January serves as a natural reset point for many, a time to refocus on health, finances, or spiritual well-being, even without formal resolutions. For those seeking guidance, a selection of recent books by Canadian authors offers valuable advice, inspiration, and practical motivation.
Finding Meaning and Spirit in the North
In "The Work of Our Hands: A Cree Meditation on the Real World", Juno-nominated musician Adrian Sutherland shares a gripping memoir. A member of the Attawapiskat First Nation on James Bay, Sutherland recounts a life-altering moment: waking to find polar bear tracks inside his house.
He interprets this visit, reminiscent of a similar spiritual encounter years earlier during a snowstorm, as a message. The book details his journey through profound loss, bullying, abuse, and poverty on a northern reserve. Sutherland writes candidly about finding his path through rehab and emerging as a community leader, husband, father, and grandfather, offering hard-won wisdom on living a meaningful life.
The Art of Living Well on Less
For those focusing on finances, Steve Burgess provides a uniquely Canadian perspective in "Cheapskate in Lotusland: The Philosophy and Practice of Living Well on a Small Budget". The Vancouver-based freelance writer embraces frugality to an extreme, sharing anecdotes like washing plastic wrap.
While not all his methods may be universally adopted, the book is packed with practical advice. Burgess delves into corporate marketing strategies, shares stories from fellow thrifty individuals, and offers serious tips on living within your means and navigating bulk retailers like Costco without falling into common spending traps.
Understanding Guilt and Financial Psychology
Two other Canadian authors explore the internal forces that shape our lives. Psychologist Chris Moore, in "The Power of Guilt: Why We Feel It and Its Surprising Power to Heal", reframes this difficult emotion. He argues that guilt, while unpleasant, is a useful signal that we may have wronged someone.
Instead of letting it fester, Moore encourages using guilt as a catalyst for reflection and making amends, potentially healing and strengthening relationships.
Financial educator Kelley Keehn addresses another internal driver in "Save Yourself: A New Approach to Thinking About Money and Taking Control of Your Financial Future". The author of "Talk Money to Me" examines how our emotional and psychological states—from unconsciously mimicking parents' money habits to stress-induced online shopping—impact financial decisions. Her book aims to help readers understand these influences and take concrete steps toward financial control.
Published in January 2026, these four distinct works by Canadian authors provide a toolkit for anyone looking to use the new year as a springboard for positive change, whether external or internal.
