Читать книгу Full Circle: Death and Resurrection In Canadian Conservative Politics - Bob Plamondon - Страница 5

Without the advice and encouragement of Lawrence Martin, this book might never have seen the light of day. He helped me navigate the publishing process, and he introduced me to Rick Broadhead, who became my literary agent. He graciously and directly rejected the first fifty or so titles that I proposed, but contributed Death and Resurrection to the subtitle. I am deeply indebted to him, not just for writing the foreword, but also for helping to steer this project at critical junctures.

An historical account of this period would be pretty dull without people who were willing to expose their personal involvement, good or bad. I am grateful to the nearly fifty people who shared their insights and experiences. Some even suggested lines of inquiry, made introductory calls, and set up interviews.

Some of the people I interviewed are epic figures whose service to conservative politics warrants their own books. Senator David Angus is among the most colourful, engaging, and encouraging men I have ever met in the party. The Right Honourable Don Mazankowski, John Diefenbaker’s last seatmate, is an icon whose contributions are matched with a wonderful capacity for story telling. Senator Marjory LeBreton has lived many lives in the party. She has been and is close to several leaders of this country, yet she remains grounded in mainstream Canada. Senator Gerry St. Germain is forthright and insightful. He bears the scars of taking a bold and early stand on the merger of the parties.

I am grateful to several friends and colleagues who read through various random notes and rough drafts and provided comments, especially Graham Fox, Jim Lambe, Bill Pristanski, Paul McAneney, Susan Snider, and Mark Sutcliffe. France Lépine is a meticulous researcher and aspiring writer who painstakingly read every word of the early manuscript. Arguing facts with France is useful only if you enjoy being proven wrong. I am indebted to France for the many hours she contributed to this project.

I am also fortunate to have two nearly lifelong friends whose talents I was able to exploit. John Usborne, who never waters down his opinions, made sure my conclusions were clear, strong, and well supported. He eagerly read everything I sent him. Kurt Rufelds is both my friend and teacher. Whatever I know about writing, and how much work it can be, I learned from Kurt. His contribution to this book was enormous.

When I first spoke with my agent, Rick Broadhead, I told him I had two conditions only. The first was his enthusiasm. The second was getting the book into the marketplace in the fall of 2006. He delivered in spades, and we laughed our way through almost every hurdle.

Clare McKeon edited the book for publication. I have no doubt that she has, from every author, a 99 per cent acceptance rate on her suggested changes. If my mother reads this book and concludes that my writing has improved, it is because of the nature and extent of Clare’s work. She was a joy to work with.

This is my second major book. Both have coincided with my wife’s pregnancies and the first three months of our children’s lives. I did not plan it that way, and need forgiveness for vanishing on occasion when the crunch was on. I could not have written this book without Marian’s love and understanding. I have a wonderful life with Marian, Nathaniel, Charlotte, Megan, and Michael. I hope my children will draw some inspiration from what hard work and dedication can produce, especially when the television is turned off. And, kids, in case I haven’t mentioned it lately, say no to drugs, keep your mind and bodies healthy, and your hearts open.

Readers may contact the author at: bob@bobplamondon.com