The Next Chapter from CBC Radio

For most of her writing life Patricia Finn wrote and polished other people's stories. But this spring she stepped out of the shadows with the publication of her debut novel. It's called The Golden Boy and it follows a television executive who, after losing his job, inherits the grandchildren of his deceased friend. Patricia joins the show to tell us about The Golden Boy and recommend a companion read. Plus, author Uzma Jalaluddin shares what Gen Z slang she's picked up from her kids while answering The Next Chapter's version of the Proust Questionnaire.Books discussed on this week's show include:No Great Mischief by Alistair MacLeodThe Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran DesaiMoonlight Murder by Uzma JalaluddinLiked this conversation? Keep listening:The author behind Lucky reveals how she helped cast Anya Taylor-JoyThe book that inspired Carley Fortune's writing careerCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

In April, two Canada Reads nominated authors took the stage in Whitehorse to discuss their books in front of a packed live audience. The evening featured a conversation between Loghan Paylor, author of The Cure for Drowning, and Billy-Ray Belcourt, the author of A Minor Chorus. Both novels explore what it means to find a sense of home, and how that quest can impact who we become. The event was called Homecoming, and with the help of CBC host Leonard Linklater, the authors sat down to discuss the themes of home, identity and belonging in their characters' lives, and in their own.Books discussed on this week's show include:The Cure for Drowning by Loghan PaylorA Minor Chorus by Billy-Ray BelcourtLiked this conversation? Keep listening:How iconic musician Tegan Quin plans to tackle Canada ReadsWhy Elle-Maija Tailfeathers says A Minor Chorus is the story Canada needs to hear right nowCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Ten years ago, more than 11 million Canadians tuned in to CBC for the live airing of The Tragically Hip's final concert of their Man Machine Poem tour in Kingston, Ontario. Since then, this performance has held a special place in the minds of many Canadians and more. Michael Barclay is a writer and long time fan of the band. He wanted to make sure that the iconic Canadian band's history was being documented, so he wrote a book. It's called The Never Ending Present: The Story of Gord Downie and the Tragically Hip. It guides readers through the history of the band, their music and offers a window into the music scene at that time. He talks about the band's legacy and what made the Hip Canada's band.Books discussed on this week's show include:The Never Ending Present: The Story of Gord Downie and the Tragically Hip by Michael BarclayRough Description by Don PyleLiked this conversation? Keep listening:Canadian fiddle legend Natalie MacMaster shares her life in booksWhat is the greatest Canadian novel of all time?Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Some books change your mind. Others simply reinforce what you already know. The Next Chapter's columnist Nathan Maharaj joins the show to talk about two books that challenged his assumptions and altered his perspective. Nathan is a lifelong bookseller and the director of content marketing at Rakuten Kobo. He'll discuss why challenging your beliefs is important and how it can lead to a broader worldview. Plus, Toronto artist Mah Moud stops by to talk about a mysterious book from his parents bookshelf, and how the impact of a good novel can last for generations.Books discussed on this week's show include:Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado PerezHow Great Things Happen by George NewmanLiked this conversation? Keep listening:Can reading be the first step to making real change?What is the greatest Canadian novel of all time?Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

