Tegan Quin, part of the renowned music duo Tegan and Sara, has always had a strong love for reading. She fondly recalls how she and her sister Sara frequented the library during their childhood, where they could borrow books equal to their age. When not busy with music endeavors, Quin immerses herself in a variety of genres, from compelling fiction to impactful memoirs. This year, she is excited to champion Loghan Paylor’s debut novel, “The Cure for Drowning,” at the upcoming Canada Reads debates.
Canada Reads is an event where five Canadian celebrities each advocate for a book they believe all Canadians should read. Over four days, they engage in debates and eliminate one book daily until a winner emerges. The 2026 Canada Reads event is scheduled from April 13 to 16.
In preparation for the competition, Quin shared the gateway books that introduced her to the works of some of her favorite authors. One significant childhood book for her was “Ramona Forever” by Beverly Cleary, which she discovered outside of school curriculum or her family’s library. The character of Ramona resonated with Quin, as she found similarities in their unconventional traits and behaviors.
Another influential book for Quin was Ann-Marie MacDonald’s “Fall On Your Knees,” which she encountered in high school. This novel, with its inclusion of queer themes, left a lasting impact on Quin, especially during a time when she was exploring her identity. Quin was enthralled by the storytelling and representation in MacDonald’s work.
During her high school years, Quin also delved into John Irving’s “A Prayer for Owen Meany,” a book that captivated her and led to her becoming a dedicated fan of Irving’s writing style. Despite not having a direct connection to the settings in Irving’s books, Quin found herself drawn to his consistent themes and character portrayals.
In her late 20s, Quin discovered Patricia Highsmith’s “The Price of Salt,” which inspired her to pursue storytelling in her music. The book’s impact on her personal experiences during that period influenced the creation of some of her music. Quin shared that this era of her life inspired her to express vulnerability and authenticity in her art.
Augusten Burroughs’ “Running with Scissors” played a pivotal role in Quin’s appreciation for memoirs, showing her the power of sharing personal stories on one’s terms. This realization encouraged Quin and her sister to collaborate on their joint memoir and other literary projects.
Lastly, author Ann Patchett’s work, particularly “The Patron Saint of Liars,” left a lasting impression on Quin when she first encountered it in her late teens. Patchett’s storytelling style and ability to create compelling narratives resonated with Quin, leading her to recommend Patchett’s books to others seeking engaging and accessible reads.