Celebrate Canada: Explore the Nation with Summer Reading List

This summer, Canadians are encouraged to embrace the nation’s literary heritage with Megaphone Magazine’s annual reading list, which showcases authors from all ten provinces and three territories. This selection comes at a time when national pride is particularly poignant, following a controversial comment from former U.S. President Donald Trump. In his remarks, he suggested Canada could become the “51st state” of the United States to avoid tariffs, a statement that ignited widespread backlash across the country and reaffirmed Canadian sovereignty.

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly expressed the sentiment many Canadians felt, stating during an interview on BBC Two’s Newsnight, “This is not a joke anymore.” The comments not only incited anger but also played a significant role in shaping the political landscape, galvanizing citizens to vote for leaders who would defend Canadian interests. Ultimately, Mark Carney emerged as the victorious candidate in the federal elections, emphasizing that “Canada is not for sale.” This collective indignation has since fostered a renewed sense of Canadian identity and pride.

Literary Loyalty and Celebration of Canadian Identity

As the summer reading season unfolds, there is a unique opportunity to explore Canada’s diverse literature. Megaphone’s reading list highlights the country’s rich cultural tapestry through the voices of various authors, from the powerful poetry of Dionne Brand to the storytelling talents of Lawrence Hill.

Readers are invited to discover new Canadian authors or revisit familiar ones, with the chance to connect with stories that reflect the complexities of the nation. This year’s selection includes works from across Canada, each contributing to the larger narrative of what it means to be Canadian.

Spotlight on Notable Canadian Authors

Among the featured authors is Corinna Chong from Alberta, whose novel Bad Lands delves into themes of isolation and family secrets set against the captivating backdrop of Drumheller, famous for its fossil-rich landscapes. The protagonist, Regina, embodies the struggle of being misunderstood, mirroring the complexities of Canadian identity.

Another significant work comes from Canisia Lubrin, an Ontario-based poet whose debut, Code Noir, examines the legacy of slavery and colonization through a collection of short stories. The book draws inspiration from the historical Code Noir laws, blending past and present to highlight the resilience of Black communities.

In Quebec, Kevin Lambert tackles contemporary issues through his satirical novel May Our Joy Endure, which critiques gentrification and the housing crisis through the lens of an architect-turned-celebrity. His narrative invites readers to reflect on the intricacies of urban development and its societal impacts.

From Nova Scotia, Elaine McCluskey presents The Gift Child, a mystery that follows Harriett as she investigates her cousin’s bizarre disappearance. The story prompts readers to consider the nature of truth and family history.

Richard Van Camp represents the Northwest Territories with his young adult novel Beast, a haunting tale blending Indigenous culture with supernatural elements. The narrative centers on Lawson, a teenager navigating grief and the complexities of peace treaties among Indigenous communities.

This summer, Megaphone Magazine’s reading list serves not only as a guide to new books but also as a celebration of Canadian stories. Each selection reflects the nation’s vast cultural diversity, inviting readers to engage with the narratives that shape Canada’s identity. As Canadians gather to read, they simultaneously affirm their commitment to cultural heritage and national pride.

As the summer unfolds, pick up a book from this list to deepen your understanding of Canada and its people. Explore the stories that resonate with the heart of the nation and celebrate a diverse literary landscape.