Famous Canadian Non-Fiction Writers

Jordan Bernt Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and media commentator known for his views on cultural and political issues. He holds two bachelor's degrees and a PhD in clinical psychology. Peterson taught at Harvard University before becoming a professor at the University of Toronto. He gained widespread attention for his critiques of legislation regarding gender identity and expression. Peterson is the author of several bestselling books, including "Maps of Meaning," "12 Rules for Life," and "Beyond Order." He has also embarked on a successful world tour and podcasting career.

Malcolm Gladwell is a Canadian journalist, author, and public speaker known for his work as a staff writer for The New Yorker since 1996. With seven published books and as the host of the podcast Revisionist History, Gladwell explores the unexpected implications of social science research, particularly in sociology and psychology. He co-founded the podcast company Pushkin Industries and has been recognized for his contributions through appointments such as being named to the Order of Canada in 2011.

Robin Sharma is a Canadian writer renowned for The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari book series. Initially a litigation lawyer, he transitioned to writing and self-published his first book, MegaLiving, focusing on stress management and spirituality. The success of this venture led him to self-publish The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari before it was later picked up by HarperCollins for wider distribution. Sharma has since authored 12 additional books and established the training company Sharma Leadership International, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in personal development and leadership.

Naomi Klein is a Canadian author, social activist, and filmmaker renowned for her political analyses and support of ecofeminism, organized labor, and criticism of corporate globalization, fascism, and capitalism. She holds the UBC Professorship in Climate Justice at the University of British Columbia and co-directs the Centre for Climate Justice. Klein gained international recognition with her books "No Logo" and "This Changes Everything," as well as her documentary "The Take." Her work on climate justice activism has earned her accolades, including the Sydney Peace Prize in 2016.

Mordecai Richler was a prominent Canadian writer known for his acclaimed novels such as The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz and Barney's Version. He received critical recognition with nominations for the Booker Prize for his works St. Urbain's Horseman and Solomon Gursky Was Here. Richler also made significant contributions to children's literature with the Jacob Two-Two series. Beyond fiction, he was an influential essayist, focusing on topics such as the Jewish community in Canada and Canadian nationalism. His collection of essays, Oh Canada! Oh Quebec!, sparked controversy for its exploration of nationalism and anti-Semitism.

John Philippe Rushton was a Canadian psychologist known for controversial research on race and intelligence. He faced heavy criticism for the quality and racist nature of his work, which was conducted under the umbrella of the Pioneer Fund, an organization promoting eugenics. Rushton's association with white supremacist groups and publications further tainted his reputation. Despite being a Fellow of respected associations, his legacy is marred by accusations of racism and scientific misconduct, with several of his research publications being retracted for ethical and methodological issues.

Robert Bourassa was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 22nd premier of Quebec from 1970 to 1976 and from 1985 to 1994. A member of the Liberal Party of Quebec, he held the position for just under 15 years. Bourassa's tenure was significant due to his handling of major events such as the October Crisis and his involvement in the Meech Lake and Charlottetown Accords. He played a key role in shaping Quebec's political landscape during his time in office.

Jeanne Sauvé was a Canadian politician and journalist who made history as the first and only female Speaker of the House (1980–1984) and the first female Governor General of Canada (1984–1990). She began her career as a journalist for the CBC before being elected to the House of Commons in 1972. She served as a minister of the Crown before becoming Speaker and later Governor General. Despite some controversy during her time as vicereine, Sauvé left a lasting legacy in Canadian politics and public service.

Harold Adams Innis was a Canadian professor of political economy at the University of Toronto, renowned for his seminal works on media, communication theory, and Canadian economic history. He developed the staples thesis, which emphasized the influence of staples like fur, fish, and lumber on Canada's culture and economy. Innis also explored the role of media in shaping civilizations, highlighting the importance of a balance between oral and written communication. He sought to establish a Canadian perspective in scholarship and defended universities as critical centers of thought.

