lexi, Mo, and Eli, and that the path to success is found by letting those things complement each other. 

Graphic novels can be such an engaging format for newly independent readers. What excites you most about telling stories through both words and illustrations?

I think the answer is right there in the question with the word engaging. I really love how immersive a graphic novel is for readers and how accessible as well. My favourite thing about working on graphic novels is the partnership between writer and illustrator. It's such an interesting process to go through as a writer and watching the whole story gradually come to life, step by step, was a wonderful experience. I think it's just as engaging for us as it is for readers! 

Sara Faber’s artwork brings so much energy and personality to the story. How do the illustrations help shape the humour and action in The League of Littles?

YES!!! Sara did such an amazing job and I absolutely loved how she brought the characters to life. I think she's amazing at facial expressions and body language which really help to make a joke land and to make the action feel fluid. Her art pulls you right in.

Since you work at a local library, you get to see firsthand what captures young readers’ attention. Has working in that environment influenced the kinds of stories you choose to write?

When it comes down to the actual idea, I pretty much always work on whatever is sparking joy for my brain at the time. If a plot bunny appears, I'm going to chase it down. I think working in a library definitely influenced my decision specifically to try working on a graphic novel because I've seen how much kids enjoy them and the accessibility factor was pretty big for me. 

If you could give youngest siblings everywhere one piece of advice after reading The League of Littles, what would it be?

If you come across a trainable hamster, recruit that little buddy immediately.

You live in southwestern Ontario. Is there a favourite local spot where you like to write, doodle, or dream up hilarious ideas for your stories?

I like a quiet space to work so my favourite place is actually my office! I'm also a total night owl so it's the only place open late enough.

What’s next for Casey Lyall? 

I'm very excited to say that the sequel to The League of Littles, The Band of Bigs, comes out this summer on June 23, 2026. The usual suspects are back along with some new faces and some brand new problems. In terms of what I'm writing right now, I've got a few fun and funny new projects that I'm digging into and I hope I'll have some news for you soon!

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The League of Littles is a joyful celebration of imagination, humour, and the uniquely Canadian voices shaping children’s literature today. With its engaging graphic format and relatable themes, it is an excellent choice for young readers building confidence and discovering the fun of reading. At Teachers on Call, we love highlighting Canadian authors like Casey Lyall whose stories spark curiosity and connection. Whether you are a student, parent, or educator, this book is sure to bring laughs and meaningful conversations about family, teamwork, and seeing the world from new perspectives.

Looking to explore more Silver Birch Express nominated books from the Forest of Reading program? Check out our interviews with  Surrey-based Heather Tekavec for This is How a Ball Rolls, or with Vancouver-locals Angela Ahn for Julia on the Go! The Big Splash and Salma Speaks Up by Danny Ramadan.