Indigo’s ‘Best Books of the Year’ list for 2026 is out and the stories range from a trad-wife influencer who wakes up in the time she is emulating to a sweeping epic involving three generations of Cree women to a biting critique examining the outrageous homicide rate in the U.S.
Chosen by committee and readers from Indigo, these books are worth your while.
Each year, the bookseller highlights exceptional literary works. Canadians Michelle Good, Manuel Garand, Malcolm Gladwell and Emily St John Mandel made the 2026 list with a range of stories exploring time, identity and even the end of the world.
Best Books of the Year
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No. 1
Yesteryear
By Caro Claire Burke
The buzziest book of the year, Yesteryear follows a Christian ‘tradwife’ influencer whose persona collapses when she wakes up in 1855. It combines brutal satire and suspense as fantasy and reality collide.
No. 2
Eliza Sunshine
By Michelle Good
Shortlisted for the Giller Prize, Eliza Sunshine tells the stories of three generations of Cree women as they navigate the challenges of colonialism, residential school trauma and the meaning of home
No. 3
Exit Party
By Emily St. John Mandel
Spanning the globe from L.A. to Paris, Exit Party asks: “Who do you want to be with when the world ends?”
No. 4
The Calamity Club
by Kathryn Stockett
An epic historical novel set during the Great Depression, The Calamity Club showcases an unlikely group of women who band together in a story of resilience, friendship and survival.
No. 5
Murdoku Vol. 3: Around the World
by Manuel Garand
Super Canadian collection of murder-mystery logic puzzles, Murdoku Vol. 3 blends challenges with compelling storytelling, creating a fresh look at the puzzle genre.
No. 6
Peck & Peck
By Bonnie Garmus
1982. New York City. Batter Gray just graduated with a degree in poetry and lands a job at an elite literary journal, the titular Peck & Peck. Soon, he is in a tug of war with the publication’s twin founders.
No. 7
Into the Blue
By Emma Brodie
Spanning decades and the world of entertainment, Into the Blue is a heartfelt love story at its core. It is set against a backdrop of long-buried secrets, distance and the price of fame.
No. 8
Redwood
By Ben Macintyre
This non-fiction book tells the true tale of a Soviet KGB officer operating in Iran who became a double agent for Britain’s MI6 during the Cold War. Redwood is one of those books that’s hard to believe is true because it is such a wild story.
No. 9
John of John
By Douglas Stuart
In John of John, a young art school graduate comes home to a remote Scottish island and confronts family secrets, identity and a complicated bond with his father.
No. 10
The American Way of Killing
By Malcolm Gladwell
Rounding out Indigo’s Top 10, The American Way of Killing is a provocative non-fiction book that explores why the United States experiences fatal violence at a much higher rate than other nations.
Best Books of the Year Kids
Indigo is also celebrating with the ‘Best Books of the Year Kids’ list, which includes more Canadian authors.
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No. 1
A Fishboy Named… Sashimi
By Dan Santat
Two worlds collide in this beautifully illustrated tale about a fishboy who disguises himself as a human student while the small seaside town hunts for a sea creature.
No. 2
The Skeleton and the Cat
By Brandon James Scott
An unlikely friendship between a skeleton and a cat blends adventure, humour and heart.
No. 3
The Lions’ Run
By Sara Pennypacker
A middle-grade novel that follows a group of young people navigating challenges, courage and survival in a sweeping historical adventure.
No. 4
The Future Book
By Mac Barnett
An exploration of the future that encourages young readers to think creatively about technology, innovation and the world ahead.
No. 5
The Neverfear
By Katherine Rundell
The latest instalment in Rundell’s fantasy adventure series, featuring magical creatures, danger and a quest that tests bravery and friendship.
No. 6
The Ultimate Robert Munsch Sticker and Activity Book
By Robert Munsch
This collection is inspired by the beloved Canadian author’s stories, packed with games, stickers and interactive fun.
No. 7
The Hockey Song
By Stompin’ Tom Connors & Brenda Jones
A picture book adaptation of the iconic Canadian anthem celebrating hockey culture and community spirit.
No. 8
Witchward Bound: A Butter and Owl Adventure
By Erin Bow
Butter and Owl embark on a journey filled with friendship, discovery and enchantment.
No. 9
Snake & Bat: What Will We Find in This Box?
By Mo Willems
Two friends investigate a mysterious box and discover plenty of surprises along the way.
No. 10
An Anthology of Gems
By Anthea Lacchia
Young readers are introduced to gemstones and their history, science and cultural significance.
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