Patrick Moore is a Canadian industry consultant and former activist who was an early member and past president of Greenpeace Canada. Since leaving Greenpeace in 1986, Moore has criticized the environmental movement for what he perceives as scare tactics and disinformation. He has taken public stances against major environmental groups on issues such as forestry, nuclear energy, genetically modified organisms, and pesticide use. Moore has also denied the scientific consensus on climate change, arguing that increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is beneficial and disputing the link between anthropogenic emissions and global warming.

Ernest Thompson Seton was a prominent Canadian-American author, wildlife artist, and founder of the Woodcraft Indians, later renamed the Woodcraft League of America. He was a key figure in the founding of the Boy Scouts of America and greatly influenced Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouting movement. Seton's writings on Scouting were widely published and his books, including The Birch Bark Roll and the Boy Scout Handbook, became influential within the organization. He incorporated what he believed to be American Indian elements into the traditions of the BSA.

Irshad Manji is a Canadian educator, author, and former journalist known for her advocacy of a reformist interpretation of Islam and criticism of literalist interpretations of the Qur'an. She has authored books like The Trouble with Islam Today and Allah, Liberty and Love, which have been banned in some Muslim countries. Manji has also produced a PBS documentary, Faith Without Fear, and founded the Moral Courage Project to address political, racial, and cultural divides through honest engagement. She lectures on these topics as a senior research fellow at the Oxford Initiative for Global Ethics and Human Rights.

Robert Lorne Hunter was a prominent Canadian environmentalist, journalist, author, and politician. He played a pivotal role in environmental activism as a member of the Don't Make a Wave Committee and co-founder of Greenpeace. Hunter led groundbreaking anti-whaling campaigns, contributing to the eventual ban on commercial whaling. He also campaigned against nuclear testing, the Canadian seal hunt, and climate change, showcasing his dedication to environmental causes. His book, Thermageddon: Countdown to 2030, further solidified his legacy as a leading figure in environmental advocacy, earning him recognition as one of the "Eco-Heroes" of the 20th century by Time magazine.

Hugh MacLennan was a distinguished Canadian writer and English professor at McGill University. Throughout his career, he achieved significant recognition, winning five Governor General's Awards and a Royal Bank Award for his literary contributions. MacLennan's impact on Canadian literature was profound, as he produced notable works that reflected the complexities of Canadian identity and society. As a respected academic, he not only inspired numerous students but also left a lasting legacy in the literary world through his compelling writing and insightful teachings.

Brad Goreski is a prominent Canadian-American celebrity fashion stylist and television personality. He gained recognition as a co-host on Fashion Police in 2015 and later became a regular judge on Canada's Drag Race starting in 2021. With his keen eye for style and fashion expertise, Goreski has made a significant impact in the fashion industry. His career has been marked by successful collaborations, high-profile appearances, and a strong presence in the world of entertainment and fashion.

Farley Mowat was a renowned Canadian writer and environmentalist known for his works translated into 52 languages and selling over 17 million books. He gained fame for his books on the Canadian north, particularly People of the Deer and Never Cry Wolf. Mowat's advocacy for environmental causes earned him praise, but his admission about facts and truth brought criticism. Despite this, he was recognized for his commitment to ideals, poetic descriptions, vivid images, and strong antipathies that sometimes led to ridicule and condemnation.

Peter John Gzowski, also known as "Mr. Canada" or "Captain Canada," was a prominent Canadian broadcaster, writer, and reporter. He gained widespread recognition for his work on CBC radio shows such as This Country in the Morning and Morningside. Gzowski's professional endeavors extended to writing books, hosting television programs, and contributing to various newspapers and Maclean's magazine. He was admired for his friendly and warm interviewing style, which endeared him to audiences and solidified his legacy as a key figure in Canadian media.

