This book was a big disappointment. In terms of subject matter, the book is quite interesting: i.e. Cohen analyses the Canadian identity from various angle, from Canada's relationship to the U.S., to the Canadian identity formed by multiculturalism, to the borderline disdain that many Canadians have for the capital Ottawa.
Cohen's interesting analysis, however, is undermined by a literary tone that is, to be frank, right down snooty. It is ironic to hear Cohen complain about how Canadians can sometimes be smug, while engaging in a form of prose that is incredibly arrogant.
By the end of the book I was left with a bitter-taste in my mouth. On the one hand, I was impressed with the depth and variety of Cohen's ideas and analysis. On the other hand, I was not impressed by how much of an arrogant ass he was. All in all, reading this book is like going to a lecture of a brilliant professor who is also pompous and at times insufferable.
2 1/ 2 out of 5 stars
