Helen Knott’s Becoming a Matriarch makes CBC Canada Reads 2025 Longlist

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. —  Fort St. John-based author Helen Knott’s book Becoming a Matriarch has been named to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s (CBC) Canada Reads longlist for 2025.

Described as a “battle of the books” put on by the nation’s public broadcaster, five panelists are selected to champion a book and why they feel it is critical for Canada to read.  

The competition has been held annually since 2002.

She tells Energeticcity.ca that she is “honoured” to have been nominated, although she does feel a tad bit nervous.

“I feel like no matter who you are, whenever your works are put into a realm of discussion, it can make you feel a little queasy,” said Knott.

Inspired by the losses of her grandmother and mother, the memoir has been described as evocative, concise and lyrical.

The announcement of the longlist comes just 24 hours after Knott was named to the jury for CBC’s Nonfiction award.

“They asked, and I said yes,” said Knott. “Being on a jury is giving back to the literary community with your time and ability to read people’s submissions.”

“It’s also a blessing to read their work.  So, I am looking forward to it.”

Although unfamiliar with fellow judge Zoe Whittall, she has corresponded with Danny Ramadan, a 2SLGBTQ+ Syrian-born writer in Vancouver, whom she describes as an “Instagram buddy.”

The shortlist and panelists for the 2025 CBC Canada Reads competition will be announced on January 23rd. 

Visit CBC’s Canada Reads website for more information.