1004 The Penguin Dictionary of Popular Canadian Quotations. Edited by John Robert Colombo. Toronto: Penguin Books Canada. 498p. index. $22.00pa. ISBN 0-14-305369-8pa. CCIP. DDC C818'.02.

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?