Hooked on Canadian Books: The Good, the Better, and the Best Canadian Novels since 1984

by T.F. Rigelhof

Having been a contributing reviewer for The Globe and Mail for more than twenty years, T.F. Rigelhof knows good literature. This conversational survey of the novels published since 1984 presents his readings of well-known Canadian writers while bringing the work of newer and lesser-known voices to more deserving attention.

Genres: Nonfiction, Canada

336 pages, Hardcover

First published April 10, 2010

Reviews

[Erma Odrach · Rating 5 out of 5]

T.F. Rigelhof presents an impressive work of literary criticism, highlighting the country’s great talent since 1984. But it’s more than just a criticism, it’s a celebration of Canadian literature with works from over a hundred writers from Michael Ondaatje to Timothy Findley to Yann Martel. Newer lesser known writers are also featured, who have affected Rigelhof in some way, such as Brad Smith, “a carpenter by trade (he’s also been a farmer, a railway signalman, insulator, truck driver …) he’s funny, poignant, evocative, and he tells a blistering tale.”

A lover of books, a critic, and a reviewer for the Globe and Mail, Rigelhof knows his books, and has probably read more Canadian fiction than any one else around. But in Hooked on Canadian Books, Rigelhof takes his critic/reviewer hat off and becomes simply a reader, sharing with other readers “…writers that have made a difference in this reader’s life.”

With his insights, arguments and observations on what the Canadian novel is or is not, and often with an international perspective, he generates more than enough discussion and debate for all lovers of fiction. A perfect accompaniment for any book club. Highly recommended

[Bill · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got this book as a Christmas gift about 5 years ago. I initially thought it was a collection of short stories by Canadian authors but, instead, it's a list of the authors favourite Canadian novels and authors from 1984 on. I took a Canadian Literature course at university back in 1976 so it seemed to be a perfect book to maybe give me some ideas for possible new Canadian authors. It was an interesting book, more than just a list of books. Rather each section of authors followed a theme and each story / author mentioned also included thoughts on the writer's history and style and also thoughts on the various books. I readily admit that I've noted many of the books and have purchased some already. (3.5 stars)

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you're Canadian or not; a reader or writer, I recommend you pick up this book. Really interesting and packed full of great quotes, information, and thoughts on writing and publishing and just all sorts of great stuff. I wrote a longer review here: http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-48... if you want to check it out.

Thanks Erma, for recommending I read this. I'm glad I did.

[Shélah]

I keep meaning to read more Canadian books, but my list of Canadian literature was so long I didn’t know where to start. I picked this publication up in order to narrow down my list and hopefully find books that would be worth reading. Riglehof presents a well-thought-out list of modern Canadiana with summaries that should provide insight into whether or not we as readers might be interested in the subject matter – in fact, all of the books sound worthwhile. That said, there are a few glaring omissions, and it seems unfortunate to include five works by one author while ignoring the works of (for example) Ann-Marie MacDonald. Additionally, the list is overpopulated by men: approximately two-thirds of the books on the list were authored by males. If an entire section hadn’t been devoted specifically to women, that number would be much smaller. Whether this is because Riglehof has a preference for male authors and their works (completely fair), or there are simply that few female authors in Canada (also completely fair if it is true), I’m not sure, but again, with some of the glaring female absences (i.e., Camilla Gibb), this seems rather more lopsided than it needs to be.

If you, like me, are attempting to figure out what to read next, you’re sure to find something in here, although I’m not sure it’s a book I would want to own. Additionally, the fact that the book is promoted (on the jacket) only by authors who have been included detracts a bit from its inherent value, in my humble opinion.

[Keith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Over the years I've picked up many books that discuss what to read or the best novels ever. All have been useful but Rigelhof's Hooked on Canadian Books is the best of the lot. RIgelhof's method is based on his long experience as a reviewer, his attention to the details of the book and his deep knowledge of the subject. Each book that he discusses is given a brief plot summary, often with quotations, and his opinions contrasted with other reviewers. The book is enhanced by being exclusive and containing only what Rigelhof considers the best. His palpable sense of enthusiasm for these books is infectious and I found myself littering the text with sticky notes for titles that really grabbed my interest. Canadian literature contains many authors famous outside of Canada - Atwood, Martel, Ondaatje to name just three but, as with any national literature, there are hundreds of other writers, often with great talent, that don't get adequate recognition even in their native country. Rigelhof's book is a marvelous corrective to this. I have assembled a reading list from this book that I know will keep me entertained for some time.

[Martha]

did not enjoy or learn as much as expected