The Smiling Land: All Around the Circle in My Newfoundland and Labrador

by Alan Doyle

From one of Canada's most beloved and celebrated Newfoundlanders comes a rollicking insider's guide to the province, told as only Alan Doyle can tell it.

Few Canadian musicians or authors are as synonymous with their home province as Alan Doyle is with Newfoundland. And now Alan wants to introduce the rest of the world to his home, taking readers on a freewheeling, eclectic trip through the province. From Fogo Island to the Southwest Coast, Labrador to Ferryland and everywhere in-between, Alan's Newfoundland awaits. 

There are plenty of stops along the way to admire the sites and take in the history and culture. Among the stops, a discussion of Newfoundland's eccentric place names, which include Horse Chops Island, Bread and Cheese Cove, and, the (in)famous, Dildo. There are visits to wind-swept coastlines and towering crags, former Beothuk, Viking and Basque settlements, as well as more recent settlements, such as Foley's Shed, a jaunty live-music pub that—as its name suggests—happens to be located in some guy named Foley's shed. There are savvy insider tips, such as how to score fish and chips and a free ride by hopping into the delivery person's car as they deliver your food to your desired destination. And what tour of Alan's Newfoundland could be complete without a short history of what can best be described as "icebergs that look like things," an illustrious history that includes an exact replica of the Virgin Mary that once washed into St. John's harbour, and the more recent—and far less holy—"Dickie Berg," which made international headlines for looking like . . . well, not the Virgin Mary.

Wildly entertaining, informative and brimming with Alan's classic brand of storytelling and romping good fun, The Smiling Land is sure to delight even the most travel-adverse reader among us.

Genres: Nonfiction, Canada, Audiobook, Book Club, Travel, Music

264 pages, Hardcover

Published November 4, 2025

About the author

ALAN DOYLE is a Canadian musician and actor, best known as a lead singer in the Canadian folk-rock band Great Big Sea. In 2012, Doyle released his first solo album, Boy on Bridge, which made the top twenty on the Canadian Albums chart. Alan lives in St. John's, Newfoundland.

Reviews

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as I learned about this book, I knew I had to read it. Newfoundland is my absolute favourite place in the world. I have visited 40+ times, I’m married to a Newfoundlander. And, Alan Doyle (formerly of Great Big Sea) is one of my favourite Canadian singers. He is so full of life and joy, simply infectious. I've read and loved his previous books.

This book is a tour around a few parts of Newfoundland, the province Alan is from and lives in. It's not just a travelogue, it's a bit of history, a lot of culture and humorous anecdotes. Alan covers everything from the history of churches, the Vikings and alcohol smuggling. He is quick to laugh at himself, he is very humble. He writes just as he talks, I’m sure the audio version would be just like a conversation with him.

Alan takes us, the reader, through many places. And, he only covered a small portion of the province. He shows us that even though the population is relatively small, it is quite diverse: from customs to local accents.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I smiled quite a few times as Alan talked about The Smiling Land. Even though I have been to Newfoundland many times and seen many sights, I still have not seen it all.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.

[Brandon St. Croix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the reflection of the province and small stories from past and current day intertwined in this book. Great job and even more enjoyable in Audiobook

[Kelly Bellware · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fourth and latest by Great Big Sea frontman, Alan Doyle. Join Doyle as he travels around his island home of Newfoundland with his wife and teenaged son. This hilarious and fact-filled road trip made me feel like I was back in one of my favourite places on earth. For fans of Alan Doyle and anyone who has ever been - or dreams of visiting/returning - to Newfoundland. (Pssst! Do it!) ❤️

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a love letter and travel guide to Newfoundland and Labrador, written by a lifelong resident, tour and museum guide, and frontman of Great Big Sea. Each chapter brings together people, history, and personal memory as he travels the island. I loved discovering corners of Newfoundland I’d never thought about before (I saved so many spots to check out), and realizing just how big and culturally rich the province is. This book is warm and affectionate without being overly romanticized. Some rough edges are there, especially the realities of shifting from a cod-based economy to tourism. It’s hard, and it’s working. I want to see the whales and puffins, drink in the pubs, and snuggle under a quilt. My main takeaway is to start planning a visit, just not in February.

Thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday Canada for the advance copy.

[Ellen McClure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another 5 star read from the man who has made me laugh, cry and want to go to Newfoundland and Labrador since his first book came out. Such an amazing gathering of local sights, anecdotes and reasons to see all parts of your home, and other, provinces and territories. Honestly, I don't have anything bad to say about this. It was charming and well paced. If you haven't read an Alan Doyle book, what's your hold up? Do it, please. I promise you won't regret it.

[Rebecca Jebson - Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent audiobook! A must read if you plan to visit Newfoundland, great inspiration.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Smiling Land is Alan Doyle's fourth book and as always its a pleasent reading/listening experience. This time it is a love letter to Newfoundland and Labrador as he travels through out the island to various towns/communities and historical landmarks part of which he did the journey with his wife and son.

