Oxford Reads announces 2026 selection: How to Survive a Bear Attack by Claire Cameron
Community-wide book club invites readers to explore a compelling memoir about survival, loss and the natural world
Oxford County Library and Woodstock Public Library are proud to announce that How to Survive a Bear Attack by Canadian author Claire Cameron has been selected as the 2026 Oxford Reads title following a community-wide vote.
In this award-winning memoir, Cameron examines a fatal bear attack that occurred in Algonquin Park in 1991 while also reflecting on her own experiences with illness, motherhood, fear and survival. Blending investigative journalism, memoir and nature writing, the book explores how people make sense of tragedy and our relationship with the natural world.
Residents across Oxford County are invited to borrow a copy of the book and join the community-wide book club. Print, e-book and audiobook copies are available through the Oxford County Library and the Woodstock Public Library, and book club sets can be borrowed through Oxford County Library for group discussions.
Now in its ninth year, Oxford Reads continues to connect readers across the County, encouraging dialogue and celebrating Canadian literature. Additional programming will be announced in September, including details for the Oxford Reads Gala this fall.
For more information, visit www.oxfordreads.ca.
Comment
Sarah Adam, System Support Librarian, Oxford County
“We’re excited to invite readers across Oxford County to discover Claire Cameron’s remarkable book together. How to Survive a Bear Attack is a thought-provoking and deeply human story that explores our relationship with nature, fear, loss and survival. We look forward to the conversations it will inspire across our communities.”
Gillian Green, Public Services Supervisor, Woodstock Public Library
“We’re excited to share How to Survive a Bear Attack as the Oxford Reads 2026 title. It’s a gripping, heartfelt story, and Claire Cameron brings the wilderness to life in a way that’s sure to engage our community in great conversations and inspire a deeper sense of connection.”