Tegan Quin emerged victorious in the 2026 edition of Canada Reads after engaging in compelling debates for four consecutive days. Her advocacy for “The Cure for Drowning” by Loghan Paylor proved successful as the book survived the elimination vote on April 16.
Canada Reads features five prominent Canadian figures who each nominate a book they believe all Canadians should read. Over the course of four days, the panelists defend their selections, eliminating one book daily until a winner emerges.
As a musician and author from the duo Tegan and Sara, Quin effectively argued that “The Cure for Drowning” exemplifies the theme of “one book to build bridges.” The novel recounts the story of Kit McNair, born to an Irish farming family in Ontario, who grapples with identity and love amidst societal expectations.
Quin passionately championed the book throughout the week, highlighting its ability to offer diverse perspectives and foster empathy. She emphasized the importance of both enjoyment and learning that readers can derive from the novel.
Loghan Paylor, the author of “The Cure for Drowning,” expressed immense joy at winning Canada Reads, particularly in a year focused on bridging divides. Paylor acknowledged the book’s role in bringing people together and promoting understanding and empathy in a time of societal discord.
In a heartfelt statement, Paylor reflected on the impact of Quin’s support, noting how her music influenced their life and how her championing of the book had been transformative. The runner-up, “Searching for Terry Punchout” by Tyler Hellard, fell short in a 4-1 vote on the final day.
Apart from her literary achievements, Quin, along with her sister Sara, has made significant contributions to music and advocacy. The Tegan and Sara Foundation, aimed at supporting 2SLGBTQ+ communities, exemplifies their commitment to social causes.
The 2026 Canada Reads winner, Tegan Quin, brought a compassionate perspective to the debates, underscoring the relatability of “The Cure for Drowning” to all Canadians. Paylor, an Ontario-born writer now based in B.C., has received accolades for their debut novel and other literary works.
The show, hosted by Ali Hassan, featured a diverse array of contenders and their chosen books, each sparking engaging discussions and highlighting the power of storytelling in fostering understanding and unity among Canadians.