Pierre Vallières was a prominent Québécois journalist and writer who played a key role as an intellectual leader of the Front de libération du Québec (FLQ). He is best known for his influential essay "Nègres blancs d'Amérique," translated as "White Niggers of America," in which he drew parallels between the struggles of French-Canadians and African-Americans. Vallières' work sparked important discussions about identity, discrimination, and social justice in Quebec and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on the intellectual and political landscape of the time.

Mary MacLane was a controversial and popular author known for her frank memoirs which helped popularize the confessional style of autobiographical writing. She gained notoriety for her shocking bestselling first memoir and subsequent books, cultivating a reputation as the "Wild Woman of Butte." MacLane openly embraced her bisexuality and feminist beliefs, drawing comparisons to fellow memoirist Marie Bashkirtseff. H.L. Mencken dubbed her "the Butte Bashkirtseff," highlighting her rebellious and unapologetic nature in the literary world.

Lewis MacKenzie is a Canadian retired major general, author, and media commentator known for his significant role in international peacekeeping efforts. He established and commanded Sector Sarajevo for the United Nations Protection Force in the former Yugoslavia. MacKenzie faced criticism for his involvement in the Somalia Affair and Canada's peacekeeping challenges in Bosnia. He later became a prominent critic of NATO's participation in the Kosovo War. Throughout his career, MacKenzie has been recognized for his leadership and contributions to global peacekeeping initiatives.

Donald Arthur Carson is a Canadian evangelical theologian known for his significant contributions to New Testament scholarship. Serving as a Distinguished Emeritus Professor at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, he is also the president and co-founder of the Gospel Coalition. With a prolific career, Carson has authored or edited over sixty books and held the prestigious position of president of the Evangelical Theological Society. His work spans various subjects, including New Testament studies, hermeneutics, biblical theology, Greek New Testament, and the interplay between the Old and New Testaments.

Mariko Tamaki is a Canadian artist and writer renowned for her diverse body of work spanning graphic novels and prose fiction. She has gained recognition for graphic novels like Skim, Emiko Superstar, and This One Summer, showcasing her storytelling prowess. In 2016, she expanded her reach by writing for major comic publishers Marvel and DC Comics. Tamaki's talent has been acknowledged with two runner-up honors for the prestigious Michael L. Printz Award, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the world of comics and literature.

Linden Joseph MacIntyre is a prominent Canadian journalist, broadcaster, and award-winning novelist. Renowned for his work on CBC's The Fifth Estate, he has received numerous accolades, including ten Gemini Awards and an International Emmy for his writing and journalistic excellence. In 2009, he was honored with the prestigious Scotiabank Giller Prize for his novel, The Bishop's Man. After a distinguished career, he retired from The Fifth Estate in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of impactful storytelling on various topics, such as police ethics and interrogation tactics.

Christie Marie Blatchford was a prominent Canadian newspaper columnist, journalist, and broadcaster with a career spanning 48 years. She made significant contributions as Canada's first female sports columnist, worked for all four Toronto-based newspapers, and won the prestigious National Newspaper Award for column writing in 1999. Blatchford was recognized for her exceptional work by being inducted into the Canadian News Hall of Fame in 2019. Her book "Fifteen Days" also received critical acclaim, winning the 2008 Governor General's Literary Award in Non-fiction.

Matt Cohen was a versatile Canadian writer known for his contributions to both mainstream and children's literature. He published works under his own name as well as the pseudonym Teddy Jam. His professional life was marked by creativity and imagination, evident in his diverse body of work. Cohen's writing style appealed to a wide audience, showcasing his skill and versatility as an author. Through his writings, he left a lasting impact on the literary world, earning recognition for his talent and dedication.

Nancy Louise Huston, OC is a Canadian novelist and essayist known for her work in both French and English. She is a longtime resident of France and is acclaimed for her ability to translate her own works between the two languages. Huston's literary career has spanned multiple genres, showcasing her versatility and skill as a writer. Her unique perspective and insightful storytelling have garnered international recognition, making her a prominent figure in the literary world.

