Sorry, Not Sorry: An Unapologetic Look at What Makes Canada Worth Fighting For

by Mark Critch

Known for his sharp-witted skits on CBC’s This Hour Has 22 Minutes , Mark Critch uses his keen observational skills to explore the complexities of Canadian identity and the new wave of Canadian patriotism.

In Sorry, Not Sorry, Critch delves into the heart of what it means to be Canadian at a time when national pride is on the rise. Examining everything from the historical decision of Newfoundland to join Canada, to the modern-day implications of the Freedom Convoy, and the evolving symbolism of the Canadian flag, he reminds us of where we came from, and of the many reasons Canada is worth fighting for—elbows up!

In chapters like “The 51st State,” “I Want My Flag Back,” and “The Invasion,” Critch uses humour and satire to tackle serious questions about national identity, unity, and the future of Canada. He also offers a unique perspective on the country's relationship with the monarchy, the cultural impact of Canadian celebrities living abroad, and the hypothetical scenarios of provincial separations.

Sorry, Not Sorry is more than just a comedic take on Canadian life; it’s a deeply personal and insightful look at thefree country Critch has spent decades satirizing. Whether he’s writing as a war correspondent in a fictional American invasion or penning a love letter to Canada in the voice of Donald Trump, Critch’s essays are sure to entertain, provoke thought, and stir a sense of pride in listeners.

Genres: Nonfiction, Canada, History, Humor, Audiobook, Essays

232 pages, Hardcover

Published November 25, 2025

About the author

Mark Critch is one of the most recognizable faces in Canadian comedy and has won multiple awards for both writing and performance. For fourteen years, he has starred on CBC's flagship show, This Hour Has 22 Minutes. As an anchor and "roving reporter," he has brought celebrities and politicians to Canadian living rooms across the nation. He is the host of CBC's Halifax Comedy Festival and has written for and appeared in CBC's world-renowned Just for Laughs series.

Reviews

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part history, part cultural critique and celebration and part rallying cry to stand up for what makes Canada great and fight against threats from Trump's administration to make Canada the 51st state. I really enjoyed this book!! It was FUNNY, insightful and just a quick entertaining read that was also good on audio narrated by the author himself. Highly recommended, especially for fans of the Elbows up anthology. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Kimberley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, the laughs I laughed while listening to this gem. I loved this book so much!! As a Canadian living in the US, this hit so many current cultural notes. I always tell everyone I meet that if there’s one thing Canadians can all agree on, it’s that we’re not Americans. This book was a hilarious skewering of the stereotype that Canadians are all polite and apologetic. Another thing I always say- we have 100 meanings to the phrase “I’m sorry” and 0 of them actually mean we’re sorry. So, it was a rude awakening for Americans to find out that Trump’s threats against Canada would galvanize the country.

I liked that the author tied the historical context of Newfoundland joining Canada in 1949 as not dissimilar to the current day threats of American designs on Canada. Having just visited Newfoundland for the first time this past spring, I also loved all the tongue in cheek jokes about the history of the east.

I appreciated the chapter on the appropriation of the Canadian flag during pandemic times by the same manner of difficult people who have commandeered the American flag on the other side of the border. I love that recent American aggression has allowed all Canadians to embrace the flag as their own again!

I loved the chapter on Can-Con TV, especially the section on children’s television. I grew up on 1970s shows like Mr Dressup and laughed so much at the witty commentary. So much truth! And now I’m singing “The Littlest Hobo” song in my head!!

I would like to 🤌 the commentary about Kevin O’Leary, Bobbie Orr & Wayne Gretzky. What an embarrassment for us all.

PS- Jesus was an Anchor Baby and Santa’s woke! 😂 🎅

[Steph · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a mix of Canadian Pop culture, history, and humorous essays, the latter of which are similar to skits seen on 'This Hour Has 22 Minutes.' My favourite parts were the parts that touched on Canadian history. It's not a deep dive, but it was interesting to think about Canadian history in the context of what's happening with Canada & America and the Canadian identity.

Like the author, I'm from Newfoundland, and my grandparents were British/Newfoundlanders well before they were Canadian. Critch discusses this in the book, pointing out that older Newfoundlanders already know what it was like to be part of one country and having joined another, which was an interesting perspective to think about with current events.

My least favourite parts were the fictional chapters written from the POV of Americans who wish my country harm. It didn't help that I was listening to the audiobook, and Critch does a bang-on impression, which made my skin crawl. I think in this case, I might recommend the print version over the audiobook for that reason.

