Joan Thomas is a Canadian novelist and literary journalist who has established herself as a significant voice in contemporary Canadian literature. Her work spans both fiction and literary criticism, with notable contributions as a book reviewer for major Canadian publications including The Globe and Mail and the Winnipeg Free Press. Thomas began her career as a freelance journalist and book reviewer, earning recognition with a National Magazine Award in 1996. Her transition to fiction writing was marked by immediate success with her debut novel “Reading by Lightning,” which claimed both the 2009 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best First Book and the Amazon.ca First Novel Award.
Joan Thomas is a Canadian novelist and literary journalist who has established herself as a significant voice in contemporary Canadian literature. Her work spans both fiction and literary criticism, with notable contributions as a book reviewer for major Canadian publications including The Globe and Mail and the Winnipeg Free Press. Thomas began her career as a freelance journalist and book reviewer, earning recognition with a National Magazine Award in 1996. Her transition to fiction writing was marked by immediate success with her debut novel “Reading by Lightning,” which claimed both the 2009 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best First Book and the Amazon.ca First Novel Award.
Q&A Session with 2026 Dublin Literary Award shortlisted author Brigitte Giraud, author of Live Fast, exploring the inspirations behind her novel.
VideoMay 12 2026
Laurent Binet – Perspective(s) Q&A
Check out our Q&A with Laurent Binet, author of shortlisted title Perspective(s), as he discusses the inspirations behind his work and reflects on the role libraries have played in shaping his journey
VideoMay 8 2026
Ali Smith – Gliff Q&A
Shortlisted author Ali Smith discusses the creative inspirations behind Gliff and reflects on the significance of libraries throughout her reading and writing life in our latest Q&A.
