Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Next Chapter with Antonio Michael Downing
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 years since publishing Indigenous Writes, what’s changed? | 28 sept. 2026 | 00:28:14 | |
Chelsea Vowel is a lawyer, teacher and writer. 10 years ago, she published her influential book Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Metis and Inuit issues in Canada. Chelsea joins the show to talk about the newly released 10th anniversary edition, which continues the groundbreaking conversation. Plus, novelist and playwright Anosh Irani talks about the process of adapting Rohinton Mistry’s novel A Fine Balance for the stage at Crow's Theatre in Toronto. Books discussed on this week's show include: Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Metis and Inuit issues in Canada by Chelsea Vowel A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry Liked this conversation? Keep listening: Why books serve a vital role in Truth and Reconciliation What does it mean to be a Bad Indian? | |||
| Here’s what’s on our fall TBR list | 26 sept. 2026 | 00:25:50 | |
For our team of producers at CBC Books, fall reading starts in spring when publisher catalogues and look-aheads arrive at the office. Ailey Yamamoto, Ashly July and Lisa Mathews have been reading fall books for months, and join the show to recommend the title they think should make the top of your reading list. Plus, Polaris Prize nominated musician Charlotte Cornfield talks about her musical journey and what she’s been reading. Books discussed on this week's show include: We Are Underlings by Doretta Lau Opioids and Organs by Arizona O'Neill The Wild Beneath by Kelly Anderson These Songs I Know by Heart by Erin Brubacher Liked this conversation? Keep listening: Fall book recs? Take it from us What might surprise you about Margaret Atwood’s new memoir Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| What the stars of North of North are reading | 21 sept. 2026 | 00:28:14 | |
After cleaning up at the Canadian Screen Awards in May, North of North returns for season two with nine awards under its belt including Best Comedy Series. In this episode, co-stars Anna Lambe and Maika Harper join the show to talk about the series, the stories it tells and the role books and reading play in their busy lives. Plus, author Ashley Audrain opens up about her novel The Push being named by the New York Times as one of the top 50 thriller novels of the 21st century. Books discussed on this week's show include: A Brief History of Seven Killings by Marlon James The First Peoples by Maika Harper Thou Shalt Do No Murder by Kenn Harper The Jakarta Method by Vincent Bevins A Brief History of Seven Killings by Marlon James Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn The Death of Us by Abigail Dean Liked this conversation? Keep listening: How Amanda Brugel manifested her role in The Handmaid’s Tale The books that made Andrew Phung fall in love with storytelling Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| Why we keep coming back to The Odyssey, 3000 years later | 19 sept. 2026 | 00:23:47 | |
The Odyssey, both the movie and Homer’s epic poem, was at the top of the pop culture zeitgeist this summer. The sudden resurgence leads to the question: What is it about the Greeks, their myths and their philosophies that sticks with us? To dive into this topic, we sit down with writer, actor and classic enthusiast Kudakwashe Rutendo to discuss the staying power of these stories, and share her less than warm review of The Odyssey. Plus, Montreal-based musician Edwin Raphael talks about his music and why he wants to read more this year. Books discussed on this week's show include: The Odyssey by Homer The Odyssey by Emily Wilson Son of Nobody by Yann Martel The Hungry Tide by Amitav Ghosh Liked this conversation? Keep listening: Are book bans actually effective in a digital age? The youngest Canada Reads contestant is now a Disney star: Here’s what she’s reading now | |||
| Kia Nurse shares what the Toronto Tempo is reading | 14 sept. 2026 | 00:28:12 | |
You may know Kia Nurse from the WNBA, Team Canada or her basketball coverage on TSN. She also scored the first points recorded in Toronto Tempo history. Today she joins the show to talk about the team’s book club, and what they’ve been reading as of late. And later, CBC Books producer Bridget Raymundo talks about the hit graphic novel series Hearstopper, and why it holds such a special place in her heart. Books discussed on this week's show include: It Should Have Been You by Andrea Mara Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides Heartstopper by Alice Oseman Liked this conversation? Keep listening: Inside the Toronto Sceptres’ team book club Get to know CBC’s Winter Olympics host Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| What happens when 6 Canadian actors start a book club | 12 sept. 2026 | 00:27:34 | |
