So, This Is Canada!

Christine Linge is a past director of the Toronto & District Parent
Co-operative Preschool Corporation and a freelance writer.

B.D. Eagle, anthropologist, sociologist, and geographer, is surprised
when an amnesiac Canada goose enters his Washington, D.C., birdhouse.
Intrigued by the challenge of discovering the goose’s identity, B.D.
and his hummingbird sidekick, Quick, are persuaded to extend their
studies north of the border.

With this captivating introduction, presented in comic-book format, the
authors launch an unconventional history and geography of Canada that
has the page-turning quality of a mystery novel. Initially, our
protagonists explore the seven climatic regions of Canada, each
presented in a visual smorgasbord of flora, fauna, and such local
phenomena as the Northern Lights. “Quick’s Notes” on each region
add further details (more text, less artwork), while B.D. has his own
page in which he presents the anthropologist/sociologist viewpoint.

The history, people, and government of Canada are similarly approached:
a comic-book interlude showing our heroes’ progress in their quest; a
systematic exploration of the subject (History starts with the “First
People”—15,000 years ago!); and, finally, Quick’s Notes and
B.D.’s comments. Throughout the text, which includes detailed cultural
and economic profiles of each province, information is presented in
accessible chunks with varying background colors. The authors encourage
thoughtful debate on such controversial issues as the Constitution and
Native rights by presenting clear “options” or solutions that Canada
might pursue. Several appendices cover Famous Canadians, Neat Stuff,
Canadian Inventions, and a Grab-bag of Facts.

Written with wit and clarity, logically presented, and overflowing with
bright pictures on glossy stock, this book will be irresistible to
learners of all ages. Highly recommended.