Canada Reads
Canada Reads is a lively and engaging literary event that captures the nation's attention. It brings together readers, authors, and celebrities to champion the best Canadian books.
Leverage Canada Reads' national cultural moment to drive book sales, library engagement, and community reading events around Canadian literature and timely social themes.
- Host a 'Book Battle Bash' in-store or online—let customers defend their favorite Canadian titles and vote for the winner
- Create a reading challenge campaign: 'Read All 5 Before the Winner Is Crowned' with tracking, prizes, and social sharing
- Partner with local bookstores and libraries to curate Canada Reads displays and author meet-and-greets during debate season
- Launch a 'Why This Book Matters' content series exploring the social themes in each contender book
Notable campaigns3
- CBC (Canada Reads organizer) (2025): Annual "battle of the books" format with 5 celebrity panelists championing different Canadian books in live broadcast debates; 2025 theme: 'books that change how we see, share and experience the world around us'; featured Olympic athlete Maggie Mac Neil, pastry chef Saïd M'Dahoma, wellness podcaster Shayla Stonechild, and others as advocates
- Indigo Books (2024-2025): Canada Reads merchandise and book bundling tie-ins; retailer partnership to promote contender books with co-branded displays, book club guides, and exclusive merchandise related to Canada Reads
- CBC Books (CBC subsidiary) (2024): Facebook group launched for readers to read Canada Reads books together; posters available for teachers, bookstores, and community groups; resources on Curio.ca for classroom integration
Social angles5
- "Which book would change how you see the world? Vote for the book that deserves Canada's attention. #CanadaReads #BattleOfTheBooks" (inspire action)
- "Our panelists are championing 5 incredible Canadian stories. Which would you fight for? Make your voice heard. #CanadaReads" (encourage participation)
- Behind-the-scenes clips of panelists reading their books + short, emotional quotes about why it matters: "This book changed me." #CanadaReads #SupportCanLit
- "Book lover? Love debate? Hate spoilers? Tune in March [dates] to watch 5 champions battle it out for THE book Canada needs to read. #CanadaReads" (broadcast schedule)
- User-generated: Readers share which contender book they're reading + why, tag a friend who "needs to read this," use #IChampion[BookTitle]
Ad copy starters5
“"5 Books. 5 Champions. One Winner. The great Canadian book debate starts March [X]. Which will you champion? #CanadaReads"”
“"This book changes how you see the world. Vote on CBC's Canada Reads."”
“"Bold stories. Bold voices. One unforgettable week of debate. Canada Reads 2025."”
“"Can't decide which Canadian book to read next? Let five panelists fight it out for you. #CanadaReads"”
“"From horror to memoir, romance to magic: 5 incredible Canadian books competing for your vote. #CanadaReads"”
Tips2
- DO: Lean into the drama and emotional stakes—this is a 'battle' format, so position it as entertainment AND literary merit. Build hype around the panelists' debate chemistry, not just the books. DON'T: Treat it as a dry academic exercise; frame it as must-watch TV/radio.
- DO: Launch your campaign well before March voting (8-12 weeks out) with teaser content about the contenders and panelists. DON'T: Wait until voting week to start promoting; momentum matters for social amplification.
Canada Reads began in 2002, created by CBC, Canada’s national broadcaster, to promote Canadian literature in an exciting and engaging way. The idea was simple yet powerful: to bring together five well-known Canadians to defend five different books.
Over several days, these defenders debate the merits of their chosen book, aiming to convince the nation that their book is the one every Canadian should read. At the end of the debates, one book is crowned the winner.
Since its beginnings, Canada Reads has grown into a cultural phenomenon. The program promotes reading and sparks national conversations about important social issues.
Each year, the selected books often touch on themes that resonate with current events or broader societal challenges, making the debates both timely and meaningful.
The event has introduced countless readers to new authors and stories they might not have otherwise discovered.
Host a Book Battle Bash
Why not throw a Canada Reads-inspired party? Gather a group of friends, each bringing a favorite Canadian book. Everyone gets a few minutes to defend their chosen title. Debate, laugh, and see who can sway the crowd. Add snacks, and you’ve got a fun night of literary duels!
Tune In and Talk It Out
Watch the Canada Reads debates together, whether online or on TV. Make it an event with popcorn and cozy blankets. After each round, discuss who made the best argument. Did the right book get eliminated, or was there a shocking twist?
Start a Book Club
Start a Canada Reads book club! Pick a book from past or present contenders. Meet weekly to chat about the story, the characters, and the themes. It’s a great way to connect with others and dive deep into Canadian literature.
Create a Reading Challenge
Challenge yourself or friends to read all five Canada Reads books before the winner is announced. Race to the finish line and compare notes. Who will finish first, and who will be the last page-turner?
Support Local Authors
Visit a local bookstore or library and pick up a book by a Canadian author. Better yet, choose one from a previous Canada Reads list. Supporting local writers is a great way to celebrate the event and discover new favorites.