[Allison ༻hikes the bookwoods༺ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sorry Not Sorry is exactly what you hope for when Mark Critch writes a book about what makes Canada Canada. He hops from cultural quirks to political oddities to personal memories with the ease of someone who’s spent a lifetime watching this country with affection and exasperation in equal measure. And honestly, laughing along with him feels like the most reasonable coping mechanism for the current geopolitical climate.

[Lindsay B · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

[Colin McKague · Rating 1 out of 5]

There isn't much here about the positive highlights that make Canada great. But there is a heck of a lot of complaining about the people that don't fit Mark's mold. I get the sense that he watched the CTV news headlines for the last five years and wrote a book about what he saw, sprinkled with some personal experience and the odd bit of useful insight. The last thing you need to read is another political rant that further drives the wedge between left and right. Note this book has little to no policy discussion thankfully, just complaining. Just skip this one, I'm sure Mark's other non-politic books are much more interesting.

[CyGrrl · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a timely editorial on Canada identity filtered through Critch's perspective as a fierce Canadian from Newfoundland. Using humour and satire to engage readers, Sorry, Not Sorry is a passion project; a collection of musings on Canadian identity prompted during the threat of U.S. relations under Trump, preparing to claim Canada as its 51st state. Critch explains his patriotism, stories about the elusive Canadian identity and satirical pokes at Canadian traitors, in addition to other relatable Canadian-isms.
Recommend for fans of Mark Critch, Canadiana, politics, history, humour and biography. There is definitely a political slant to this book which won't appeal to more rightwing readers.

[Kelly Bellware · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, where is the cover art of this book? This is NOT what it looks like. Loved it. Another great one by Mr. Critch. Someone told me recently they they had heard that this should be required reading for every Canadian fifth-grader. I’m inclined to agree. And, it’s also hilarious.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Charlotte Courage · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been reading a lot of NL lit as of late and always love listening to these treats from home. I especially loved the first chapter of this one. Do yourself the favour and do it as an audiobook.

[Suzanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laugh-out-loud funny. Listen to the audiobook.

[Shana · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is only for those suffering from TDS and are the ones that would (and did) vote in a failure of a party for a 4th term that will spiral Canada in to becoming the 3rd world or leaving it with no choice but to become the 51st state because we will be in such dire straits. Destroying your own country because of your psychosis over the president of another country is not the smart thing to do but here we are.

This book was not funny and offered little to no depth or any interesting insights about our country.

Absolute drivel. It is almost embarrassing to be Canadian at this point with how much we obsess over "not being like the US" when we do nothing and continually make decisions and vote in people who destroy our economy, destroy our quality of life, want us to be a post-national state (so no CANADIAN identity), bring in hoards of people yearly that do not assimilate to Canadian culture or way of life and do absolutely nothing to make our own country great. I mean our own Prime Minister does not even live in Canada and has not lived in Canada since high school and half of the nation somehow thought he would do things to improve us - no, he will only improve his pocketbook and do things to benefit Brookfield. He also bailed out Trump's son0in-law so don't believe that this theatre they put on isn't to get you all to vote in a Liberal majority next election because they know our nation is so low-functioning that once again they will vote only because Orange Man Bad.

Until we got over this idiotic mindset, we will not be a thriving country.

[Katie Skyers · Rating 3 out of 5]

"They got invisible ice!"

A brief and often silly, but honest reflection on Canada's history and its current relationship with our southern neighbours, the United States.

The history and current events should be familiar to most Canadians, so don't go in expecting an education. That's not really why you pick up a book by someone like Critch though.

You can expect his usual humour. He had me chuckling at several points. Particularly, Canadian Club guy. He reads the audiobook himself, so you get all of his characters and impressions voiced with his style.

The descriptions of Newfoundlanders and east coast nostalgia are on point, of course. For me, this meant the familiar cringing through some Quebec mockery. All fairly tame, but also typical of people from my childhood in Newfoundland.

There's an overall stream of consciousness to the way this is told that I think is good. It's like listening to somebody you kind of know while you're in line to pay for gas. However, sometimes the gags run on a little long. I felt this most during the Trump letter to Canada. My notes from that point literally just say, "Ew Gross, Uncle Mark. Stop!"

Ultimately a good time. I'd recommend this one to his fans, of course, but also fans of 'This Hour Has 22 Minutes' in general, and millennial Newfoundlanders or older.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the ARC.