A few years ago Marissa Stapley heard a radio story about an unclaimed winning lottery ticket, which planted the seed for her novel, Lucky. Since then, the book has become a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick and was recently adapted into a star-studded Apple TV series starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Drew Starkey. Lucky is the novel that changed Marissa Stapley's life, and today she joins the show to talk about it, her time in Hollywood and where she plans to take her beloved character next. Marissa will also share a few titles she's reading this Summer. Plus, Nick Frosst, lead singer from the Toronto band Good Kid stops by to recommend a book that has changed his perspective on human pre-history. Books discussed on this week's show include:Lucky by Marissa StapleyDefinitely Thriving by Kerry ClareStrangers in the Villa by Robyn HardingThe Dawn of Everything by David Graeber and David WengrowLiked this conversation? Keep listening:The book that inspired Carley Fortune's writing careerWhy does Nita Prose call herself an accidental writer?Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Is there one meal that reminds you of home? A dish that brings back childhood memories? For CBC Books producer Talia Kliot, it's a shortbread, sour cream and walnut cake that makes an appearance at her family's special milestones. Talia is obsessed with the way that food helps us tell stories and even made a radio documentary about it, where she speaks to writers, an academic and a video game designer. She joined Antonio Michael Downing on The Next Chapter to share what made her hungry for these stories in the first place … and why food is the best way to connect.Books discussed on this week's show include:Restaurant Kid by Rachel PhanHow to Share an Egg by Bonny ReichertPoutine by Justin Giovannetti LamotheLiked this conversation? Keep listening: The books that fire up chef Michael SmithIs food the closest thing to teleportation?Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Set in late-20th-century Cairo, Éric Chacour's novel What I know About You is a heartbreaking story of an impossible love and a family fractured by secrets and expectations. It was selected for One eRead Canada's live digital book club, which brings libraries and readers together. Originally written in French, the book's translator, Pablo Strauss joins the discussion to share what it was like recreating the world in English for a conversation hosted by the Mississauga Library.Books discussed on this week's show include:What I Know About You by Éric ChacourCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Did you know that Ernest Hemingway wrote for the Toronto Star? The iconic cigar-smoking, bull-fighting American writer spent two separate stints living in Canada. It was partly while living and working in Toronto that he developed his stripped-down, sparse writing style. Author and Hemingway expert Terry Fallis reflects on the writer's larger than life reputation and his time spent in Toronto ahead of the upcoming International Hemingway Society Conference. Plus, CBC producer Christine Pagulayan talks about the latest trend to hit the world of romance. Books discussed on this week's show include:And Then There Were None by Agatha ChristieLittle Face by Sophie HannahBefore You Go to Sleep by S. J. WatsonLife After Life by Kate AtkinsonIt's Not What You Think by Clare MackintoshCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Clare Mackintosh joined the police force by accident. But taking what she learned over a 12 year career and using it to become a bestselling mystery and crime writer, was no accident. Nine novels later, she's sold millions of copies and has never looked back. Her latest is a genre-fusing novel titled, It's Not What You Think. Clare was recently a guest speaker at the yearly MOTIVE crime and mystery festival in Toronto, and dropped by to talk about the books that have shaped her life and career.Books discussed on this week's show include:And Then There Were None by Agatha ChristieLittle Face by Sophie HannahBefore You Go to Sleep by S. J. WatsonLife After Life by Kate AtkinsonIt's Not What You Think by Clare MackintoshCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

For years Jenny Jackson worked as an editor for some of the biggest authors in the publishing game. Eventually, she took what she had learned as an editor and applied it to writing a book of her own.The result was a bestselling novel, and a new career as an author. Her new novel, The Shampoo Effect, took inspiration from a sexy, sixties novel about small-town adultery. It's the story of a young woman who finds her way deep into a close circle of friends, and then writes all about them in a revealing New Yorker story. Plus, we revisit the late writer Gail Bowen's Proust Questionnaire from 2015.Books discussed on this week's show include:Couples by John UpdikeThe Shampoo Method by Jenny JacksonCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Wondering how you're going to keep your kids reading now that school's out? Our children's book panel is here to help. We've asked writer, broadcaster and Mom, Bee Quammie, and CBC Books producer and mother of two, Lucy Mann to recommend their recent favourite all Canadian kids books. Plus, author of Life of Pi, Yann Martel shares what matters most to him while answering The Next Chapter's version of the Proust Questionnaire. Books discussed on this week's show include:Ruthie by Esmé ShapiroThe Healer and the Phoenix by Linda Trinh, illustrated by Quynh Anh NguyenInbetweens by Faith Erin HicksEllis on Guard by Sal Sawler, Nandita Ratan (Illustrator)Shy Cat and the Stuff-the-Bus Challenge by Dian Day (Author), Amanda White (Illustrator)The Cursed Queen's Daughter by Elly BlakeSon of Nobody by Yann MartelCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Here at The Next Chapter, we read Canadian all year long. But to help celebrate Canada Day, we're asking what makes a book a Canadian classic. To help answer this question, we've called upon CBC Books producer Bridget Raymundo and lifelong bookseller Nathan Maharaj. They discuss their favourite Canadian novels of all-time, and what makes a book relevant for generations to come. They also present one title that they think has what it takes to become a future Canadian classic. Plus, musician Brettyn Rose talks about songwriting and recommends one of her favourite books.Books discussed on this week's show include:Autobiography of Red by Anne CarsonThe Stone Angel by Margaret LaurenceIn the Upper Country by Kai ThomasHeated Rivalry by Rachel ReidThe Great Alone by Kristin HannahCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