Georges Anglade was a prominent figure in the fields of geography, academia, writing, and politics. As a geographer, he made significant contributions to the understanding of geographical issues, particularly in relation to Haiti and Canada. Anglade's work as a professor influenced many students, and his writing showcased his expertise in various subjects. Additionally, his involvement in politics further demonstrated his commitment to making a positive impact in society. Overall, Georges Anglade's professional life was marked by his dedication to education, research, and public service.

A.J.M. Smith was a renowned Canadian poet and anthologist known for his contributions to modernism in poetry. He was a key figure in the Montreal Group of poets, which challenged the prevailing Victorian literary traditions in Canada. Smith's work was characterized by its innovative and experimental approach, marking him as a leading voice in the shift towards modernist poetry in Canadian literature. His influence extended beyond his own writings, as he played a significant role in shaping the literary landscape of his time.

Ken Dryden is a versatile Canadian figure known for his contributions in various fields. He gained fame as a professional ice hockey goaltender and is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. Dryden also had a successful political career, serving as a Liberal Member of Parliament and Minister of Social Development. He is recognized as one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in history and has received prestigious honors such as the Order of Canada and the Order of Hockey in Canada. Dryden is also a successful lawyer, businessman, and author.

Pierre Bourgault was a prominent figure in Quebec, Canada, known for his multifaceted career as a politician, essayist, actor, and journalist. He gained widespread recognition as a powerful public speaker and a staunch advocate for Quebec sovereignty. Bourgault's professional endeavors were marked by his dedication to promoting the interests of Quebec and advocating for greater autonomy from Canada. His impactful speeches and writings left a lasting legacy in the realms of politics, literature, and journalism, solidifying his place as a key figure in Quebec's history.

Frederick Philip Grove was a prominent German-born Canadian novelist and translator known for his prolific work in both Germany and Canada. He established himself as a skilled translator under the name Felix Paul Greve before relocating to North America. Settling in Manitoba in 1912, he gained recognition as a fiction writer focusing on Western prairie pioneer life and multicultural communities. Grove's professional life was marked by his exploration of intricate narratives blending fact and fiction, culminating in his legacy as a renowned Canadian writer until his passing in 1948.

M. G. Vassanji is a prominent Canadian novelist and editor known for his insightful exploration of themes such as colonial history, migration, diaspora, citizenship, gender, and ethnicity. With a career spanning multiple decades, Vassanji has produced a diverse body of work consisting of nine novels, two short-fiction collections, and two nonfiction books. His writings have garnered significant critical acclaim and have been translated into various languages, showcasing his expertise and deep understanding of complex societal issues through the lens of fiction and nonfiction narratives.

Grenville Kleiser was a prominent North American author known for his inspirational books and guides on oratorical success and personal development. He also served as an instructor in Public Speaking at Yale Divinity School, Yale University. Kleiser's professional career was marked by his dedication to helping individuals improve their communication skills and achieve personal growth through his writings and teachings. His impact on the field of public speaking and personal development continues to be felt long after his passing.

Philippe-Joseph Aubert de Gaspé led a distinguished professional life as a Canadian lawyer, writer, and seigneur. He gained recognition primarily for his novel Les Anciens Canadiens, a groundbreaking work that is regarded as the inaugural classic of French Canadian fiction. Through his legal expertise, literary contributions, and role as a seigneur, Aubert de Gaspé made significant cultural and literary contributions to Canadian society, leaving a lasting impact on the development of French Canadian literature and identity.

Germaine Guèvremont was a Canadian writer who played a significant role in Quebec literature. She started her career as a journalist for women's magazines before transitioning to becoming a writer and editor for newspapers. Guèvremont later worked as a court stenographer during the Great Depression. She gained recognition for her novels "Le Survenant" and "Marie-Didace," which were awarded the fiction prize at the 1950 Governor General's Awards. Guèvremont continued to publish short stories, journalism, and adaptations of her works for radio and television.