Celebrity book clubs have shown their staying power. From Reese Witherspoon to Dua Lipa, everyone’s curious about what actors and artists are reading. When Heated Rivalry’s Nadine Bhabha shared that she’s in a book club with five of her actor friends the last time she was on the show, we knew we had to see what this club was all about. Nadine and her colleagues Clark Backo and Jess Salgueiro join the show to peel back the curtain on this star-studded book club, share what they’ve been reading and how their love of books brought them all together. Books discussed on this week's show include: I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman The Witch by Marie Ndiaye Half His Age by Jeannette McCurdy Liked this conversation? Keep listening: Heated Rivalry’s Nadine Bhabha’s It Girl book club How Amanda Brugel manifested her role in The Handmaid’s Tale Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| These books introduced Will Ferguson to the world... and changed his life | 05 sept. 2026 | 00:26:46 | |
Will Ferguson began his career as a travel writer. Since then he's written more than a dozen books and won some of the biggest literary prizes a Canadian writer can win. Along the way, he never gave up travel writing, and still uses it to inform his fiction. His books stretch across genres, allowing his work to follow wherever his interests take him, always with an underpinning thread of humour. Growing up in a small town in Northern Alberta, books were his first ticket to seeing the outside world. He'll break down which books have influenced his life and career the most in a segment of My Life in Books. Books discussed on this week's show include: Meanwhile, Back in Nokomis by Will Ferguson Red Sky at Morning by Richard Bradford The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz by Mordecai Richler The Quiet American by Graham Greene Satellite Love by Genki Ferguson Liked this conversation? Keep listening: Terry Fallis proves you have to live before you can write The books that made Andrew Phung fall in love with storytelling Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| What it’s like entering the spotlight after a career of ghostwriting | 31 août 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 MacLeod The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai Moonlight Murder by Uzma Jalaluddin Liked this conversation? Keep listening: The author behind Lucky reveals how she helped cast Anya Taylor-Joy The book that inspired Carley Fortune's writing career Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| How far must we go to find our way home? | 29 août 2026 | 00:26:45 | |
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 Paylor A Minor Chorus by Billy-Ray Belcourt Liked this conversation? Keep listening: How iconic musician Tegan Quin plans to tackle Canada Reads Why Elle-Maija Tailfeathers says A Minor Chorus is the story Canada needs to hear right now | |||
| What made The Tragically Hip Canada’s band? | 22 août 2026 | 00:22:29 | |
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 Barclay Rough Description by Don Pyle Liked this conversation? Keep listening: Canadian fiddle legend Natalie MacMaster shares her life in books What is the greatest Canadian novel of all time? Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| How to avoid getting locked in an echo chamber | 15 août 2026 | 00:24:00 | |
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 Perez How Great Things Happen by George Newman Liked 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 | |||
| The author behind Lucky reveals how she helped cast Anya Taylor-Joy | 08 août 2026 | 00:25:15 | |
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 Stapley Definitely Thriving by Kerry Clare Strangers in the Villa by Robyn Harding The Dawn of Everything by David Graeber and David Wengrow Liked this conversation? Keep listening: The book that inspired Carley Fortune's writing career Why does Nita Prose call herself an accidental writer? Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| Why storytellers come alive when food is on the table | 01 août 2026 | 00:53:29 | |
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 Phan How to Share an Egg by Bonny Reichert Poutine by Justin Giovannetti Lamothe Liked this conversation? Keep listening: The books that fire up chef Michael Smith Is food the closest thing to teleportation? | |||
| What is the hardest part of translating a beloved novel? | 25 juil. 2026 | 00:26:44 | |
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 Chacour | |||
| Why Ernest Hemingway had a problem with Toronto | 18 juil. 2026 | 00:26:45 | |
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: A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway The Stand-In by Lily Chu The Marionette by Terry Fallis | |||
| How an accidental police officer stumbled into a career as a mystery author | 11 juil. 2026 | 00:27:03 | |
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 Christie Little Face by Sophie Hannah Before You Go to Sleep by S. J. Watson Life After Life by Kate Atkinson It’s Not What You Think by Clare Mackintosh | |||
