As a contributing reviewer for The Globe and Mail for more than twenty years, T.F. Rigelhof is a trusted source when it comes to finding good literature. Hooked on Canadian Books: The Good, The Better, and The Best Canadian Novels Since 1984, is a list of the novels published by Canadian authors since 1984 that Rigelhof feels are “the good, the better, and the best.” But in my opinion, it offers more than just a list.
To be honest, when I came across this book, recommended to me by a friend, I thought it would be tough to get through. I mean, it’s not a “story” and I typically avoid nonfiction unless researching. But I was pleasantly surprised within the first pages. His writing is conversational, as though you and he are discussing Canadian Literature rather than the author simply 'telling' you about it, and it draws you in immediately.
Rigelhof opens the book with a story about his relationship with the Montreal bookstore where he became hooked on Canadian books. Along with that story, Rigelhof relates personal stories about his picks and writes about Canadian literature and its stereotypes. In fact, I was hooked from the introduction simply because of the debate that this book encourages; not only about Canadian books, but writing and publishing as well. There are several excerpts in the first pages that a writer can take away and learn from.
Rigelhof doesn’t just include well-known authors either. There are some lesser known gems in this book worth checking out. He examines Canadian literature from the point of view of a reader, and he features a very broad spectrum of writing. Within the pages of Hooked you’ll find authors you’ve loved for years, but you’ll also find some that will soon become favourites.
Of course, not everyone will agree with his picks. Reading and literary taste is a very subjective thing and you could ask any number of people to list their ten favourite books and why they love them and you’ll have a unique list from each person every time. Some will argue about who was left out and who Rigelhof chose in their place, but it is a book worth picking up. Why? I often hear people mention the need for more informed literary debate in Canada, and that many readers aren’t aware just how much talent we have; Hooked has done the work for us. The purpose of the book (in my opinion) is to open up discussion on Canadian Literature. It would make a valuable addition to libraries and one that book clubs would benefit greatly from. It begins a dialogue about Canadian literature and highlights the amazing diversity and talent our writers boast.
For writers, Hooked includes quotes and anecdotes from both Rigelhof and other authors that are priceless. In fact, several of them made this writer pause and consider the goals in my own writing. Hooked also tripled my reading list.
Pick up Hooked on Canadian Books, you’ll be glad you did.
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Comments
It sounds like a book to put on my to-read list.
Great review and spotlight, Renee. I read Hooked through once and now I use it as a reference. It's become indispensable.
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