From my early beginnings as a young introvert, the public library has always been a bit of a refuge. Years later, not much has changed, albeit with an additional affinity for endless hours spent scouring second-hand bookstores to add to my ever-growing “to-read” pile.
From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics. Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column? Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.
Who
This week, we take a slightly different approach to this column, shifting away from a focus on authors and themes, to consider a recent list of bestsellers in Canada, according to approximately 300 independent bookstores. In particular, we consider the 2023 indie bestseller list.
What
The diverse list of bestsellers includes a variety of genres including literary fiction, autobiographies, and graphic novels. The top three bestsellers on the list were Ducks by Kate Beaton, Greenwood by Michael Christie, and Five Little Indians by Michelle Good.
For those interested, the top ten included works by Margaret Atwood, Bob Joseph, Cherie Dimaline, and Jessica Johns, among others.
Where
These works are set throughout Canada, including Alberta, Nova, Scotia, and British Columbia.
When
These works primarily take place in the 21st century.
Why
These bestsellers could be of interest to AU learners who enjoy diverse themes, such as environmentalism, trauma, and loss. They can also help readers learn more about Canada’s history and present, such as what occurred during the residential school system and the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples, issues with the environment, as well as concerns about Alberta’s oil sands.
How
AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth. Courses related to the works of bestselling authors from Canada are available in a variety of disciplines, including some that may fit into your Degree Works. (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)
AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in HIST 225: History of Canada, 1867 to the Present, a junior-level, three-credit course, which “provides a survey of Canada’s political, social, and economic development from 1867 to the present.” (Although no prerequisites are required, students are encouraged to have completed HIST 224: History of Canada to 1867).
In addition, student may be interested in ENVS 200: Introduction to Environmental Studies, a junior-level, three-credit course, which “introduces students to the field of environmental studies and provides them with basic information about a variety of environmental issues, concepts, debates, events, and actors or thinkers.” (No prerequisites are required for this course). Happy reading!
