Canadian poetry has become a powerful medium for exploring themes of identity, nature, love, and social justice. The country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage offer a unique perspective, making Canadian poetry a compelling genre for readers around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned poetry lover or new to the genre, this top 10 list will introduce you to the very best Canadian poetry books available today.
Author: Sarah McLaren
Sarah McLaren is a literary critic and poet based in Toronto, with a passion for Canadian literature. She enjoys sharing her deep love for poetry with readers seeking meaningful and reflective works.
Why Canadian Poetry Matters
The world of Canadian poetry is filled with works that speak to both the beauty and the challenges of life in Canada. With influences ranging from Indigenous traditions to modern-day multiculturalism, these poets offer profound reflections on love, identity, and the environment. Whether you’re interested in historical narratives or contemporary voices, this list will guide you through the best of what Canadian poetry has to offer.
10. Book of Longing
Author: Leonard Cohen
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7 out of 5 stars, 894 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
Leonard Cohen’s Book of Longing is a collection of his poetry and drawings that captures the essence of his meditations on life, spirituality, and relationships. This work is a testament to Cohen’s lasting influence in both music and poetry.
Why You’ll Love It: Cohen’s iconic voice resonates deeply through these poems, which blend the mystical with the everyday, making it a powerful read.
Fun Fact: Book of Longing was Cohen’s first book of poetry after several decades and was written during his retreat at a Zen Buddhist monastery.
9. To the Man I Loved Too Much: And the Ones Who Never Loved Me Enough
Author: Gabrielle G.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 out of 5 stars, 1,772 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
Gabrielle G.’s To the Man I Loved Too Much offers readers an intimate look into the raw emotions of unrequited love, heartbreak, and personal growth. Her writing is deeply personal yet universally relatable.
Why You’ll Love It: The vulnerability and passion in Gabrielle G.’s work make it a perfect companion for anyone who has experienced intense love and loss.
Fun Fact: Gabrielle G. originally gained fame by sharing her poetry on social media, where her relatable words struck a chord with readers worldwide.
👉 Buy To the Man I Loved Too Much here!
8. There Is Room for All of You Here
Author: Michaela Angemeer
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4 out of 5 stars, 563 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
Michaela Angemeer’s There Is Room for All of You Here is a beautiful meditation on belonging and acceptance. Her poetry is gentle, comforting, and filled with messages of self-love.
Why You’ll Love It: This book provides a much-needed reminder that there is space for everyone in the world, and it’s perfect for readers who seek solace in poetry.
Fun Fact: Angemeer is known for writing poetry that resonates with younger audiences, making her a popular choice on social media platforms like Instagram.
👉 Get There Is Room for All of You Here here!
7. Poems for the Signs
Author: Michaela Angemeer
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4 out of 5 stars, 898 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
Poems for the Signs by Michaela Angemeer explores the connection between astrology and the human experience. Each poem in this collection is inspired by a zodiac sign, creating a unique poetic journey.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re into astrology or simply enjoy personalized poetry, this collection offers something special for every reader.
Fun Fact: Angemeer connects each zodiac sign with themes of love, heartbreak, and healing, making this a fun read for anyone curious about astrology.
👉 Purchase Poems for the Signs here!
6. Autobiography of Red
Author: Anne Carson
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 784 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
Anne Carson’s Autobiography of Red is an extraordinary blend of poetry and prose. It retells the ancient Greek myth of Geryon, transforming it into a modern love story that is both poignant and imaginative.
Why You’ll Love It: Carson’s unique style and narrative approach make this a standout work in Canadian literature, pushing the boundaries of traditional poetry.
Fun Fact: Anne Carson is often considered one of Canada’s most innovative poets, with Autobiography of Red being one of her most beloved works.
👉 Get Autobiography of Red here!
5. Paper Boat: New and Selected Poems: 1961-2023
Author: Margaret Atwood
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0 out of 5 stars, 3 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
Margaret Atwood’s Paper Boat is a collection that spans decades of her poetry, offering readers both new and selected works. It highlights her mastery of language and her ability to address a wide range of topics, from environmentalism to human relationships.
Why You’ll Love It: Atwood’s ability to convey deep emotions through simple yet powerful language makes this collection a must-read for any poetry lover.
Fun Fact: Margaret Atwood is a household name in Canadian literature, known for her novels like The Handmaid’s Tale, but her poetry is equally profound and influential.
4. You’ll Come Back to Yourself
Author: Michaela Angemeer
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 7,557 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
You’ll Come Back to Yourself is a collection of poetry by Michaela Angemeer that deals with heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery. Its honest portrayal of emotional recovery makes it a favorite among young readers.
Why You’ll Love It: Angemeer’s writing speaks directly to those going through heartbreak, offering comfort and hope for brighter days ahead.
Fun Fact: This book became a viral sensation on social media, with many readers sharing Angemeer’s deeply relatable lines.
👉 Buy You’ll Come Back to Yourself here!
3. Rupi Kaur Trilogy Boxed Set
Author: Rupi Kaur
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7 out of 5 stars, 120 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
Rupi Kaur’s Trilogy Boxed Set includes her three bestselling books: Milk and Honey, The Sun and Her Flowers, and Home Body. This collection is essential for anyone looking to explore contemporary Canadian poetry.
Why You’ll Love It: Kaur’s raw and emotional writing has touched the hearts of millions, making her one of Canada’s most popular poets.
Fun Fact: Rupi Kaur’s work is often credited with reviving interest in poetry for a new generation, thanks to her modern approach and powerful themes of feminism and healing.
👉 Purchase Rupi Kaur Trilogy Boxed Set here!
2. Inherited Hunger
Author: Rose Brik
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 15 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
Inherited Hunger is a raw exploration of generational trauma, loss, and resilience by Rose Brik. Through vivid imagery and powerful language, Brik creates an unforgettable collection that resonates with readers.
Why You’ll Love It: Brik’s poetic voice offers a rare blend of vulnerability and strength, making this a deeply emotional and captivating read.
Fun Fact: Brik’s work has been lauded for its ability to tackle difficult subjects with grace and honesty, making her a rising star in Canadian poetry.
👉 Order Inherited Hunger here!
1. My Father’s Eyes, My Mother’s Rage
Author: Rose Brik
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7 out of 5 stars, 1,890 ratings)
Category: Canadian Poetry
My Father’s Eyes, My Mother’s Rage is a deeply personal collection of poetry that explores family dynamics, identity, and the complexities of love. Rose Brik’s powerful storytelling captivates readers from the first page.
Why You’ll Love It: The raw emotion and honesty in Brik’s writing make this a standout collection in modern Canadian poetry.
Fun Fact: Brik has drawn on her own life experiences to create a collection that speaks to the heart of what it means to be human.
👉 Buy My Father’s Eyes, My Mother’s Rage here!
Check out some more Top10 categories here
“As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”