Extraordinary Canadians: Louis Riel and Gabriel Dumont

A Penguin Lives Biography

$16.00 US
Penguin Canada | Hamish Hamilton
24 per carton
On sale Sep 03, 2013 | 9780143055860
Sales rights: World
Louis Riel, a controversial Métis mystic and visionary, fought for his people’s rights against an encroaching tide of white settlers. Hunter and Métis leader Gabriel Dumont, a man tested by warfare, was, in contrast, a pragmatic realist of the land. Celebrated novelist Joseph Boyden explores the tumultuous year when Riel and Dumont united the Métis while dividing a nation. Could Dumont have foreseen the impact on the Métis cause when he brought Riel home? While making rational demands of Sir John A. Macdonald, Riel seemed increasingly overtaken by a messianic mission. His controversial execution by the Canadian government in 1885 still reverberates today. Boyden, with his powerful narrative skill, creates an unforgettable portrait of two seminal Canadian figures who helped shape the country.
“[The series is] entertaining, literary and informative.” —The National Post/ Canwest

“The books would be a lovely addition to any library . . . they’re accessible and ready to be read by all.” —The Nova Scotian (Sunday Herald)

About

Louis Riel, a controversial Métis mystic and visionary, fought for his people’s rights against an encroaching tide of white settlers. Hunter and Métis leader Gabriel Dumont, a man tested by warfare, was, in contrast, a pragmatic realist of the land. Celebrated novelist Joseph Boyden explores the tumultuous year when Riel and Dumont united the Métis while dividing a nation. Could Dumont have foreseen the impact on the Métis cause when he brought Riel home? While making rational demands of Sir John A. Macdonald, Riel seemed increasingly overtaken by a messianic mission. His controversial execution by the Canadian government in 1885 still reverberates today. Boyden, with his powerful narrative skill, creates an unforgettable portrait of two seminal Canadian figures who helped shape the country.

Praise

“[The series is] entertaining, literary and informative.” —The National Post/ Canwest

“The books would be a lovely addition to any library . . . they’re accessible and ready to be read by all.” —The Nova Scotian (Sunday Herald)