Description Douglas & McIntyre, Vancouver, BC, 1979. ISBN 0-88894-246-X. Large, square soft cover, 168 pages including Acknowledgements. Illustrated wraps show very light edge and spine end wear, a bit of cover wear, small corner creases; binding sound. Colour frontis; interior clean and unmarked with black & white cartoons/illustrations; two straightened lower corner bends; bit of age spotting on lower page block. ‘Roy Peterson … has savaged enough politicians to have earned him a world-wide reputation … Allan Fotheringham … the man called “the greatest guff remover and cob-web blower in Canadian journalism” … Time called him “the most consistently controversial columnist in Canadian journalism” …’ (from rear wrap)

Overview

This 1979 publication by Douglas & McIntyre offers a unique blend of sharp political satire and insightful commentary. The collaboration between Roy Peterson, renowned for his biting cartoons, and Allan Fotheringham, celebrated for his incisive column writing, creates a compelling narrative that captures the political climate of the era with wit and clarity.

Physical Condition

The book’s large, square soft cover has held up well over time. While there is some very light edge and spine-end wear, along with minor cover scuffing and small corner creases, the overall condition is solid. The binding remains sound, ensuring durability for continued reading or display. Inside, the pages are clean and unmarked, featuring a striking colour frontispiece and numerous black and white cartoons and illustrations that complement the text effectively. Although there are two slightly bent lower corners and some age-related spotting on the lower page block, these minor flaws do not detract from the book’s overall presentation.

Content Highlights

The book showcases Roy Peterson’s masterful ability to "savage" politicians through his cartoons, a talent that has earned him international acclaim. His illustrations not only entertain but also provoke thought, making complex political issues accessible and engaging. Allan Fotheringham’s contributions are equally noteworthy. Known as “the greatest guff remover and cob-web blower in Canadian journalism,” Fotheringham offers sharp, provocative columns that challenge conventional perspectives and expose political absurdities with a deft touch.

Critical Reception

Critics and readers alike have praised the duo for their fearless approach to political commentary. As noted on the rear wrap, Time magazine recognized Fotheringham as "the most consistently controversial columnist in Canadian journalism," highlighting the impact and significance of his work. Together, Peterson and Fotheringham have created a volume that remains relevant for anyone interested in Canadian politics, journalism, and satire.

Conclusion

For collectors and enthusiasts of political satire, this Douglas & McIntyre edition stands as a valuable and engaging piece. Its combination of sharp wit, insightful commentary, and compelling artwork make it a must-have for those seeking to understand the nuances of Canadian political discourse during the late 20th century.