Canada Reads
Canada Reads is a lively and engaging literary event that captures the nation’s attention. It brings together readers, authors, and celebrities to champion the best Canadian books.
This annual competition pits five books against each other, each defended by a well-known Canadian. The goal is simple: to choose a book that the entire country should read.
Canada Reads highlights important stories that reflect Canada’s diversity and culture. It encourages reading and sparks meaningful discussions about identity, history, and society.
The debates are spirited, the discussions are thoughtful, and the outcome always sparks conversation. Canada Reads is more than just a battle of books; it’s a celebration of storytelling and a showcase of Canadian voices.
The event also spotlights Canadian authors, giving them a chance to reach a broader audience. Celebrating this day reminds us of the joy and importance of reading in our daily lives.
How to Celebrate Canada Reads
Host a Book Battle Bash
Why not throw a Canada Reads-inspired party? Gather a group of friends, each bringing a favorite Canadian book. Everyone gets a few minutes to defend their chosen title. Debate, laugh, and see who can sway the crowd. Add snacks, and you’ve got a fun night of literary duels!
Tune In and Talk It Out
Watch the Canada Reads debates together, whether online or on TV. Make it an event with popcorn and cozy blankets. After each round, discuss who made the best argument. Did the right book get eliminated, or was there a shocking twist?
Start a Book Club
Start a Canada Reads book club! Pick a book from past or present contenders. Meet weekly to chat about the story, the characters, and the themes. It’s a great way to connect with others and dive deep into Canadian literature.
Create a Reading Challenge
Challenge yourself or friends to read all five Canada Reads books before the winner is announced. Race to the finish line and compare notes. Who will finish first, and who will be the last page-turner?
Support Local Authors
Visit a local bookstore or library and pick up a book by a Canadian author. Better yet, choose one from a previous Canada Reads list. Supporting local writers is a great way to celebrate the event and discover new favorites.
History of Canada Reads
Canada Reads began in 2002, created by CBC, Canada’s national broadcaster, to promote Canadian literature in an exciting and engaging way. The idea was simple yet powerful: to bring together five well-known Canadians to defend five different books.
Over several days, these defenders debate the merits of their chosen book, aiming to convince the nation that their book is the one every Canadian should read. At the end of the debates, one book is crowned the winner.
Since its beginnings, Canada Reads has grown into a cultural phenomenon. The program promotes reading and sparks national conversations about important social issues.
Each year, the selected books often touch on themes that resonate with current events or broader societal challenges, making the debates both timely and meaningful.
The event has introduced countless readers to new authors and stories they might not have otherwise discovered.
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