Canada Reads 2026 is scheduled from April 13 to 16, featuring five books with animated trailers for each title. This year’s theme focuses on finding a book that fosters connections and unity. The contenders for 2026 include Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers advocating for “A Minor Chorus” by Billy-Ray Belcourt, Steve (Dangle) Glynn supporting “Searching for Terry Punchout” by Tyler Hellard, Tegan Quin endorsing “The Cure for Drowning” by Loghan Paylor, Josh Dela Cruz championing “Foe” by Iain Reid, and Morgann Book backing “It’s Different This Time” by Joss Richard.
The diverse collection of titles for 2026 highlights the impact of storytelling in bringing people together and inspiring growth. To access the Canada Reads books in various formats, such as audio, braille, print, or text, platforms like CELA and NNELS offer a range of options. These books are available in print, e-book, and audiobook formats at local bookstores or libraries. Canada Reads features five Canadian celebrities selecting a book for all Canadians to read, engaging in debates over four days with one book being eliminated daily until a winner is chosen.
The animated trailers for each book provide insights into the creators behind the stories. For instance, “A Minor Chorus” by Billy-Ray Belcourt features an animated trailer by Onedove and narration by Jesse Nobess. Onedove, an Indigenous illustrator, collaborated with narrated Jesse Nobess, an actor from Pinaymootang First Nation, Winnipeg, for the trailer.
In another instance, “Foe” by Iain Reid’s trailer was narrated by David Ferry and animated by Miles Vitko. David Ferry, known for his directorial work and acting, collaborated with Miles Vitko, a Toronto-based designer with a background in architecture and the performing arts, for the trailer production.
Furthermore, “It’s Different This Time” by Joss Richard’s trailer was animated by Tenzin Tsering and narrated by Chelsea Clark. Tenzin Tsering, a Tibetan-Filipino illustrator, and Chelsea Clark, a Filipina-Canadian actor, contributed to bringing the story to life in the trailer.
Lastly, “Searching for Terry Punchout” by Tyler Hellard’s trailer was animated by Brian Evinou and narrated by Chai Valladares. Brian Evinou, known for his cartoon work, collaborated with Chai Valladares, a GTA-based actor transitioning to voiceover work, for the trailer production.
The trailers offer a glimpse into the captivating narratives of each book, enhancing the Canada Reads experience for audiences eager to delve into these literary works.