Canada Reads 2023

Get ready to throw down for your favourites, Canada Reads 2023 announced their shortlist. Prepare for the heartbreak, joy, betrayal, laughter, and surprise as this year's panelists share why the book they're championing is THE BOOK we should all read.

This popular nationwide Battle of the Books competition, seeking to find the one book every Canadian should read, is back for its 22nd edition. Five books were shortlisted, and between March 27-30, 2023, readers will be able to vote for their favourite. If you want to join in and read this year’s books, the Ottawa Public Library  has many copies available to borrow in multiple formats! You can find out more about the books, the authors, and how to participate on the CBC Canada Reads website.

Are you planning to read this year’s nominated titles and participate in choosing this year’s winner? Let us know if you already have a favourite, or which title you are most excited to read! 

Day 1, Monday March 27th: the debates begin and Silvia Moreno-Garcia's MEXICAN GOTHIC is voted out of the competition. You can read, listen, or watch a replay of Monday's debate here. 

Day 2, Tuesday March 28th: Another day of discussion on the remaining 4 contenders - the champions argue for the 1 book all of Canada should read. Michael Christie's GREENWOOD is voted out. Did you vote the same way? Catch up on the happenings and let us know below!

Day 3, Wednesday March 29th: The 3rd day of debates brought a tie!, ultimately seeing Dimitri Nasrallah's HOTLINE eliminated from the competition.

Day 4, Thursday March 30th: The 4th and final day of Canada Reads gave us an hour of debates, with the final vote going against Emily St. John Mandel's STATION ELEVEN, leaving Kate Beaton's DUCKS as the Canada Reads 2023 winner!