If you are familiar with Alan Doyle or even just Great Big Sea you know Alan is a natural storyteller and as always he puts his heart and soul in these stories. Honestly Newfoundland and Labrador tourism should be paying for the free advertising he's giving the province. And if you don't want to go after reading this what's wrongs with yous? Truly a delight to read/listen especially on audiobook. I loves it.

[Lindsay B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Looking forward to the day when I can finally visit « The Smiling Land » ❤️

[Samantha Porterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of Doyle since Great Big Sea played in the hollow at McMaster University in their early days. And I’ve been a fan of Newfoundland since I first travelled there in 2019. But after this book, I definitely need to plan a return trip to visit more of the unique places Doyle shared in this book. Loved listening to Alan share his Nfld stories and research in the audiobook.

[Todd Christian · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a cozy read, felt like I was traveling with Alan Doyle the whole time.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Alan Doyle, great way to hear about Newfoundland and Labrador!

[Lukas Jarron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun to read while bumming around Newfoundland

[DaEun · Rating 5 out of 5]

cutie lil gift from Ryan!! made my nfld wish list

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved travelling around Newfoundland to places I've been and other places I haven't! Such good travel inspiration, as if I needed more. Loves the silly Alan Doyle narrative along the way as well. Perfect read.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all of Alan's books and they are always an enjoyable read. Funny, heartwarming and entertaining. I really enjoyed reading this one about his travels across Newfoundland and it just made me want to go back and visit all the places I never got to see. I loved all the little bits of trivia he throws in and I even learned a few things I didn't know like despite the fact I am married to a Newfie, I have been pronouncing Quiddi Vidi wrong my entire life. Who knew?!

[Michelle Poirier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read (or listen to an audiobook narrated by Alan Doyle (of the Great Big Sea), I have a smile from ear to ear. Many times listening to this book while driving, I laughed out loud. Real loud! Like belly roared! He is the best at funny anecdotes without ever insulting anyone or any place. One of Newfoundland’s greatest ambassadors, he takes us on a journey of NFLD’s beautiful scenery and culture. It’s on my bucket list to meet Alan Doyle one day at a kitchen party! There it is. I put it out into the universe. He is a great musician and an amazing storyteller!

[Reading_seas0n · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, Penguin Random House Canada (Adult) | Doubleday Canada and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book honestly. Here is my opinion on the book!

There is a special place in my heart for books that share personal experiences and journeys.

As someone who immigrated to Canada when I was in my mid teens, I missed a lot of Canadian moments many have or learn growing up and discovered them through my friends and by accident later in life. One of my goals is to explore Canada, so when I saw this book and the fact that I recognized Alan Doyle (From his play work, please don't be mad it wasn't from his music/band) I requested.
We are showed a map with cute drawing about certain spots at the beginning of the book and as we read we get small information about the backstory of the spots visited and traveled as well as personal moments between Alan & his family on the journey.

I think this will be a sweet book to gift those who love Alan Doyle, who love Canadian Travel/experiences and sweet books that show family travel and history.

Side note: I did wish there were some pictures that accompanied the book as I would have like to see if the descriptions matched in my head.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a recent move to Newfoundland, this book got me so excited for all there is to explore and love here.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Smiling Land by Alan Doyle is a journey around Newfoundland, the author’s home, one with which he is totally in love. It is full of lyrical descriptions and wry observations about a place that has fascinated me for years. This is the man to read if you are interesting in this amazing part of the world. He has a way with words and will charm his way into your heart with his musings. For a very occasional non-fiction reader, this hit the mark.

I was invited to read The Smiling Land by Penguin Random House Canada. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #PenguinRandomHouseCanada #AlanDoyle #TheSmilingLand

[Debbie George · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book I have read this year! This is a wonderful tribute to Newfoundland and Labrador. Alan Doyle vividly brings it alive, and I cannot wait until I can explore the many many places he recommends.

[Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I have not had the opportunity as of yet to undertake a trip to "the Rock" I feel like I just returned home, after reading Doyle's delightful travelogue of his various journeys around his home province. Doyle's voice is entertaining and he weaves in history, humour, personal life stories with vivid descriptions of the places and people he encounters in his travels. This was a fitting choice for a personal Read the North challenge I am undertaking this year and I would recommend it to any Canadian with an interest in the history and culture of our great eastern coast.

[Amy Hueston · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good read! As expected, Alan Doyle tells a good story, adding humour and emotion throughout. I kept having to stop and search places on Google, all of which look amazing. I think I just gave 4 stars because I prefer his own personal stories, but it was great to hear some background from the history of our eastern-most province :)

[Lana Wilkinson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book certainly made me smile. It definitely draws you to Newfoundland and Labrador.

