London-Area Author Loghan Paylor Makes Canada Reads Longlist
London-area author Loghan Paylor has earned a spot on the Canada Reads 2026 longlist. Their debut novel is The Cure for Drowning. This historical fiction centers on queer and nonbinary characters in 1930s-40s Canada. Paylor grew up north of London, Ontario. They now live in British Columbia. Paylor said they feel “absolutely stunned” by this honour.
About the Novel and Its Inspiration
The Cure for Drowning follows two main characters. Kit is a nonbinary farm kid. Rebekah is a doctor’s daughter. Their complex relationship unfolds during the Second World War. Paylor drew inspiration from two sources. First, a relative’s wartime poetry offered personal insight. Second, their own farm upbringing and love for folklore shaped the book’s setting and magic.
Centering Queer and Nonbinary Histories
Paylor emphasized the importance of portraying queer historical experiences. They noted Canada has a rich, often overlooked, queer history. Consequently, the author aims to foster empathy by imagining past queer lives and relationships.
The Canada Reads Process and What’s Next
The Canada Reads longlist comes before the final five-book debate. Celebrities will argue for the titles in April 2026. Currently, Paylor is writing their next novel. However, they admit it feels more pressured after this successful debut. Meanwhile, they continue teaching and connecting with readers nationwide.
A Promising Debut Recognized
Loghan Paylor’s longlist selection marks a major debut milestone. The Cure for Drowning brings vital representation to a national platform. As the Canada Reads competition continues, Paylor’s novel will reach wider audiences. Ultimately, it highlights the power of diverse storytelling in Canadian literature.
