The Strangers by Katherena Vermette

Our Best Book of the Year, this captivating novel traces the entwined lives of four Métis women living in Winnipeg. Exploring themes of race and class, Vermette brings a deeply human perspective to the heartbreaking reality of intergenerational trauma in Indigenous communities.

Unreconciled by Jesse Wente

In his debut memoir, Ojibwe writer, broadcaster, and producer Jesse Wente fuses pop culture criticism with details about life as an Indigenous man born and raised in Toronto. Readers will be swept away by Wente’s story, which returns again and again to the idea that Indigenous creation can be used as a tool to fight colonial violence.

Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad

Journalist Suleika Jaouad has touched our hearts this year with her moving debut memoir. After surviving leukemia, Jaouad embarked on a cross-country road trip in search of the meaning behind her new lease on life. An unforgettable non-fiction book, this memoir takes readers along on her inspiring journey.

The Apollo Murders by Chris Hadfield

This historical, action-packed thriller is renowned Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield’s first fiction book. Set in the ’70s, it centres around the space race, featuring throwback science, inventions, and shocking discoveries. Perfect for every aspiring astronaut.

Dark Roads by Chevy Stevens

Haunting and suspenseful, this gripping thriller is set in British Columbia’s majestic north along the fictional Cold Creek Highway. The story follows two young women who navigate the realities of a town where people continue to go missing—or be found dead.

One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston

From the bestselling author of Red, White and Royal Blue comes another fun and playful story—and it’s already a hit on #BookTok. This quirky, genre-defying LGBTQ2S+ rom-com is about friendship and found families.

She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan

Set in 14th-century Asia, this historical fantasy follows a young girl who takes up the mantle of her brother’s fate, bending it to her will. For fans of Game of Thrones and Song of Achilles, this book is packed with political mind games, queer romance, and enthralling fantasy.

The Bomber Mafia by Malcolm Gladwell

Acclaimed writer Malcolm Gladwell turns his focus to WWII and the incalculable wages of war in this exhilarating new read. Weaving together historical references, he explores the impacts of innovation and technology during conflicts, and the resulting moral consequences.

Bewilderment by Richard Powers

Pulitzer Prize-winner Richard Powers’ latest literary fiction tells the story of an astrobiologist and his young son. Poetic and lyrical, the book follows his search for life on other planets, exploring themes of modern science, nature, stewardship, and grief. It’s been shortlisted for this year’s Booker Prize.