Cloudy skies and rainy weather have made their way to British Columbia, signaling the end of a scorching summer. It’s the ideal moment to unwind, brew a cup of tea, and snuggle up with a captivating book under a warm blanket.
British Columbia is renowned for its talented local authors who are dedicated to crafting stories that showcase the beauty of this province. CBC British Columbia has curated a selection of recently published books by B.C. writers, many of which are set in B.C. locales, to enhance your fall reading list.
Eddy Boudel Tan’s debut novel, “The Tiger and The Cosmonaut,” has garnered attention since its release in April and has even been shortlisted for the Giller Prize this autumn. The narrative revolves around Casper Han, who returns to his secluded B.C. hometown after his father vanishes, triggering memories of his missing twin brother from two decades ago.
In Vancouver, Daniel Kalla’s latest thriller, “The Deepest Fake,” delves into the story of an AI innovator who, amidst personal turmoil, launches an app allowing communication with deceased loved ones. As he confronts his mortality and uncovers unsettling truths, the plot unfolds into a gripping exploration of humanity.
Joanna Cockerline, based in Kelowna, presents her debut novel, “Still,” which sheds light on the life of an unhoused sex worker searching for a missing friend. Through her poignant storytelling, Cockerline aims to evoke empathy by revealing moments of beauty and hope in unexpected circumstances.
Clara Kumagai’s YA novel, “Songs for Ghosts,” draws inspiration from the opera “Madama Butterfly” and weaves a tale of a young boy discovering a haunting diary in his attic. Kumagai’s narrative explores themes of identity and the past, resonating with readers seeking a captivating ghost story.
In memory of former premier John Horgan, who passed away in 2024, a memoir titled “John Horgan: In His Own Words” has been released, chronicling his journey from a sports enthusiast to a prominent figure in Canadian politics. Co-authored by Rod Mickleburgh, the memoir offers insights into Horgan’s legacy and contributions to British Columbia.
Jen Sookfong Lee’s novel, “The Hunger We Pass Down,” combines elements of horror and intergenerational trauma as it follows the generational struggles of women in Hong Kong and East Vancouver. Lee’s storytelling delves into themes of survival, resilience, and the enduring impact of inherited trauma.
For those seeking a different narrative, Ziyad Saadi’s debut novel, “Three Parties,” presents a compelling story of a Palestinian refugee navigating personal revelations at his birthday celebration. Drawing parallels to Virginia Woolf’s work, Saadi explores themes of identity, sexuality, and belonging, offering a fresh perspective on modern storytelling.
These captivating reads by B.C. authors promise to enrich your literary journey this fall with diverse narratives that captivate the imagination and touch the heart.