Bill Mason was a multi-talented Canadian naturalist, author, artist, filmmaker, and conservationist. He gained recognition for his popular canoeing books, films, and art, as well as his documentaries on wolves. Graduating from the University of Manitoba School of Art, Mason was known for his expertise in canoeing strokes and river-running techniques, particularly in challenging whitewater conditions. His legacy as a "wilderness artist" encompasses a body of work that includes influential books, films, and artwork focused on canoeing and nature.

Charles Burchill Lynch was a prominent Canadian journalist and author known for his contributions to the field. Throughout his career, Lynch made a significant impact through his insightful reporting and engaging writing style. He gained recognition for his work in the media industry, where he exhibited a deep passion for storytelling and a commitment to journalistic integrity. Lynch's professional life was characterized by his dedication to informing and educating the public, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of Canadian journalism.

Max Braithwaite was a prolific Canadian novelist and non-fiction author known for his humorous and engaging writing style. He gained recognition for his work when he won the Stephen Leacock Memorial Medal for Humour in 1972 for his book "The Night We Stole the Mountie's Car." Additionally, his 1965 novel "Why Shoot the Teacher?" was adapted into a Canadian film in 1977. Braithwaite's contributions to Canadian literature solidified his reputation as a talented and influential writer in the literary world.

Marie-Christine Lévesque was a talented Canadian art director, author, and editor who made significant contributions to the world of art and literature. She was recognized for her exceptional cover design work, winning the prestigious 2005 Applied Arts Award. Collaborating with her partner, Serge Bouchard, she co-authored several books delving into the histories and cultures of various North American peoples, including the Innu people. Through her writings, she shed light on the lives and experiences of individuals spanning from the 16th to the 19th century.

Daniel Robert Woolf FRHistS FSA FRSC is a British-Canadian historian and former university administrator. He served as the 20th Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada from 2009 to 2019. Prior to this role, he was a professor of history and the Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Alberta. Woolf was reappointed for a second term in 2013 but announced his retirement from university administration at the end of his second term in 2019, succeeded by Patrick Deane.

Constance Lindsay Skinner was a prominent Canadian writer, critic, historian, and editor known for her significant contributions to literature. She is best recognized for her pivotal role in conceptualizing the Rivers of America Series for the publisher Farrar & Rinehart. Throughout her career, Skinner demonstrated a keen eye for historical detail and a deep understanding of American culture and heritage. Her work as an editor and critic further solidified her reputation as a respected figure in the literary and historical community.

Nathan Divinsky was a prominent Canadian mathematician, university professor, chess master, chess writer, and chess official. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and chess. Divinsky's expertise and passion for chess led him to become a respected figure in the international chess community. As a university professor, he shared his knowledge with countless students, inspiring them to pursue their academic interests. His work in both mathematics and chess left a lasting impact on the respective fields.

Frank Wolf is a renowned Canadian adventurer, writer, filmmaker, and environmentalist known for his work documenting wilderness expeditions worldwide, with a particular focus on the Canadian North. He has achieved significant feats such as being the first to canoe across Canada in a single season and cycling 2,000 km in winter on the Yukon River. Wolf has authored books and articles, including "Lines on a Map," and produced films like "Wild Ones" and "The Hand of Franklin" that have been featured on CBC's Documentary Channel in Canada. He has been recognized as one of Canada's Top Ten Adventurers by Explore and as one of Canada's Greatest 90 Explorers of All Time by Canadian Geographic.

Mohamed Abdulkarim Ali is a Somali-Canadian writer known for his memoir, Angry Queer Somali Boy. He wrote the book while residing in a homeless shelter in Toronto, showcasing his resilience and determination in pursuing his passion for writing. Ali's work has been recognized by reputable sources such as the CBC and The Advocate, who have highlighted the importance of his book in discussions on mental health and LGBTQ experiences. His writing has earned a place on recommended reading lists, solidifying his impact on literary circles.