[One Lonely Owl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do yourself a favour, and read this book. Better yet, listen to it on audiobook. I have said this a dozen times, if I have said it once, and that is, Alan Doyle is by far, the best ambassador of Newfoundland and Labrador in my generation, and maybe even of all time. It is said that Newfoundlanders are wonderful story tellers. Well, this book (and all of his others) are proof that Alan comes by it honestly.

I laughed. Out loud. Multiple times while listening to this book. Henry may be giving his dad a run for his money with his humour. I cried. Multiple times. This book has it all. If you want, you can just read or listen to the wonderful stories and imagine the scenery as it is so well depicted. Or, better yet, use this book as a tour guide. Take a trip. Try the food. Take the photos. Talk to the people.

When I lived in Australia for a period in 2010, I had many people ask me why I was so eager to "go outside every day", even when I was hung over. Alan sums it up nicely. When you grow up where you don't always get sun, you take advantage on the days that you do. In Australia, there is a lot of sun. So I felt guilty if I didn't take advantage. And I'm glad I did.

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador was my home for 18 years. It is hard to believe that I have lived in Alberta longer. But as Alan says, Newfoundland will always be home.

Thank you, Alan. For everything. I wish I was there in the parking lot on that tour bus to watch you back the camper out 😉

See you in March for your tour.

-a displaced Newfie who misses home

[Darwin Froese · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely exceptional.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

very cute and informative

as someone who visited nfld in 2024 and then immediately booked a trip for 2025 I understand the energy of the island and it's magnetic pull

[Reader Sean · Rating 4 out of 5]

I met Allan had a concert backstage. He was there with The Barenaked ladies. The reason I’m sharing this is because this book is exactly how this man is. He is a true father, a kind, Canadian, and a fantastic performer.

[Ashley Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this on audio for Alan Doyle's narration while also Reading it as an ebook. this was a part memoir parts travel guide showcasing the numerous wonders that Newfoundland and Labrador possess. As the only Eastern province I have yet to visit, this book really makes you want to hop on a plane and visit ASAP. I loved hearing about Alan's own experiences in each of these towns, but also a lot of the local lore and stories told to him by many of the townies.

From the best places to sleep, to eat, to hike, to enjoy a great brew, great tunes, and great scenic views, this book showcases it all, with the added bonus of enjoying the Newfoundland accent, if you get a chance to listen to this on audio. A great read!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was a big fan of Great Big Sea back in the day, though lately haven’t followed Alan Doyle or read any of his previous books - this is more exuberant travel guide than memoir but is punctuated with appropriate stories from Doyle’s life or local history when relevant to the location he’s detailing. I thought he did a great job writing (and narrating!) this, and I felt like I was there, or rather like I wanted to be there!I have visited Newfoundland before and now I certainly want to go back and visit all the places he talks about!

Thank you to Libro.fm and Doubleday Canada for the Audiobook Listening Copy.

[Kelly (miss_kellysbookishcorner) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: The Smiling Land: All Around the Circle in MY Newfoundland and Labrador
Author: Alan Doyle
Genre: Non Fiction
Rating: 4.00
Pub Date: November 4, 2025

T H R E E • W O R D S

Savvy • Infectious • Comical

📖 S Y N O P S I S

Few Canadian musicians are as synonymous with their home province as Alan Doyle is to his—and even fewer once worked as tour guides. In The Smiling Land, Alan reprises his tour-guiding role to welcome the rest of Canada to his home and take readers on an adventure: a freewheeling road trip through Newfoundland, its history, and its culture. From Fogo Island to the Southwest Coast, Labrador to Ferryland, and everywhere in between, Alan's Newfoundland awaits you.

💭 T H O U G H T S

Growing up I listened to Great Big Sea regularly, so when I saw The Smiling Land announced I didn't bother reading the synopsis and simply added it to my TBR. I falsely expected this to be a memoir, but that's on me for not bothering to read the premise. However, I must say this was an absolute delight to listen to and I am so glad it came onto my radar.

Alan Doyle delivers an insider's guide to his beloved home province in his classic storytelling ability. He, along with his family, travel to a variety of different places around the province sharing humourous anecdotes along the way. This book allowed me to grasp the diversity of the landscape, people, and culture and appreciate the province a whole lot more. I was captivated by everything he had to share, both historically and modern.

The audiobook, read by Alan himself, was highly entertaining. I couldn't help but smile at his antics and side notes as he travels from one place to the next. He tells his stories in a simple and accessible manner making it feel as though I was simply sitting down to have a conversation with him about his travels. His love for his province shines through with such vivid descriptions.

Travelling to Newfoundland and Labrador has always been on my bucket list of travel destinations, yet after reading The Smiling Land it's save to say it has moved up said list. Alan Doyle has delivered a celebration of all that Newfoundland and Labrador is in this entertaining and compact journey. I didn't know until I'd finished that Doyle has released several other books and now I look forward to exploring them.

📚 R E A D • I F • Y O U • L I K E
• travelogues
• Alan Doyle
• Canadian landscapes