Is There Bacon in Heaven? by Ali Hassan

Growing up, Ali Hassan was a chameleon. His friends came from many different backgrounds and religionsTrinidadian, Parsi, Goan, Hindu, Christian, Sikh. And as a hockey-playing, crockpot-using young man who also knew the words to at least ten Neil Young songs, he could blend in everywhere. But the world has a funny way of reminding you who you are, and his Muslim Pakistani family and community did, too.

In this hilarious and insightful memoir based on his hit stand-up comedy, Hassan shares his life-long journey to becoming a cultural Muslimlearning to walk the line of embracing his heritage while still following his passions. From failing to learn Arabicor much of anything, reallyin Sunday school and visiting family in Pakistan (who mocked him constantly) to discovering the wonders of pepperoni as a teenager and being a celebrity judge at Ribfest, Hassan finds himself in compromising situations that challenge his beliefs and very identity. And along the way, his friends and family are there to either encourage or criticize, something he finds eternally confusing.

Now, as a father of four, Hassan must explain his point of view to his children. But he can't just "give them" an identity as a cultural Muslim. Sharing his story is the next best thing. (FromSimon and Schuster)

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Ali Hassan is an actor, comedian, host ofCBCRadio'sLaugh Out Loudand frequent guest host ofqandAs It Happens. He is alsothe host of CBC Books'Canada Reads.He hasrecurring roles onRun the Burbs(CBC),Odd Squad(PBS Kids) andWorking Moms(CBC). In fall 2019, Hassan was part of the cross-country Just for LaughsComedy Night in Canadatour with Rick Mercer.

Interviews with Ali Hassan

The Next Chapter6:31Ali Hassan answers the Proust Questionnaire

Stand-up comedian and host of CBC Radio's Laugh Out Loud Ali Hassan on his idea of perfect happiness, his favourite journey and more.

Get to know Canada Reads host Ali Hassan

8 years ago

Duration 1:32

Ali Hassan will host Canada Reads for the first time in 2017. We get to know the comedian a little better by asking him a series of rapid-fire questions.

4:57Ali Hassan previews The CBC Books Holiday Radio Special

Shelagh Rogers chats with Ali Hassan about The CBC Books Holiday Radio Special. A top-ten countdown of the best books of 2021, with author interviews and book reviews.

CBC Radio Specials1:37:20Canada Reads 20th anniversary special

We're celebrating the great Canadian book debate's 20th anniversary! Host Ali Hassan looks back at some of the most dramatic and unexpected moments in the shows history and speaks with past authors and panellists to find out what their Canada Reads experience means to them.