The Next Chapter's mystery panel is back with their summer round-up. Two mystery writers, Angela Misri and Sam Wiebe have hand selected their favourite titles to add some tension to your summer, strictly on the page of course. Plus, Joe Ollmann isn't your average cartoonist. He discusses the intersection between socialism and graphic novels, and how he uses his platform to highlight the working class in his stories. He'll discuss his latest book, and share his go-to recommendations from the shelves of Epic Books in Hamilton.Books discussed on this week's show include:Strangers in the Villa by Robyn HardingA Gift Before Dying by Malcolm KemptGood Guys by Sharon BalaThe Keeper by Tana FrenchGreenwood by Michael ChristieIt's a Good Life, if you Don't Weaken by SethThe Woodchipper by Joe OllmannCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Carley Fortune is one of the biggest names in contemporary romance. This year, two of her hit novels are being adapted into TV series, and has shown no signs of slowing down. Her most recent book, Our Perfect Storm, is a romance set on the breathtaking shores of Tofino. Before becoming an author, she worked as a journalist, and before that she was an avid reader with a love for storytelling. She'll talk about some of the most influential books in her life, and what drove her to start telling her own stories. Plus, Youth Recipient of a 2026 Indspire award, musician Tia Wood recommends an Indigenous book that she considers a modern classic.Books discussed on this week's show include:Flowers in the Attic by VC AndrewsTomorrow, When the War Began by John MarsdenAnne of Green Gables by LM MontgomerySeven Days in June by Tia Williams Our Perfect Storm by Carley FortuneFive Little Indians by Michelle GoodCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

The Toronto Tempo recently became Canada's first WNBA team. If you, like many others, are considering checking out the action, our in-house women's basketball expert Talia Kliot recommends the one book everyone should read to learn more about the rich history of women's basketball. Plus, author Kerry Clare talks about her most recent novel Definitely Thriving, and explains the book's deep connection to Bridget Jones Diary.Books discussed on this week's show include:Excellent Women by Barbara PymEarly Morning Riser by Katherine HeinyDefinitely Thriving by Kerry ClareCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Ann Patchett has written many celebrated books: Bel Canto, The Dutch House, State of Wonder. Her new book, Whistler, is another in her line-up of lovely stories that honour memory and the moments that make a life. Besides her work as a writer, Ann owns a bookstore called Parnassus in Nashville, and she's a tireless advocate for independent booksellers. In the midst of a busy book tour for Whistler, she stops by to chat and recommend some titles from the Parnassus shelves. Plus, author Monique Gray Smith talks about true happiness while answering The Next Chapter's version of the Proust Questionnaire.Books discussed on this week's show include:Whistler by Ann PatchettKin by Tayari JonesJohn of John by Douglas StuartThe Left and the Lucky by Willy VlautinMusic Against the Night by Yiyun LeeSharing the Light: Stories and Reflections by Monique Gray SmithCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

As Canada prepares for its upcoming World Cup games, writer, musician and sports enthusiast Dave Bidini joins the show to help get you in the soccer spirit. He'll recommend two classic football books that capture why we call it the beautiful game. Plus, author Genevieve Graham talks about getting lost in the work while answering The Next Chapter's version of the Proust Questionnaire. Books discussed on this week's show include:Soccer in Sun and Shadow by Eduardo GaleanoDynamo: Triumph and Tragedy in Nazi-Occupied Kiev by Andy DouganThe Chambermaid's Key by Genevieve GrahamCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Readers are still in love with romance. The genre has become the engine behind the publishing industry, and Heated Rivalry shifted things into a new gear. If you, like millions of other readers, are wondering what romance to dive into next, The Next Chapter has you covered. Daphne Santos-Vieira and Alicia Cox-Thompson recommend their new favorite titles. Plus, musician Kaeley Jade recommends an iconic Indigenous story, and talks about how reading sparks her songwriting. Books discussed on this week's show include:Evening the Score by Lexi Lafleur BrownThe Book Tour by Emily OhanjaniansBedside Manner by C.G. MacingtonPhoebe Berman's Gonna Lose it Brooke AverickBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