| Spilling secrets and small-town adultery in The Shampoo Effect | 04 juil. 2026 | 00:26:50 | |
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 Updike The Shampoo Method by Jenny Jackson Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| Kid approved books they will actually want to read this Summer | 29 juin 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Shapiro The Healer and the Phoenix by Linda Trinh, illustrated by Quynh Anh Nguyen Inbetweens by Faith Erin Hicks Ellis 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 Blake Son of Nobody by Yann Martel | |||
| What is the greatest Canadian novel of all time? | 27 juin 2026 | 00:25:26 | |
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 Carson The Stone Angel by Margaret Laurence In the Upper Country by Kai Thomas Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| Mystery solved: your summer reading list | 22 juin 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Harding A Gift Before Dying by Malcolm Kempt Good Guys by Sharon Bala The Keeper by Tana French Greenwood by Michael Christie It’s a Good Life, if you Don’t Weaken by Seth The Woodchipper by Joe Ollmann | |||
| The book that inspired Carley Fortune's writing career | 20 juin 2026 | 00:24:26 | |
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 Andrews Tomorrow, When the War Began by John Marsden Anne of Green Gables by LM Montgomery Seven Days in June by Tia Williams Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune Five Little Indians by Michelle Good | |||
| The hidden connection between basketball and book nerds | 15 juin 2026 | 00:26:56 | |
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 Pym Early Morning Riser by Katherine Heiny Definitely Thriving by Kerry Clare Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| Why Ann Patchett thinks the secret to success might be lowering people's expectations | 13 juin 2026 | 00:26:56 | |
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 Patchett Kin by Tayari Jones John of John by Douglas Stuart The Left and the Lucky by Willy Vlautin Music Against the Night by Yiyun Lee Sharing the Light: Stories and Reflections by Monique Gray Smith Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| Get ready for the World Cup with these essential soccer books | 08 juin 2026 | 00:27:43 | |
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 Galeano Dynamo: Triumph and Tragedy in Nazi-Occupied Kiev by Andy Dougan The Chambermaid's Key by Genevieve Graham | |||
| After Heated Rivalry, what’s next for romance readers? | 06 juin 2026 | 00:25:42 | |
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 Brown The Book Tour by Emily Ohanjanians Bedside Manner by C.G. Macington Phoebe Berman’s Gonna Lose it Brooke Averick Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer | |||
| The Montréal bookstore doing it like no other: Meet Joie de Livres | 01 juin 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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. Polk Restaurant Kid by Rachel Phan Celestina’s House by Clarissa Trinidad Gonzalez | |||
| The books that made David Chilton The Wealthy Barber | 30 mai 2026 | 00:24:35 | |
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 Tobias Scientific Advertising by Claude Hopkins Ogilvy on Advertising by David Ogilvy Looneyspoons by Janet and Greta Podleski White River Crossing by Ian McGuire | |||
| Heated Rivalry’s Nadine Bhabha’s It Girl book club | 25 mai 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Parker Famesick by Lena Dunham Good Material by Dolly Alderton Numb Were the Beadsman's Fingers - A Flavia de Luce Novel by Alan Bradley | |||
| The books that made Andrew Phung fall in love with storytelling | 23 mai 2026 | 00:26:43 | |
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 Carey The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton Sunshine Nails by Mai Nguyen Migrant Rain Falls in Reverse by Vinh Nguyen | |||
| How being a 'sickly child' made Wayne Johnston a better writer | 18 mai 2026 | 00:27:41 | |
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 Cervantes Salome by Oscar Wilde Collected Poems of Emily Dickinson As You Like It by William Shakespeare One Aladdin Two Lamps by Jeanette Winterson | |||
| How reading became the hottest fashion trend of 2026 | 16 mai 2026 | 00:25:06 | |
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 Rubin | |||
| Her uncles for worked for MI6, now she writes spy novels | 11 mai 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Whishaw The Chambermaid’s Key by Genevieve Graham I, Medusa by Ayana Gray | |||
| How Elsie Silver became one of the biggest names in romance | 09 mai 2026 | 00:26:36 | |
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. Hinton Dancer by Shelley Peterson The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins The Fever series by Karen Marie Moning Fever Dream by Elsie Silver | |||
