When exploring what Canadian authors have to offer, it’s impossible not to notice the range of voices that have shaped the country’s literature. From the North to the lively cities, Canadian authors offer stories that reflect the country’s unique history and multicultural identity. Whether through Indigenous storytelling, bilingual works, or the narratives of everyday life, Canadian literature is as diverse as the people who call it home.
Choosing a handful of authors to highlight was no small feat. With so many exceptional voices to consider, we found ourselves drawn to a mix of classic and contemporary figures whose works capture the essence of Canada in all its complexity. What follows is a list of 20 must-read Canadian authors whose contributions to literature continue to resonate both within Canada and beyond its borders. If you're looking to dive into the richness of Canadian storytelling, here are 20 books you can buy online, available as used books or new, to buy and read.