Available November 25, 2025

[Lex · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book reads like a collection of rejected bits that were too good to just throw away. The history is pretty surface-level, and as someone who doesn't know a lot about Canadian history, it was a great way for me to find interesting topics to research elsewhere on my own. This book was written in response to Trump saying that he'll make Canada the 51st state, and because of that context, Critch spends a lot of his time making fun of the US and comparing Canada to the US. I did get a bit tired of this because he removed a lot of nuance from the conversation that would have actually made his point even stronger.

In general, it sounds like the humor in this book is pretty on par with what you can usually get from him as a comedian. If you like his typical work, then you'll love this book! I did think that some of the bits just went on for way too long, namely the letter from Trump. He reads the audiobook himself, and I think that was a great decision for this book.

Ultimately, this book was fine. I didn't really like Critch's humor, found his writing frustrating because of his reliance on shallow stereotypes, and think I just wasn't the target audience for this book. This will be a smash hit with people who know what Critch is about and enjoy him!

[SBF · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was rushed to capitalize on the current political situation here, and it shows. Some pretty egregious errors slipped through that an editor should have caught: page 139 of the hardcover copy, first page of the chapter 'Operation Trojan Moose': "Jefferson wasn't the first president to covet his neighbour's country. Abraham Lincoln's secretary of state, William Henry Seward, also wanted to move the property line and take our lawn." Chronologically, this should say 'last president' or 'only president', since Jefferson died in 1826 and Lincoln became president in 1861. Page 210 refers to "Jeallybean Row" instead of "Jellybean Row" in St. John's, NL. Critch re-used some 'This Hour Has 22 Minutes' sketches in the text: I noticed two right away, but I'm not a regular viewer anymore (dropped away mostly after the original cast left) so there could be more. These are nitpicks, though. My main complaint was a bit too much reliance on old stereotypes, and some encounters he describes with real people I'm sure never happened, at least not as written. But one doesn't look to a comedian for complete accuracy! It was nice to read that others like me value our culture and country, and want to keep it separate and ours, and protect it.

[Teena in Toronto · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mark Critch is a Canadian comedian, actor and writer. He is best known for his work on the CBC comedy series, This Hour Has 22 Minutes.

Sorry, Not Sorry is a collection of essays about what it means to be Canadian and why Canada is worth caring about. It was written in response to Trump saying that he'll make Canada the 51st state. Critch uses jokes, personal stories and satire to talk about Canadian identity, pride and unity. I liked the writing style and for the most part agreed with his opinions. He touches on everything including the Canadian flag, Newfoundland joining Confederation and Freedom Convoy. I enjoyed these essays and found them interesting and learned something. Some of the essays (like the letters Trump or Lt. Clem Boone might write) were too long and boring so I skipped over them.

Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2025/12...

[Krystal Spooner · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who was born and raised in Canada and now lives in the US I really enjoyed this book. I just got back from visiting my family in Canada and this hit home for what it feels like. The mention of Mr Dress Up and The Friendly Giant, and the way I loved Queen Elizabeth just brought me so much nostalgia. Touching base on how a monarchy can shape a nation put words to something I can’t explain myself.

I will always identify as a Canadian first, I have a maple leaf tattooed on my foot to symbolize our national anthem.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee 🇨🇦

This satirical representation of the relationship between Canada and The United States had me laughing all the way through.

This is the type of book I would recommend to any of my family and fellow Canadians. It just hit different.

[Darlene Karalash · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sorry that I bought and read this book--I've enjoyed watching "This Hour Has 22 Minutes" over the years and I am actively seeking out humorous political satire during these most unsettling times. A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down. As with any collection of stories, some resonated more than others. I did not finish the chapter with Dumpty's musings--I could not stomach it! And, in light of recent events in Minnesota, I felt overwhelming sadness about Santa's encounter with Ice. Other chapters, however, were laugh-out-loud funny! I particularly liked the inclusion of mini Canadian history lessons, especially those that recounted eras which the author experienced--my favourite was the essay about Canadian content on television.

After reading other Goodreads reviews of this book, I AM sorry that I didn't choose the audio format.

[Elysha Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sorry, Not Sorry is a funny and satirical take on what it means to be Canadian, especially in 2025.

It goes through Canada’s history and culture and our relationship with the USA, especially now. I will say, it does not shy away from the worst parts of Canadian history, which is always refreshing.

I got a lot of laughs listening to this and it definitely raised my national pride a bit! I particularly enjoyed the parts on Canadian monuments and Can-Con TV, especially as someone who watched Mr. Dressup growing up.

This is a fun and quick listen, perfect for any Canadian who needs a laugh in these times.

