Canada Reads 2026, the annual Canadian book debate, will take place from April 13 to 16. This year’s theme emphasizes connection, as the event seeks to champion a book that fosters understanding and unity.
Overview of Canada Reads
Canada Reads features five Canadian celebrities, each selecting a book they believe all Canadians should read. Over the course of four days, they will debate their selections, with one book being eliminated each day. The last remaining book will be declared the winner.
Broadcast Details
- Host: Ali Hassan
- Debate Format: Live debates at 10:05 a.m. ET daily
- Broadcast Platforms:
- YouTube
- CBC Gem
- CBC Radio One
- CBC TV
- CBC Listen
- Radio Timings:
- 10:05 a.m. in Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific time zones.
- 11:05 a.m. in Nunavut and the Maritimes.
- 1:05 p.m. in Labrador.
- 1:35 p.m. in Newfoundland.
- TV Timings:
- 1 p.m. local time in Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific time zones.
- 2 p.m. in the Atlantic time zone.
- 2:30 p.m. in Newfoundland.
- Podcast: Daily episodes will be available after the live airing.
2026 Contenders
- A Minor Chorus by Billy-Ray Belcourt, championed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers
- A novel exploring Indigenous and queer experiences through the lens of homecoming and connection.
- Searching for Terry Punchout by Tyler Hellard, championed by Steve (Dangle) Glynn
- A story about reconciliation and familial ties, centered on a troubled sports writer returning to his roots.
- The Cure for Drowning by Loghan Paylor, championed by Tegan Quin
- A historical novel that navigates complex relationships during wartime, with an emphasis on queer representation.
- Foe by Iain Reid, championed by Josh Dela Cruz
- A speculative thriller that delves into themes of technology and human relationships in a future setting.
- It’s Different This Time by Joss Richard, championed by Morgann Book
- A romantic narrative about reconnecting past lovers and exploring themes of time and personal growth.
Author Highlights
Billy-Ray Belcourt, known for winning the Griffin Poetry Prize, and Tegan Quin, of the popular duo Tegan and Sara, are among the notable figures participating in this year’s event. Each author brings a unique perspective to their book, fostering crucial discussions about identity and personal history.
Accessible Formats
For those requiring accessible formats, CELA and NNELS offer books in audio, braille, and other formats. All titles are available for purchase in print, e-book, and audiobook formats at local bookstores and libraries.
Canada Reads 2026 promises to be a compelling event, celebrating literature’s ability to connect Canadians through storytelling.
