Strong ties bind Canada and the United States. Canada and the United States have the largest trading relationship in the world and share a border that stretches 5000 miles across North America. However, differences in culture, history, government and politics lead to tensions and misunderstandings. These books may help explain the relationship between the two countries.
1) "A Diary Between Friends"
This coffee-table book produced by the government of Canada commemorates the sympathy and support Canadians have for their American neighbours in the immediate aftermath of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. Photos, letters, articles and messages show the deep relationship between Canadians and Americans. Hardcover.
2) "The Vanishing Country: Is it Too Late to Save Canada"
Canadian nationalist Mel Hurtig says the border between Canada and the United States is fragile and Canada is at risk of vanishing. Hurtig hits issues like health care, media concentration, parliamentary reform and taxes. This book is a pointed reminder of the things many of us cherish about Canada.
3) "Invisible and Inaudible in Washington"
Authors Edelgard Mahant and Graeme S.Mount look at U.S. policies from 1945 to the 1980s and their relation to Canada. The conclusion that Canada has not been important to the United States may not be a surprise. They also cite a number of cases on different issues to challenge any belief that Canadian advice has been treated with respect in Washington. Paperback.
4) "Wrestling with the Elephant"
The subtitle of this book by Gordon Ritchie is "The Inside Story of the Canada-U.S. Trade Wars." This isn't a new book, but Gordon Ritchie's experience as one of the negotiators of the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement highlights some perennial truths about Canada-U.S. relations. The cast of characters and clear analysis make this a great read. Hardcover.
