Canada Reads is back! The debates will take place March 28-31, 2022

What is the one book all of Canada should read? It’s time for Canada Reads 2022.

In these days of isolation, we’re exploring stories that inspire readers to reflect on community and who we are in the world we live in. Over four days, five Canada Reads champions will bring their diverse perspectives to this year’s theme: One Book to Connect Us.

The champions and their chosen books are:

The debates will take place March 28-31, 2022.

They will be hosted by Ali Hassan and will be broadcast on CBC Radio OneCBC ListenCBC TVCBC Gem and on CBC Books

Hassan is an actor, comedian and host of CBC Radio’s Laugh Out Loud and a frequent guest host of As It Happens and Q. He can also be seen in his recurring TV roles on Designated SurvivorOdd Squad and Run the Burbs

Hassan has hosted Canada Reads since 2017.

“We know so many of our neighbours are feeling isolated this winter, so the moment feels right to explore stories of community,” said Hassan. “This year’s books will remind readers that we’re all connected and that we’re stronger when we come together. We can work through hard things and find the hope we need to keep going.”

The five panelists were on CBC Radio’s Q to reveal the books they will be championing in the debates.

LISTEN | The Canada Reads contenders speak with CBC Radio’s Q:

Q15:05 Canada Reads 2022 contenders introduce us to their chosen books

Vocabulary and Diction

Having a good vocabulary is having a wide range of words at your disposal.

Good diction is being able to take all the words you know, no matter how few, and use both them and their definitions correctly. 

How well do you communicate? Can you accurately convey your thoughts to others? on paper?

Imagine if …

Lesson by Sir Ken Robinson, directed by Avi Ofer

Sir Ken Robinson believed that humans have an inexhaustible power: our imaginations. We don’t just live in the world as we find it— we use our creativity to mold and reimagine our world with art, scientific theories, and technology. So, how would you choose to reimagine the world? What do we take for granted? What would you change? Remember, the only limit is your own imagination…

Using your voice is a political choice | Amanda Gorman

For anyone who believes poetry is stuffy or elitist, National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman has some characteristically well-chosen words. Poetry is for everyone, she says, and at its core it’s all about connection and collaboration. In this fierce talk and performance from TED-Ed Weekend, she explains why poetry is inherently political, pays homage to her honorary ancestors and stresses the value of speaking out despite your fears. “Poetry has never been the language of barriers,” Gorman says. “It’s always been the language of bridges.”