Best Canadian Essays 2026

“A superb collection of national thinkers, crackling with insight on the issues of the age.”—Chatelaine

Selected and introduced by Brian Bethune, Best Canadian Essays 2026 provides a unique perspective on what constitutes the best Canadian nonfiction writing published in the previous year. Featuring topics of motherhood and the choice to be child-free, climate change, catfishing, addiction and mental health, these fourteen essays offer poignant and clear-eyed insights into the diverse—sometimes underexplored—aspects of our society and ourselves.

Featuring:

Hollie Adams • Peter Babiak • Chris Banks • Ronna Bloom • Andreae Callanan • Kelsey Gilchrist • Cynthia Gralla • Basma Kavanagh • Mark Kingwell • Kyo Maclear • Stephen Marche • Shane Neilson • Ian Roy • Darryl Whetter