Why Canadian Books Are Important

In this time of tariffs, Canadian books are more important than ever. Here are five reasons why.

Support Canadian economy

Independent Canadian publishers, like Common Deer Press, employ many people. And beyond direct employees, many Common Deer Press partners are based in Canada. Who can be a publisher’s partner? Distributors, sales teams, foreign rights agents, printers, book designers, editors, illustrators and authors (who you might think are publisher’s employees but they are actually freelance contractors). When you buy Canadian books (or request that your library acquire them), you're supporting all these people!

Support Canadian culture

Books created by Canadian authors, illustrators, and publishers present the Canadian culture in a unique way. From spelling (colour vs color) to settings (downtown Toronto) to character traits (wearing a toque in summer). Not to mention books set during Canadian historic events. Canadian-culture books reflect Canadian values.

Diverse Voices

From Acadian to francophone to anglophone to Indigenous to under represented voices, Canadian books showcase the strength of our diversity.

Canadian Programs

Many publishers and book creators qualify for Canadian programs like literacy awards (Forest of Reading, Governor General’s Award), grants (Canada Council for the Arts), and more. Buying Canadian books supports the need and use for these programs.

Role Modeling

Young Canadian readers don’t have to look to our neighbours to the south for role models in publishing or book creation. There are publishing experts right here and right now. Readers don’t need to think they need to go to New York or LA in order to get a book deal. From post-secondary education in publishing to groups like The Writers Union of Canada to creating a working relationship with a Canadian publisher…it can all happen right here and right now. 

Common Deer Press is a proudly Canadian publisher of uncommon books for kids and teens.