Discovering Canada's Government

Alison Mews is co-ordinator of the Centre for Instructional Services at
Memorial University of Newfoundland.

These latest two large-format, visually appealing volumes in the
Discovery Series introduce readers to different aspects of Canada’s
social life. Each book includes a detailed table of contents; a glossary
defining terms that appear throughout the text in bold type; pictures,
charts, and maps with explanatory captions; shaded boxes featuring
trivia related to the chapter’s topic; and text boxes at the end of
each chapter with suggested classroom activities. Information appears
current (e.g., Nunavut is on the maps, Chrétien and Clark are very much
in evidence, and Web site addresses are given).

In addition to expected topics like Parliament, political parties, and
voting, Canada’s Government includes information on First Nations
government, the Crown, the Governor General’s Awards, the role of
media, and federal/provincial responses to the 1998 ice storm. Women’s
contribution to Canadian society is covered in many important figures
such as Chief Justice Beverley McLaughlin, former Prime Minister Kim
Campbell, and Nellie McClung.

Using the simple analogy of a lemonade stand, Canada’s Trading
Partners defines the mechanics of trade and then follows with its
history. An overview of imports and exports is provided before
Canada’s trading partners are discussed. Subsequent chapters offer a
“closer look” at our three main partners—the United States, Japan,
and Mexico. Canada’s economic place on the world stage is rounded out
with brief descriptions of trade agreements (e.g., NAFTA) and trade
organizations (e.g., OECD). The book also includes Canada’s
peacekeeping role and portraits of internationally known Canadians.

Both books provide excellent introductions to the topics presented, and
would make wonderful classroom resources. Highly recommended.