01 Dec 2025 Youth of the Month: Canaan Gilbert
By Mark Oliver
At just 14 years old, Greenbrier’s Canaan Gilbert has already accomplished what many adults dream of: He’s published two books, earned a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo and helped launch a YouTube channel.
And he’s just getting started.
With a third book already written and more in the works, Canaan’s creative energy is matched only by his deep faith and the support of his family.
“I was 11 when I wrote my first book, ‘The Dino Life,’” he said. “As a kid, I always enjoyed telling stories and drawing comics. With a little help from my parents, they encouraged me to bring my creativity to life.”
Inspired by dinosaur adventures like “Jurassic Park,” Canaan crafted a compelling action-adventure story with heart and consequence that is impressively deep for a first-time author.
“‘The Dino Life’ serves as a reminder of how the decisions you make affect everyone around you,” he said. “Pride and arrogance, when kept unchecked, can hurt others you care about. I’m really proud of this story and the message within it.”
Released in October 2023 through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing, “The Dino Life” quickly found success across the 501 and became the springboard for Canaan’s creative journey.
“I really enjoyed the experience of publishing my first book,” he said. “As soon as I finished ‘The Dino Life,’ I immediately began working on my next book. Whenever it did well, especially locally, I thought, ‘Why not keep going?’”
Released in November 2024, Canaan’s second feature, “Daniel and the Dream,” marks an emotional and powerful shift in tone and highlights the youngster’s creative range. Drawing inspiration from one of his favorite Bible verses, the book explores themes of loss and spiritual growth through fantasy and allegory.
“I wanted to write a story about overcoming life’s most difficult moments,” Canaan said. “When really sad and hard things happen, they test your courage, your friendship and your faith. John 16:33 says, ‘I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.’ Through adversity, Daniel learns to become strong and fearless and reconnect with his faith.”
With each book he writes, Canaan deepens his understanding as an author while sharpening his skills as a creative young voice.
“From my first book to my second book, my writing style changed to be a little more serious, but I still like to include humor,” he said. “I’m learning to provide more complete and interesting worlds that can span across multiple books.”
Canaan’s creative pursuits don’t stop at writing. He’s one of the minds behind the family’s Super Gilbert Bros. YouTube channel, where he, his dad, Levi, and his siblings, Declan and Everly, livestream video games, share movie reviews and celebrate family milestones.
“The YouTube channel began as my idea originally but has grown into a group effort for our family,” Canaan said. “My dad and brother help with editing, and we all have a hand in creating content and trying new things.”
For eight years, he has also trained in martial arts and recently earned his second-degree black belt in Taekwondo. His siblings are following in his footsteps, too. Declan holds a first-degree black belt, while Everly recently began her training.
“I’ve been interested in writing a book based on my experience in Taekwondo,” Canaan said. “Sparring and learning new things is exciting. There is a lot of patience involved. While it’s tough in the moment, it’s worth it later on.”
Balancing writing, YouTube and Taekwondo might seem daunting for any teenager, but homeschooling gives him the flexibility to pursue his passions.
“Part of the freedom of homeschooling means that I have more time to focus on the things I’m passionate about,” Canaan said. “It’s all about juggling priorities, which I’m learning to get better at every day.”
In the future, he plans not only to release sequels to his current books but also to co-write a new series with his brother, Declan.
“I love writing and I am excited that my siblings are beginning to write, too,” Canaan said. “We are currently working out the details of the story we want to tell, and I can’t wait to see what it becomes.”
Looking ahead, he envisions expanding his storytelling to the silver screen.
“I’ve always loved movies,” he said. “It would be cool to take my ideas and turn them into something that people can see.”
Canaan’s books are available for purchase online on Amazon or locally at Bean’s Books in Pickles Gap. For behind-the-scenes updates and news on upcoming releases, follow @CanaanGilbertAuthor on Instagram. For more creative content, check out the Super Gilbert Bros. on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.
- Youth of the Month: Canaan Gilbert - December 1, 2025
- Going the Extra Myles - November 4, 2025
- Strength in service - September 30, 2025
