John Ibbitson is a journalist who wrote this book in the style of the "pamphlets" that were written and published in the past. The idea is to advance an argument fairly succinctly and have the work published in a timely manner so that it could be discussed at the coffee houses of the day. In this modern age, the Internet has replaced the coffee house and the book ends with an invitation to continue the discussion on line.

So, why do Americans have Barack Obama -- described as a positive force for change -- while Canadians have Stephen Harper and a system that is stagnating? The author suggests that the American system is more open: every registered party member (and you must register to vote) has a say in choosing the President. In Canada, the system is far less open, with only card-carrying members choosing the leader. He suggests that the public service is much more open in the U.S. than in Canada, with Cabinet members chosen from the general population rather than from among elected Members of Parliament (or the occasional Senator). The U.S. system allows for the emergence of a popular leader with a true mandate for change in a way the Canadian system does not.

Mr. Ibbitson discusses eductation, urban infrastructure, elected judges, trade and other topics to advance his argument that Canada would beneft from creating an more open political system.

The book was written in 2008, but I think it remains topical (I'm writing this in October, 2011). It's short, easy to read and definitely thought-provoking. ( )