If there ever was a bookstore that lived up to its name, it's Joie de Livres in Montréal. From its shelves of romance and fantasy, to its cocktails, coffee and nacho selection, it's a store dedicated to the joy of reading and of life. Program director Mathieu Lauzon-Dicso talks about what to expect when you walk through its doors. Plus, writer and translator Jinwoo Park recommends two book picks for Asian Heritage Month.Books discussed on this week's show include:Even Though I Knew the End by C.L. PolkRestaurant Kid by Rachel PhanCelestina's House by Clarissa Trinidad GonzalezCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Before he ever joined the cast of Dragons' Den, David Chilton wrote the incredibly successful financial book The Wealthy Barber. His advice shaped the way millions of people used and invested their money. 37 years later, he's back with an updated version of his classic book, with the future of the younger generation in mind. He joins the show to discuss how books came into his life, and how they inspired him to write his own. Plus, Ewan Currie from The Sheepdogs talks about a favourite recent read.Books discussed on this week's show include:The Only Investment Guide You'll Ever Need by Andrew TobiasScientific Advertising by Claude HopkinsOgilvy on Advertising by David OgilvyLooneyspoons by Janet and Greta PodleskiWhite River Crossing by Ian McGuireCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Nadine Bhabha wears many hats. Poet, comedy writer, actor and avid reader. She's been in hit shows like Heated Rivalry and Letterkenny, worked as writer on This Hour Has 22 Minutes and was recently selected as a juror for the CBC Poetry Prize. Nadine joins the show to talk about her life as a working actor, and where books fit into it. Plus, remembering the late Canadian author Alan Bradley who answered The Next Chapter's Proust Questionnaire in 2024.Books discussed on this week's show include:Other People's Comfort Keeps Me Up At Night by Morgan ParkerFamesick by Lena DunhamGood Material by Dolly AldertonNumb Were the Beadsman's Fingers - A Flavia de Luce Novel by Alan BradleyCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Andrew Phung is a comedian, writer and an actor. He's probably best known for the five years he played Kimchee on Kim's Convenience, and from there he starred in Run the Burbs, which he co-created. Over his career he's won five Canadian Screen Awards, and this year he will host the award show. He'll discuss his journey through comedy, fatherhood and books, specifically books that have helped shape his life and career.Books discussed on this week's show include:Star Trek: The Next Generation - Descent by Diane CareyThe Outsiders by S.E. HintonSunshine Nails by Mai NguyenMigrant Rain Falls in Reverse by Vinh NguyenCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Wayne Johnston is a master storyteller. He's been writing books for forty years, with the history, politics and people of Newfoundland figuring large in his works. His new novel is The Novice of Holloway Hall. He joins the show to talk about the books that have shaped him and his career. Plus, acclaimed English author Jeanette Winterson answers the Proust Questionnaire. Books discussed on this week's show include:Don Quixote by Miguel de CervantesSalome by Oscar WildeCollected Poems of Emily DickinsonAs You Like It by William ShakespeareOne Aladdin Two Lamps by Jeanette WintersonCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Gen Z has found a new favourite way to improve their outfit while simultaneously looking more intellectual. Add a book. Books have become one of the hottest trends in the fashion world, serving as accessories, objects and status signifiers. Fashion houses have signed on in a big way, creating everything from book bags to readable charms. CBC Books' very own “lit girl” and eagle eyed trend spotter Bridget Raymundo joins the show to talk about what happens when fashion cozies up to the book world. Plus, Toronto musician Meagan De Lima recommends a book to reignite your childlike creativity. Books discussed on this week's show include:The Creative Act by Rick RubinCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Iona Whishaw dreamed of being a writer since she was a child. It may have taken longer than she had expected, but by her mid sixties she had fulfilled that childhood dream. Inspired by the true stories of her family's connection to secret intelligence services such as MI6, she's written a fan favourite mystery series set in B.C. just after the Second World War. Plus, book content creator Ainara Alleyne drops by to talk about her journey as a youth reading advocate, and talk about the upcoming Forest of Reading Festival. Books discussed on this week's show include:A False and Fatal Claim: A Lane Winslow Mystery by Iona WhishawThe Chambermaid's Key by Genevieve GrahamI, Medusa by Ayana GrayCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Elsie Silver has become one of the most popular romance writers in the world. She's best known for her small town, slow burn romance novels, which exploded onto bestseller lists and sent production companies scrambling to be the first to adapt her work. Elsie's new book, Fever Dream, is the first in a new series set in and around the fictional town of Emerald Lake, B.C. This week she talks about what sparked the flame of her rapidly rising career, and which books and series influenced her along the way.Books discussed on this week's show include:The Outsiders by S.E. HintonDancer by Shelley PetersonThe Hunger Games series by Suzanne CollinsThe Fever series by Karen Marie Moning Fever Dream by Elsie SilverCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

