The Great Canadian Book of Lists

Jeffrey Moon is head of the Documents Reference/Data Centre at Queen’s
University.

The Great Canadian Book of Lists is a delightfully refreshing diversion
from standard prose. The lists, ranging in substance from the serious to
the sublime, were compiled using informal polls, celebrity opinions, and
an eclectic selection of subject experts. Objective lists (e.g., those
based on “hard” data) are the least likely to cause debate, but are
fascinating in their own right. More “subjective” lists will no
doubt spark debates around the kitchen table—can anyone agree on the
top 10 sexy Canadian men (or women)? Leonard Cohen? Go figure.

Unfortunately, many lists omit source information. In some cases, this
is because contributors to the list-making process were too numerous to,
well, list. The authors acknowledge this shortcoming, but offer no
explanation for not including source information for more objective
listings (e.g., years with highest immigration, Canada’s 10 largest
islands and 10 highest mountains). List items are numbered, but unless
otherwise stated, are not in any ranked order. The difficulties
associated with ranking lists are understandable, but our natural desire
to know “who came first” is left unfulfilled.

What makes The Great Canadian Book of Lists really appealing is its
irreverence and unashamed focus on Canada. Add this fun and
thought-provoking book to your list of things to take to the cottage.