Tegan Quin emerged victorious in the 2026 edition of Canada Reads after engaging in intense debates over four days. Her advocacy for Loghan Paylor’s novel, “The Cure for Drowning,” triumphed during the elimination vote on April 16.
Canada Reads features five Canadian personalities selecting a book for national reading. Each day, the participants debate and eliminate one selection until a final winner is determined. Quin, a renowned musician from Tegan and Sara, effectively argued that “The Cure for Drowning” exemplified the theme of “one book to build bridges.”
“The Cure for Drowning” narrates the story of Kit McNair, born to an Irish farming family in Ontario, who faces identity struggles. The novel unfolds a complex love triangle involving Kit, her brother Landon, and Rebekah, a German Canadian doctor’s daughter. Their paths diverge during wartime but lead them back home to confront life’s challenges.
Throughout the competition, Quin passionately advocated for the book’s ability to offer diverse perspectives and promote empathy. She emphasized the novel’s potential to broaden readers’ understanding and foster unity in a society divided by issues like trans rights and LGBTQ discrimination.
Paylor, the author of “The Cure for Drowning,” expressed overwhelming joy at winning Canada Reads, particularly in a year focused on bridging divides. They highlighted the book’s role in bringing people together and fostering empathy amid societal tensions.
“The Cure for Drowning” clinched the victory, resonating with Quin’s belief that it offers a relatable narrative that encourages readers to reflect on personal struggles and choices. Paylor, based in British Columbia, holds an MA in creative writing and has garnered literary accolades for their works.
In the competition, Tyler Hellard’s “Searching for Terry Punchout” emerged as the runner-up, championed by hockey broadcaster Steve (Dangle) Glynn. The novel delves into a complex father-son relationship within the backdrop of sports journalism, ultimately falling short in the final vote.
Tegan and Sara, the sibling duo behind Quin’s musical success, have not only received numerous awards for their music but have also made significant contributions to literature and LGBTQ advocacy. Their foundation, supporting 2SLGBTQ+ communities, earned them the Humanitarian Award at the Junos in 2024.
The engaging debates of Canada Reads 2026 showcased Quin’s compelling arguments for “The Cure for Drowning” as a book that resonates with Canadians on a personal level. Her championing of the novel underscored its universal themes of identity and self-discovery, making it a deserving winner of this year’s prestigious literary competition.
