TORONTO When the pandemic struck Canada in early March, spurring lockdowns and the closure of non-essential businesses, Canadians were suddenly parted from pastimes such as going to the movies, hanging out with friends in a bar or attending concerts. But one of the few distractions still possible during a pandemic? Reading a good book. According to industry experts, Canadians increased their reading during 2020, particularly in the spring when books were a balm on the new reality of a deadly virus sweeping across the globe. Readers gobbled up books on topics from escapist romance to pandemic-themed thrillers to baking books.