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Indian Express

From Margaret Atwood to Alice Munro: 5 must-read authors from the Land of the Maple Leaf

Authors are often called the voice of a nation — chronicling its struggles, its triumphs, and its evolving identity. Today (April 28), as Canadians head to the polls in a high-stakes election that could reshape the country's leadership and future, it is a fitting moment to pause and reflect on the storytellers who have helped define Canada beyond its politics. Across decades of change, Canadian authors have explored questions of belonging, resilience, justice, and imagination — themes that resonate during a pivotal national moments. Whether through poetry, fiction, or historical reflection, these writers offer insights into the forces that have shaped Canada, and into the possibilities that lie ahead. Here are five Canadian authors whose work deserves attention — today and every day. 1. Margaret Atwood No conversation about Canadian literature can begin without Margaret Atwood. For decades, she has examined power, survival, and the environment — subjects that feel especially urgent in a time of political and social flux. From her dystopian masterpiece The Handmaid's Tale to her intimate portraits of Canadian wilderness in Surfacing, Atwood remains a sharp, essential voice both at home and abroad. 2. Alice Munro Winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, Alice Munro has spent her career quietly reshaping the possibilities of the short story. Her richly detailed portraits of life in rural Ontario explore small moments of decision, revelation, and resilience. Dear Life is a brilliant entry point into her deeply humane work. The Swedish Academy dubbed her a 'master of the contemporary short story' when it awarded her the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2013. 3. Thomas King A master storyteller, Thomas King brings indigenous history, humor, and activism to the forefront of Canadian literature. His novel Green Grass, Running Water weaves traditional storytelling with contemporary satire, offering a reflection on indigenous identity and resilience. 4. Yann Martel With Life of Pi, Yann Martel captured the world's imagination, blending spiritual exploration with a gripping survival story. His work often grapples with faith, hope, and the power of storytelling itself — ideas that take on heightened significance during uncertain times. 5. Dionne Brand One of Canada's most celebrated poets and novelists, Dionne Brand writes passionately about race, migration, and belonging. Her novel What We All Long For explores the dreams and disillusionments of young people in Toronto, offering an unflinching portrait of urban life.