Margaret Laurence: Biography, Books & Where to Start

Who was Margaret Laurence?

Margaret Laurence set five books in Manawaka, a fictional prairie town modelled on her birthplace. The Stone Angel (1964), narrated by the proud, unbending 90-year-old Hagar Shipley, is one of the most taught Canadian novels; The Diviners (1974) completes the cycle.

Where to start

Begin with The Stone Angel.

Margaret Laurence’s books, in order

1. The Stone Angel (1964)
   Free at: Open Library · Internet Archive · WorldCat Find & borrow →
2. The Diviners (1974)
   Free at: Open Library · Internet Archive · WorldCat Find & borrow →

Part of our Canadian Classics reading list — print it, email it to yourself or share it.

More Canadian authors

Susanna Moodie · L. M. Montgomery · Stephen Leacock · Gabrielle Roy · Alice Munro · Margaret Atwood

Frequently asked questions

Who was Margaret Laurence?

Margaret Laurence set five books in Manawaka, a fictional prairie town modelled on her birthplace. The Stone Angel (1964), narrated by the proud, unbending 90-year-old Hagar Shipley, is one of the most taught Canadian novels; The Diviners (1974) completes the cycle.

What is Margaret Laurence’s most famous book?

The Stone Angel is usually considered Margaret Laurence’s best-known work, followed by The Diviners, A Jest of God.

Which Margaret Laurence book should I read first?

Most readers start with The Stone Angel.

Is it Margaret Laurence or Laurence?

Both refer to the same writer.

Can I read Margaret Laurence’s books free online?

Margaret Laurence’s books are still under copyright, so they are not free to download, but many can be borrowed free from your public library or Open Library — we link to them below.