The great Canadian book debate is back for its 24th season! The opening round of Canada Reads 2025 kicks off March 17, 2025, at 10:05 AM ET, aiming to determine the book deemed the "one book to change the narrative" for Canadians. The excitement around this year’s debates promises to engage audiences with lively discussions and passionate defenses of literature.
This year’s five champions are set to represent their chosen titles and convince the public and fellow panellists why their book stands out. Olympic gold medallist Maggie Mac Neil is advocating for Watch Out for Her by Samantha M. Bailey. Alongside her, podcaster and wellness advocate Shayla Stonechild is championing A Two-Spirit Journey, co-authored by Ma-Nee Chacaby and Mary Louisa Plummer. Heartland actor Michelle Morgan will defend Etta and Otto and Russell and James by Emma Hooper, and thriller writer Linwood Barclay supports Jennie's Boy by Wayne Johnston. Finally, pastry chef Saïd M'Dahoma is backing Dandelion by Jamie Chai Yun Liew.
Throughout the debates, which take place from March 17 to March 20, the five champions will present the cases for their picks. This year's host for the informative debates is comedian Ali Hassan, who will guide viewers through the discussions.
Each panellist will have the opportunity to deliver the opening pitch for their respective book, laying out why it should resonate with every Canadian. After one hour of debate, the pressure will mount as the panellists vote to eliminate one book from the competition. The format not only encourages spirited discussions but also challenges the participants to articulate their thoughts passionately and convincingly.
Last year's Canada Reads competition saw Montreal writer Heather O'Neill championing the speculative novel The Future by Catherine Leroux, which took the top prize. Reflecting on O'Neill's success, this year's champions will no doubt look to follow her example and secure the coveted title for their chosen works.
Canadians are encouraged to tune in live at 10:05 AM ET on various platforms, including CBC TV, CBC Radio, CBC Listen, CBC Gem, and CBC Books. For those unable to join, recordings will also be available for later viewing. The Canada Reads series aims to stimulate literacy and book engagement across Canada by showcasing the voice of contemporary Canadian authors and their contributions to the literary world.
The debates promise to be captivating as champions defend their narratives with vigor, aiming to convince the audience and viewers at home of their book's importance. With so much at stake over these four days of literary discussions, readers can expect surprises, heartfelt storytelling, and possibly new literary favorites to carry forward.
Mark your calendars for this exciting event, as Canada immerses itself once again in the best of its literary offerings. Who will win the title of the book to change the narrative? Stay tuned to find out!