Move over, unicorns and robots – there’s a new kid stealing the spotlight. Meet Billie, a determined, imaginative, and endlessly entertaining young girl who never lets a little thing like reality get in her way.

When obstacles pop up, Billie always finds a solution. No instruments for the band? She’ll make her own. Flat tire on her bike? No problem – she has other creative ways to get around. And when a move means leaving behind her best friend, Billie comes up with what she believes is the perfect answer: building a brand-new friend herself.

Enter RoboCorn – a robot unicorn extraordinaire. He’s loyal, adventurous, can hold a conversation, leap over the sun, and even whip up pancakes. In Billie’s eyes, he’s everything a best friend should be. So, who needs new human friends?
Packed with humour, heart, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, this charming picture book explores friendship, resilience, and the challenges that come with change. Young readers will instantly connect with Billie’s larger-than-life personality and boundless creativity, while parents will appreciate the gentle message about opening yourself up to new connections.

Billie is the kind of character kids won’t soon forget – and RoboCorn? Let’s just say he’s unlike any sidekick you’ve ever met. In the very best way.

About the Author

José Avelino Gilles Corbett Lourenço is a Toronto-based writer and filmmaker with a talent for finding humour and heart in everyday life. His debut feature film, Young Werther, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and went on to earn international attention before being released in theatres around the world. Before moving into filmmaking, Lourenço wrote as a columnist for the Toronto Star, with his work also appearing in publications including McSweeney’s, Hazlitt, The Globe and Mail, and National Post. These days, he works across film, television, publishing, and advertising.

James Braithwaite, the illustrator behind Billie’s delightfully quirky world, is an animator, writer, and artist who also calls Toronto home. Throughout his career, his work has been nominated for an Oscar, exhibited at the Guggenheim, and even earned him an Emmy Award.

Just the Facts

Billie Builds a RoboCorn – Debut Picture Book
By José Avelino Gilles Lourenço, Illustrated by James Braithwaite
Published by Tundra Books
Suitable for ages 3-7
40 pages $24.99 Hardcover
Available on amazon.ca and Indigo/Chapters
Released on April 14, 2026