When Jennifer Chevalier isn't digging up the latest political scoop on The House on CBC Radio, she's unearthing untold stories of women in history. She has always been particularly interested in the women labeled as witches throughout history. In her debut novel, she writes about the women who came to New France from Normandy to be brides, with a hint of witchcraft. Plus, CBC Books associate producer Ailey Yamamoto talks about the intersection between video games and high art.Books discussed on this week's show include:The Winter Witch by Jennifer ChevalierOf Floating Isles: On Growing Pains and Video Games by Kawika GuillermoCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Caroline Bicks grew up reading and loving Stephen King's work. She never would have imagined that one day she'd be working alongside the King of Horror himself. After teaching and writing about Shakespeare for many years, she changed direction and took the inaugural Stephen E. King Chair in Literature at the University of Maine. Eventually she had the opportunity to explore the archives and original manuscripts of some of King's most iconic work. She compiled her findings into her new book Monsters in the Archives: My Year of Fear with Stephen King.Books discussed on this week's show include:Monsters in the Archives: My Year of Fear with Stephen King by Caroline BicksCarrie by Stephen King Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

The last Saturday of April is Independent Bookstore Day. This week Carmela Vedar, the owner of The Book Wardrobe, joins the show to talk about her store in Streetsville, Mississauga and how it came to be. Plus, scholar David Williams discusses the everlasting impact of the great Irish poet, Seamus Heaney.Books discussed on this week's show include:East of Eden by John SteinbeckWintering Out by Seamus HeaneyCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Kim Echlin doesn't shy away from the hard stuff. She's an author, translator and teacher who has written about political unrest and violence, and, in her reading life, is inspired by the writers who do the same. Her favourite writers bear witness to the world's darkness and make meaning from these difficult stories. Kim's latest book of essays pays tribute to her favourites, and it's called Tell Others: Storytelling for a World in Turmoil. Plus, Toronto musician Lia Pappas-Kemps talks about her undying love for Zadie Smith.Books discussed on this week's show include:Tell Others: Storytelling for a World in Turmoil by Kim EchlinIntimations by Zadie Smith Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Graham Wright is a musician who spent almost twenty years playing keyboards in the band Tokyo Police Club, and has also done solo projects. Even before he developed his love for music, he had a passion for books. He joins the show this week to recommend three of his recent reads, all of which riff on the idea of home or at least finding your place in a hard to pin down world. Plus, CBC Books producer Daphné Santos-Vieira on the CBC Poetry Prize, and recommends a poetry collection that hit home.Books discussed on this week's show include:Pay as You Go by David Eskor JohnsonHow Much of These Hills is Gold by C. Pam ZhangJulius, Julius by Aurora Steward de PenaYield by Jaime ForsytheCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Vampires not only don't die, they never seem to go away. From ancient myths to modern stories, books and movies, the vampire sucks our attention. On a recent visit to New Orleans, Antonio Michael Downing saw the home of Anne Rice and immersed himself in her life and work. He dives into the classic with vampire novel aficionado Bridget Raymundo, who also recommends a more recent vampire read she loved. Plus, Juno-nominee Sacha recommends a book that stokes her creativity.Books discussed on this week's show include:Pay as You Go by David Eskor JohnsonHow Much of These Hills is Gold by C. Pam ZhangJulius, Julius by Aurora Steward de PenaYield by Jaime ForsytheCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Lately it's started to feel like tech, big, small and in between has taken more from us than it's given. For sane, humane takes on tech we call on Vass Bednar. She's a public policy expert and the director of The Canadian Shield Institute. She joins the show to talk about two books that focus on life, tech and the future. Plus, CBC Books producer Lisa Mathews recommends The Correspondent by Virginia Evans.Books discussed on this week's show include:Girlfriend on Mars by Deborah WillisAgency by William GibsonThe Correspondent by Virginia EvansCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Few authors have impacted young readers' lives as much as Judy Blume. Her beloved books are frank about puberty, sex and the messiness of growing up. Alicia Cox Thomson and Brian Francis, two lifelong Judy Blume fans join the show to talk about their recent reading of Judy Blume: A Life by Mark Oppenheimer, and the impact Judy Blume has had on their reading lives. Plus, author Janie Chang answers The Next Chapter's Proust questionnaire. Books discussed on this week's show include:Judy Blume: A Life by Mark OppenheimerThe Fourth Princess by Janie Chang Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Project Hail Mary is BookToker and Canada Reads panellist Morgann Book's favourite novel of all time. So she had high expectations going into the film adaptation. Three viewings later, she's convinced they got it right. Plus, Antonio Michael sits down with the host of Canada Reads, Ali Hassan for a warm up chat before the debates, and learns the hardest part of hosting the competition.Books discussed on this week's show include:Project Hail Mary by Andy WeirIt's Different This Time by Joss RichardA Minor Chorus by Billy-Ray BelcourtFoe by Iain ReidThe Cure for Drowning by Loghan PaylorSearching for Terry Punchout by Tyler HellardCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Amanda Brugel is an award-winning actor and former Canada Reads champion. In a career full of iconic characters Amanda is best known for playing Rita in The Handmaid's Tale. She was first drawn to the character at the age of 15, before portraying her on the screen 20 years later. She shares her life in books. Plus, author Ray Robertson answers The Next Chapter's version of the Proust Questionnaire.Books discussed on this week's show include:21 Lessons For the 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel WilkersonA New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart TolleRomeo and Juliet by William ShakespeareThe Right to Be Wrong by Ray RobertsonCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