| Exploring the fear that turned women into “witches” | 04 mai 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Chevalier Of Floating Isles: On Growing Pains and Video Games by Kawika Guillermo | |||
| Reflecting on a year of fear with Stephen King | 02 mai 2026 | 00:26:53 | |
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 Bicks Carrie by Stephen King
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| How this independent bookstore owner stocks their shelves | 27 avr. 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Steinbeck Wintering Out by Seamus Heaney | |||
| Can reading be the first step to making real change? | 25 avr. 2026 | 00:23:38 | |
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 Echlin Intimations by Zadie Smith
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| Dystopian apartment hunting and searching for a place to call home | 20 avr. 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Johnson How Much of These Hills is Gold by C. Pam Zhang Julius, Julius by Aurora Steward de Pena Yield by Jaime Forsythe | |||
| Travelling to the birthplace of Interview with the Vampire | 18 avr. 2026 | 00:24:57 | |
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 Johnson How Much of These Hills is Gold by C. Pam Zhang Julius, Julius by Aurora Steward de Pena Yield by Jaime Forsythe | |||
| A reality show where contestants win a trip ... to Mars? | 13 avr. 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Willis Agency by William Gibson The Correspondent by Virginia Evans | |||
| What made Judy Blume’s books so popular? Reflecting on her illustrious career and new biography | 11 avr. 2026 | 00:27:08 | |
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 Oppenheimer The Fourth Princess by Janie Chang
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| Does the Project Hail Mary adaptation do the novel justice? | 06 avr. 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Weir It’s Different This Time by Joss Richard A Minor Chorus by Billy-Ray Belcourt Foe by Iain Reid The Cure for Drowning by Loghan Paylor Searching for Terry Punchout by Tyler Hellard | |||
| How Amanda Brugel manifested her role in The Handmaid’s Tale | 04 avr. 2026 | 00:27:08 | |
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 Wilkerson A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose by Eckhart Tolle Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare The Right to Be Wrong by Ray Robertson | |||
| The youngest Canada Reads contestant is now a Disney star: Here’s what she’s reading now | 30 mars 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Albom Remembered Rapture by Bell Hooks All About Love by Bell Hooks Good Material by Dolly Alderton Nobody Asked for This by Georgia Toews Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| How iconic musician Tegan Quin plans to tackle Canada Reads | 28 mars 2026 | 00:26:06 | |
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 Paylor | |||
| A look inside Canada’s prison book clubs | 23 mars 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 quiet terror of Foe: why Actor Josh Dela Cruz is bringing it to Canada Reads | 21 mars 2026 | 00:24:47 | |
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 Reid Mind's Eye: Stories from Whapmagoostui edited by Emily Masty & Susan Marshall
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| This writer's mystery illness defied diagnosis for months - here's what she learned from the uncertainty | 16 mars 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
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 Life Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May Hope in the Dark: Untold Histories, Wild Possibilities by Rebecca Solnit Mother is Watching by Karma Brown Check us out on Instagram @cbcbooks and TikTok @cbcbooks | |||
| Why Elle-Maija Tailfeathers says A Minor Chorus is the story Canada needs to hear right now | 14 mars 2026 | 00:26:42 | |
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 Belcourt The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison I am Woman by Lee Maracle Kiss of the Fur Queen by Tomson Highway In Search of April Raintree by Beatrice Mosionier | |||
| Inside the Toronto Sceptres’ team book club | 09 mars 2026 | 00:25:56 | |
Toronto Sceptres players Claire Dalton and Raygan Kirk share a love of reading, so they decided to start a team book club. They join the show to discuss how the club works, balancing meetings with a busy PWHL schedule and what they're currently reading. Plus, writer and critic Jason Guriel on what makes the perfect book blurb and Canadian legend Fefe Dobson shares which book has been inspiring her lately. Books discussed on this week's show include: The Secret Lives of Murderer's Wives by Elizabeth Arnott God of the Woods by Liz Moore Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens A Complicated Kindness by Miriam Toews Gone Before Goodbye by Harlan Coben and Reese Witherspoon Linda McCartney: Life in Photographs by Annie Leibovitz and Paul McCartney, Linda McCartney | |||