February is recognized as Black History Month in Canada. To commemorate this significant occasion, CBC Books has curated a collection of notable works by Black Canadian authors, encompassing both fictional narratives and nonfiction accounts.
Rebecca Fisseha’s novel, “Only Because It’s You,” delves into Miz’s dilemma when her close friend Kal faces the prospect of returning to Ethiopia. In a desperate attempt to prevent his departure, Miz proposes a temporary marriage, naively believing their bond will remain unaltered post-divorce.
Rebecca Fisseha, an Ethiopian Canadian writer residing in Toronto, has authored previous works such as “Daughters of Silence” and contributed to anthologies like “Addis Ababa Noir” and “Tongues: On Longing and Belonging Through Language.”
Tessa McWatt’s memoir, “The Snag,” chronicles her journey through her mother’s advancing dementia, leading to a profound exploration of grief and self-discovery amidst nature’s solace.
McWatt, a prolific author and creative writing professor at the University of East Anglia, has received accolades for her literary contributions, including the Bocas Prize for Non-Fiction and nominations for esteemed awards like the Governor General’s Literary Award.
Otoniya J. Okot Bitek’s novel, “We, the Kindling,” follows the lives of three women haunted by their childhood traumas from war-torn Uganda, even as they navigate the complexities of adulthood and motherhood.
Otoniya J. Okot Bitek, a celebrated poet and fiction writer of Ugandan heritage, has garnered critical acclaim for her poetry collections and was longlisted for the prestigious CBC Poetry Prize.
Zilla Jones’ novel, “The World So Wide,” intricately weaves the tale of Felicity Alexander, an opera star grappling with love, betrayal, and the transformative power of music against the backdrop of historical events like the U.S. invasion of Grenada.
Zilla Jones, a distinguished author hailing from Winnipeg, has earned numerous literary awards, including the Journey Prize and recognition as a prominent voice in Canadian literature.
Iryn Tushabe’s “Everything Is Fine Here” portrays the challenges faced by a younger sister supporting her older sibling in a country with stringent anti-LGBTQ laws, shedding light on familial bonds and societal pressures.
Iryn Tushabe, a Ugandan Canadian writer and journalist based in Regina, has been honored with prestigious literary awards and acknowledgments for her insightful storytelling.
Ian Williams’ novel, “You’ve Changed,” delves into the complex dynamics of a middle-aged couple navigating personal transformations and marital discord, offering a poignant reflection on self-identity and relationships.
Ian Williams, an accomplished author and professor, has received acclaim for his diverse literary works, including the Scotiabank Giller Prize-winning novel “Reproduction” and the thought-provoking Massey Lecture series.
Renée Sylvestre-Williams’ book, “The Singles Tax,” provides essential financial guidance tailored to single individuals facing economic challenges in a society that often favors couple-oriented benefits.
Renée Sylvestre-Williams, a seasoned journalist and financial expert based in Toronto, offers valuable insights on navigating financial independence and security in her insightful writings.
Jay Pitter’s “Black Public Joy” delves into the interconnected themes of community, pleasure, and urban equity through a profound exploration of cultural identity and spatial planning.
Jay Pitter, an esteemed author and urban planning professor, emphasizes the importance of fostering joy and inclusivity within urban environments, drawing on her diverse experiences in academia and advocacy.
Jibola Fagbamiye and Conor McCreery’s graphic novel, “Fela: Music is the Weapon,” portrays the life of Nigerian music icon Fela Kuti as he confronts political oppression and societal injustices through his music.
Jibola Fagbamiye, a Toronto-based visual artist, and Conor McCreery, a renowned comic book artist, collaborate to bring to life the compelling narrative of Fela Kuti’s courageous stand against corruption and tyranny.
Andre Alexis’ “Other Worlds” offers a captivating collection of short stories that traverse various settings and eras, exploring moments of profound revelation and bewilderment experienced by diverse characters.
Andre Alexis, a distinguished author originating from Trinidad and Tobago, has received critical acclaim and prestigious literary awards for his thought-provoking novels and short stories that challenge conventional narratives.
Terese Mason Pierre’s anthology, “As the Earth Dreams,” showcases speculative fiction by Black Canadian authors, envisioning vibrant and transformative futures through imaginative storytelling.
Terese Mason Pierre, an esteemed writer and editor, exemplifies a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and reshaping narratives through her engaging and visionary literary works.
Antonio Michael Downing’s novel, “Black Cherokee,” narrates Ophelia Blue Rivers’ quest for belonging and identity within a culturally rich yet conflicted South Carolina Cherokee community in the 1990s.
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