best canadian history novels

One of the best is 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood. Although it's a dystopian novel, it reflects on aspects of Canadian and broader historical and social issues. Another great one is 'Alias Grace' also by Atwood. It delves into the story of a real - life 19th - century Canadian murderess and the society of that time.

Well, 'In the Skin of a Lion' by Michael Ondaatje. This novel focuses on the lives of immigrants in Canada during the early 20th century. It shows their struggles and contributions to building the nation. It's beautifully written and full of historical details.

Canadian history novels contribute a great deal. They often depict the unique landscapes, which are an important part of Canadian culture. For example, novels set in the Canadian wilderness show the connection Canadians have with nature. Also, they portray the different ethnic groups and how they've interacted over time. This helps in understanding the multicultural nature of Canadian culture.

Well, 'Alias Grace' by Margaret Atwood is a great Canadian history novel. It's based on a true story and explores the life of a female convict in the 19th - century Canada. Also, 'The Colony of Unrequited Dreams' by Wayne Johnston. It tells the story of Joey Smallwood and his role in Newfoundland's entry into Canada, giving a vivid picture of that period in Canadian history. Then there's 'The Diviners' by Margaret Laurence which shows different aspects of Canadian life in the past through the eyes of its characters.

Often, they have a strong sense of place. For example, they vividly describe the Quebecois landscape, from the snowy winters to the rural villages. This helps to set the historical context.

Some of the well - known Canadian novels could include 'Anne of Green Gables' by Lucy Maud Montgomery. It tells the story of an orphan girl, Anne, with red hair and a vivid imagination. Another one might be 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood which is a dystopian novel that has gained international acclaim for its exploration of a totalitarian society where women are subjugated. Also, 'Alias Grace' by Atwood is often considered among the greats, which delves into the story of a real - life 19th - century Canadian murderess.

Identity is another important theme. Many novels explore how black Canadians define themselves in relation to their African heritage, their Canadian nationality, and the broader global black community. For example, characters may grapple with questions of belonging and cultural assimilation. The novels show how they navigate between different cultural identities and how they resist or embrace the dominant Canadian culture while still holding onto their black roots.

Many best Canadian novels often deal with themes related to the Canadian identity. For example, they might explore the vast and diverse landscapes of Canada, like the frozen tundras in the north or the idyllic rural areas. They also tend to focus on the experiences of different ethnic groups within Canada, given its multicultural nature. For instance, novels may depict the struggles and triumphs of immigrants as they adapt to a new life in Canada.

A great Canadian novel is 'Fifth Business' by Robertson Davies. It's a complex exploration of a man's life, his relationships, and his search for meaning. It weaves together elements of history, psychology, and mythology. 'The Diviners' by Margaret Laurence is also a top - notch Canadian novel. It tells the story of a young woman's journey of self - discovery in the Canadian prairies, dealing with issues such as family, identity, and the past. 'The Stone Diaries' by Carol Shields is another excellent one. It chronicles the life of an ordinary woman in a way that is both deeply moving and full of insights about the human condition.

One of the best is 'The Invisible Library' by Genevieve Cogman. It has a unique concept of a library that exists across different realities. Another great one is 'Brown Girl in the Ring' by Nalo Hopkinson which combines Caribbean folklore with a post - apocalyptic Toronto setting. And 'The Bone Cage' by Angie Abdou is also highly regarded, exploring themes of athleticism and self - discovery within a fantasy framework.