How to Be a Canadian
by Will Ferguson, Ian Ferguson
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Book Summary Information
Author: Ian Ferguson, Will FergusonEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2003-10-10
ISBN: 1550548913
Number of pages: 176
Publisher: Douglas & McIntyre
Book Reviews of How to Be a Canadian
Book Review: A Canadian primer for outsiders, with tongue firmly in cheek
Summary: 5 Stars
Being Canadian (I am not, but know a few who are) is clearly as odd a thing as being any other nationality, but with the distinction that Canadians define themselves more often by what they are not (i.e., overly cultured, overly ambitious, American, French (if you live outside Quebec), English (if you don't) etc, etc). Canadians have a reputation for reticence about themselves, which leads many people (most often those who live right next door in a place that actively exports its ideas) regrettably not to know much about them.
So this book mines a rich seam of eccentric humor in many different ways (there is an entire chapter on "Eh?", for one). It reads like a series of stand-alone humorous pieces - which also makes it perfect for reading episodically while seated - if you get my drift.
It is, in effect, an "Idiot's Guide" type of book, but has the merit of not attempting to be an encyclopedia, which suits the material very well, and allows for interesting anecdotes both about Canada and about the process of writing the book.
There are many parts that made me laugh really hard, the chapter on Canadian cuisine for one. I can confirm that much of what is written is very accurate from my own observation. And the overall effect, while obviously needing to be funny and light reading, gives outsiders a really helpful quick study of the mystery of Canada and Canadians in particular.
Highly recommended.
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