Thank you for NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada Audio for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Lynn Shire · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Mark Critch, but not this book. He admits that he rushed this book - he claims it was due to anger and patriotism, but I suspect he wanted to cash in on the anti-US sentiment.

Many of the jokes were stale by the time the book was published as most of us have thought of them ourselves over the past 10 months of dealing with the nonsense from the orange idiot. The only saving grace was the Newfoundland & Labrador history as a foundation for this book.

I have visited all 10 provinces, and NL is by far my favourite. I would live there if it wasn’t for the weather. And the blackflies give Ontario blackflies serious competition for being the meanest in the land. Maybe they are Americans in disguise?

[G Kembel · Rating 3 out of 5]

if you like Critch's humour on This Hour has 22 Minutes, and I do, you may like much of this hastily put together book. In light of the rapid deterioration of our relationship with our southern neighbour, I felt that the mild anxiety provoked by the initial presidential statements have progressed to a different level in the time between the original concept for the book and its release for Christmas. I found it hard to laugh. I also think the subtitle " what makes Canada worth fighting for" only superficially addressed. I would love to see that list from deep Canadian ( or Canadaphile) thinkers and historians.

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, that was a breath of fresh air after the harrowing week we just went through with tRump threatening to take over Greenland. The Devos 2026 summit seemed to calm things a bit for now but Mark Critch's book was like much needed balm for my frazzled nerves. Mark was able to articulate what most Canadians are feeling but couldn't quite put our finger on. We are all angry and I dread that we will be invaded by the US.
There are so many laughs in this book, a couple in every chapter, that bent you right over laughing; you forget about the serious situation for a bit. Great read for all Canadians.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sorry, Not Sorry: An Unapologetic Look at What Makes Canada Worth Fighting For is a book by Canadian comedian Mark Critch. Critch examines what it means to be Canadian in a time of rising national pride, using humor to tackle serious questions about identity and unity. This book is a love letter to Canada full of Canadian history, modern issues and packed to the brim with humor and satire. Bravo Mr. Critch! Thank you Libro.fm for the ALC - the audio is narrated by Mark Critch, his impersonations are absolutely fantastic!

[Ramona Jennex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark Critch slapped it right out of the rink with this "unapologetic' rant/musing of the political landscape of Canada at this point in time.
A great way to start the New Year was listening to this book in the audio format with the very funny author reading his own words. (I feel and suggest that this book is best experienced in the audio format.)
It is evident that Mark Critch is a passionate and proud Canadian - he doesn't mince words in this personal take on what it means to be Canadian.
Deadly!

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Without question, one of the funniest, and most endearing books I’ve ever read. Mark Critch is open and honest with his thoughts on Trump, Canadian-American relations, and what it is to be Canadian. But in true Canadian fashion, it’s all done with a touch of humility and bathed in humour.

This is a book that I will strongly recommend to all my Canadian brethren and to anyone else who wants to know what it means to be Canadian.

I legitimately laughed out loud numerous times, but none so hard as the description of Mr. Dressup. A beauty of a book.

[Tori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mark Critch always knows how to make me laugh, and this book did not disappoint.
I listened to the audiobook, and I’m so glad Critch narrated it himself—his delivery adds so much to the comedic experience.
It’s a quick, entertaining read that’s full of laughs from start to finish.

One of my favorite moments was when he recalls the Queen coming to Newfoundland—it was both hilarious and captures his storytelling style.

[Lisa Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welp, this was so good I immediately looked to see what else he's written. It's funny and serious at the same time, perfectly showing how ridiculous everything is right now. And I loved the format with the different parts, they were like skits. Thanks to NetGalley I got to listen to the audiobook and the narration was perfection, very humorous.

[Debby · Rating 3 out of 5]

For Canadians *and* their southern neighbors, this collection of essays is a quick, fun read. Read my full review here. 3.5⭐

Publication is expected November 25.

#NetGalley #PenguinRandomHouseCanadaAudiobooks #Viking #SorryNotSorry

[Daniel Kukwa · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's the kind of sweet, gentle humour I'd expect from Mark Critch...but does it now feel a bit stale, in this post-Trump world? Reading this felt like an echo of a previous time, though Mr Critch tries to be relevant...perhaps that Canada...and that Newfoundland...are just rose-tinted memories at this point.

[Cheryl Stadnichuk · Rating 3 out of 5]

Apart from two chapters I didn’t like (one of them being Trump writing to Canada as if we were a woman), this book has some interesting and laugh out loud parts.
Critch is genuinely funny and throws out unexpected lines that make you snort out loud.
If I had been his editor, I would have taken out a few parts and then this book would have a higher rating