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, the 2026 edition of Best Canadian Essays provides a unique perspective on what constitutes the best Canadian nonfiction writing published in the last year, offering 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