The 9 Best Canadian Novels to Curl Up With (Sorry Not Sorry for the Feelings)

So, what are the best Canadian novels, eh? You might think Canadian literature is all snowstorms and emotional repression, but oh boy, there's a lot more going on north of the 49th parallel. From moody coming-of-age tales to dystopian fever dreams and Indigenous storytelling that’ll knock your socks off (preferably woolen ones), Canada punches well above its literary weight. Whether you’re a literary maple leaf enthusiast or just looking to dip a toe into the icy-cool waters of CanLit, we’ve got you covered. Here's our lovingly curated, cheekily presented list of the 9 best Canadian novels of all time.

1. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

Because Atwood basically invented feminist dystopia before it was cool. Set in the horrifyingly plausible Republic of Gilead, this novel explores reproductive rights, totalitarianism, and womanhood—all while keeping you on the edge of your seat. Plus, it's basically required reading in Canadian high schools. If you haven’t read it, we’re judging you (nicely, of course—this is Canada).

2. Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

Imagine being stuck on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger. Now imagine that’s only half the story. This Booker Prize–winning novel is part survival epic, part spiritual odyssey, and full-on literary delight. Bonus: it's set partly in India, but Martel calls Canada home—so it counts, okay?

3. The Stone Angel by Margaret Laurence

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

Meet Hagar Shipley: 90 years old, cranky as hell, and sharp as a tack. This prairie-set classic from the Manawaka cycle is like a Canadian King Lear with more frostbite and fewer kings. It’s introspective, poetic, and just Canadian enough to make you cry over wheat fields.

4. Fifth Business by Robertson Davies

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

Part of the Deptford Trilogy, this gem combines small-town gossip, Jungian archetypes, snowballs (yes, snowballs), and opera. Davies is basically Canada’s answer to Dickens—with better manners and more weird priests. A must-read for lovers of the mystical and strange.

5. Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

This one’s going to crush you—in the best way. Wagamese tells the story of Saul Indian Horse, a young Ojibwe boy navigating the trauma of residential schools and his love for hockey. It’s raw, powerful, and essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the real, lived history of Indigenous Canadians.

6. Monkey Beach by Eden Robinson

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

Set in a remote Haisla community on the coast of British Columbia, this novel blends grief, supernatural elements, and teen angst into a genre-defying, goosebump-raising story. Robinson’s writing is gritty, funny, and deeply rooted in Indigenous storytelling. Also: there are sea monsters. Just saying.

7. A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

Yes, it’s set in India, but Mistry is a proud Canadian, and this book is pure CanLit gold. Think Dickens meets post-colonial despair with a dose of human resilience that will make you want to call your grandma and cry. Mistry’s prose is rich, heartbreaking, and totally unskimmable.

8. Barney’s Version by Mordecai Richler

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

Because who doesn’t want to read a wildly unreliable memoir by a grumpy old Montrealer who may or may not have committed murder? Richler’s wit is drier than a Toronto martini and just as strong. It’s CanLit at its most charmingly cynical.

9. The Break by Katherena Vermette

Why it’s one of the best Canadian novels:

Set in Winnipeg’s North End, The Break follows a cast of Métis women connected by a violent event. Vermette’s writing is lyrical, tender, and brutally honest. She brings Indigenous voices to the forefront and creates a portrait of community, trauma, and strength that stays with you long after the final page.

FAQ: Best Canadian Novels Edition

Q1: What makes a novel "Canadian" anyway?

Great question! It’s usually written by a Canadian author (citizen or long-time resident), often set in Canada or reflecting Canadian themes: identity, multiculturalism, nature, history, hockey, poutine-related soul-searching… you get the idea.

Q2: Are Canadian novels only about snow and sadness?

Absolutely not. Sure, there’s a lot of snow and a fair amount of existential dread, but Canadian novels can be funny, magical, political, sexy, spooky, and everything in between. We're complex, okay?

Q3: Why should I care about Canadian literature?

Because it offers a fresh perspective. Canadian novels often tackle global themes through a uniquely humble, nuanced, and quietly powerful lens. Plus, reading CanLit makes you 63% more likely to say “sorry” during arguments. (Citation needed.)

Q4: Where can I buy the best Canadian novels?

Your local independent bookstore is always a good place to start (support local!). Otherwise, Chapters-Indigo, Amazon.ca, or even your local library if you’re feeling thrifty.

Whether you're looking for something to read during a blizzard or just want to impress your book club with some literary gems from the Great White North, these best Canadian novels have got your back. So grab your double-double, cozy up in a toque, and dive into some seriously underrated brilliance. And remember: it’s not just about reading Canadian books—it’s about feeling a little more polite, pensive, and poetic while you do it.