The actor Malia Baker was the youngest person ever to compete on Canada Reads. Back then Malia was starring in The Babysitter's Club on Netflix, and from there joined the Disney universe. She joins the show for a reading check-in. Plus, CBC Books' Talia Kliot talks about her venture into stand-up comedy and recommends two books about comedians. Books discussed on this week's show include:The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch AlbomRemembered Rapture by Bell HooksAll About Love by Bell HooksGood Material by Dolly AldertonNobody Asked for This by Georgia ToewsCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Chart-topping musician Tegan Quin has joined the table for Canada Reads 2026. She is the second member from the duo Tegan and Sara to participate in Canada Reads, and will defend Loghan Paylor's novel The Cure for Drowning. The team will discuss the upcoming debates and make their case for why this historical queer love story is the one book all of Canada should read.Books discussed on this week's show include:The Cure for Drowning by Loghan PaylorCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Every month across the country in federal prisons, inmates get together for bookclubs. It may not look like the typical club, but the connection, community and stimulation are all there. It's a program that's been running for almost 20 years. Tom Best, the Executive Director of Bookclubs for Inmates, drops by to talk about the program and Antonio Michael's experience as a guest author. Plus, Bridget Raymundo recommends a staff pick and explains its mysterious tie to Heated Rivalry.

The next Canada Reads panellist and author pairing has joined the table. Actor and TV host Josh Dela Cruz will defend Iain Reid's novel, Foe. It's a psychological thriller set against a science fiction backdrop, and examines the nature of a domestic relationship in a climate-change-ravaged country. The eerie familiarity stuck with Dela Cruz well after he finished reading, and will make his case for why it's must-read material for Canadians during the debates in April. Plus, Juno-nominated musician Siibii shares the book they think should be required in classrooms.Books discussed on this week's show include:Foe by Iain ReidMind's Eye: Stories from Whapmagoostui edited by Emily Masty & Susan Marshall Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Gill Deacon is a writer, musician and a familiar voice on CBC. A few years ago she developed a debilitating illness that defied diagnosis for many months. In those long months of not knowing, she was forced to adjust to her relationship with uncertainty. Her new book is called A Love Affair with the Unknown: Leaning into the Uncertainty of Modern Life. She'll talk about her journey, and recommend two similar titles. Plus, Karma Brown answers The Next Chapter's version of the Proust Questionnaire.Books discussed on this week's show include:A Love Affair with the Unknown: Leaning into the Uncertainty of Modern LifeWintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine MayHope in the Dark: Untold Histories, Wild Possibilities by Rebecca SolnitMother is Watching by Karma BrownCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks

Filmmaker and actor Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers and author Billy-Ray Belcourt are bringing rural Alberta authenticity to Canada Reads. Tailfeathers will be defending Belcourt's novel A Minor Chorus. It follows a queer Indigenous doctoral student who steps away from his dissertation to write a novel, feeling caught between his childhood on the reservation, and the newest chapter of his life. They'll get into the upcoming debates, and why Tailfeathers believes this is the story Canada needs now more than ever.Books discussed on this week's show include:A Minor Chorus by Billy-Ray BelcourtThe Bluest Eye by Toni MorrisonI am Woman by Lee Maracle Kiss of the Fur Queen by Tomson HighwayIn Search of April Raintree by Beatrice MosionierCheck us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks