The Penguin Dictionary of Popular Canadian Quotations

Janet Collins is a freelance writer in Sechelt, British Columbia.

Barlett’s Familiar Quotations has been an indispensable tome since it
was first published in 1882. But while the ubiquitous reference book
continues to be an excellent source of wit and wisdom, it is heavy on
Shakespeare but short on CanCon.

Thank goodness for John Robert Colombo, whose work proves not only that
Canadians have something to say, but that we often say something worth
remembering. Politicians, authors, entertainers, business leaders,
athletes, academics, and other prominent Canadians are well represented
in this book. From Roy Romanow’s comments on health care to Karla
Homolka’s remarks on leaving prison, from the winning words of a CBC
radio listener to Justin Trudeau’s eulogy to his father, it’s all
here and so much more. Citizens from other countries also weigh in,
offering memorable comments on all things Canadian from Charles de
Gaulle’s infamous “Vive le Quebec libre!” to George W. Bush’s
expression of a desire to meet “a prominent citizen who endorsed [him]
in the 2000 election … Jean Poutine.”

The arrangement of quotes is by subject (no need to consult the index
to find a desired topic), which increases the book’s utility. Under
each subject heading, corresponding quotes are given in chronological
order together with a citation of the context in which the original
quote was given. Two subject headings—Hockey and Canada—are given
three pages each of coverage. Can you get any more Canadian than that?