This collection of 12 short stories landed on many “best books” lists of 2022, was shortlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize and won the 26^th Annual Danuta Gleed Literary Award. I listened to the first half of the book in audio form during a road trip, and its commentary on modern life sparked much debate among my passengers! The book spans the fringes of fantasy, horror and sci-fi to explore the evolving roles and expectations of human relationships, our increasing reliance on technology, and other creative, intriguing and even ridiculous implications of both. Fans of Netflix’s Black Mirror are sure to enjoy these tales, and since each story is a stand-alone instalment, it’s an easy read for busy book lovers to pick up and put down at their leisure.

Travel to the vast mountains of my homeland, Columbia, this holiday with Hector Abad’s The Farm. This compelling read, rich with themes of love, legacy and violence, immediately captivated me. I found myself deeply immersed in a world of intricate family relationships and history as I followed the narrative of three brothers and the family farm left in their possession. An essential read in Columbian literature, The Farm is a title you won’t want to miss!

Although the icy seas of Quebec’s remote islands might not be what you had in mind for “chilly weather” this season, Roxanne Bouchard’s Whisper of the Seals provides an excellent excuse to snuggle up near the fire. The award-winning author of The Corale Bride makes a powerful return with the third instalment in the Detective Morales series. Give the gift of suspense and thrill this year with this race-against-the-clock book that will constantly have you questioning how much you truly know and to whom you can entrust your secrets.

Embarking on a remarkable literary journey, Jamaluddin Aram unveiled his talents with the debut novel Nothing Good Happens in Wazirabad on Wednesday. From start to finish, I relished every page of the book, which offers charming insight into the lives of people living in Afghanistan. We can so easily forget that even in times of war and hardship, lives go on: people fall in love, families have fights and make up. Everyday life full of humanity, kindness and joy goes hand-in-hand with the troubles and hardships of life in times of conflict and war. This narrative starkly exposes how war – often thrust upon ordinary people – creates a profound disconnect between daily lives and the war machine operating around them. A great gift for those seeking to find comfort, peace and hope in unsuspected places.

Say goodbye to the winter blues with this hilarious and heartwarming title. With its bright, sunshine-yellow cover, you’re guaranteed to be transported to the warmth of summer days. Alongside experiencing its fun and frills, this book encouraged me to explore concepts of striking depth, like the issue of gentrification and the pressures that stem from family expectations discussed within the novel. This debut novel is a phenomenal choice for any of the bookish people in your life.

History fans are sure to love The Syrian Ladies Benevolent Society, a short story collection that traces the deep roots of the Arab immigrant experience in Canada since the 19^th century. Serving as an intriguing exploration of heritage and resilience, The Syrian Ladies Benevolent Society tells the stories of the women in one family as they try to find their place in Canadian society. The novel provided me with a newfound awareness of the often overlooked narratives of early Arab immigrants – Syrian and Lebanese – and the importance of honouring the integral role these communities played in Canada’s foundation for nearly two centuries.

Nothing says the holidays more than getting together with loved ones over comforting plates of food! But how much do we really understand about the culture and history embedded in every bite? This question takes centre stage in the hit anthology What We Talk About When We Talk About Dumplings, as it explores the origins of dumplings and the unique variations that tie each culture to this adored culinary delight. Including the diverse perspectives of food writers, journalists, culinary historians and even musicians, this book is an exciting read for any food enthusiast. A word of caution: consider pairing this book with a snack, as its delicious recipes and descriptions are sure to make you hungry!

If you are looking for a gentle read filled with humour, compassion and beautiful prose, Patrick deWitt’s latest novel is a must. The Librarianist explores the life of Bob Comet, a 71-year-old retired librarian who has lived a quiet life surrounded by and immersed in the world of books. While Bob seems like an ordinary and simple man from the outside, a volunteer opportunity at a senior’s centre cracks his life open, revealing the inner history he kept hidden away. A character-driven novel through and through, this book is another great read from the bestselling author of French Exit and The Sisters Brothers. Plus, this book was selected as part of TIFA’s 2024 Virtual Book Club Winter Season, so your giftee can connect with other book enthusiasts!

The very best picture books are those that can be enjoyed by any age, and this story by Toronto-based Vikki VanSickle and gorgeously illustrated by Miki Sato is one of those. Deceptively simple and yet beautifully poignant, this is a story of family, memories and what we pass on to each other, all explored as a little girl decorates her tree for the holidays. The decorating is the opposite of a carefully curated tree with matching colours and bobbles, and is instead a deeply personal mismatch of popcorn, ornaments (homemade and gifted), brightly coloured lights, and the memories and stories attached. The detail in the stunning paper-cut artwork adds a layer to the written words as we follow mischievous Taffy the cat who is determined to ‘help’ with the decorating! Perfect for ages 3+.

When Charles Dickens penned A Christmas Carol, the idea of sitting round the fire on a cold, winter night to hear a ghostly yarn was born. Switch off the TV and set aside devices and, instead, come together to share some spooky stories gathered by award-winning horror writer Joel A. Sutherland. This is volume 12 and who knew Canada had so many supernatural happenings? This latest collection includes a log cabin in Quebec haunted by a black cat, a disembodied sobbing at an old mill in Newfoundland and a spirit that plays pranks on unsuspecting guests at an inn in the Yukon. The creepy black-and-white illustrations and photographs add to the hauntingly eerie read. This will either inspire you to visit or avoid certain places as you plan your 2024 vacations. Perfect for ages 8+.