John Fraser

Often misunderstood or even unrecognized, Canada’s governors general are not merely heads of state; they are amongst the great constitutional curiosities of our age.

In this delightful and often whimsical account of the Canadians who have held this post since 1952, journalist and author John Fraser explains the successful, if illogical, evolution of the institution and engages readers with the hilarious foibles, moving triumphs, and sombre tragedies of the men and women who have been chosen to represent the Sovereign in Canada. With personal knowledge of all of the governors general, Fraser proves a delightful guide whose tales range from an amusing schoolboy encounter with the magisterial Vincent Massey, a profound conversation with Georges Vanier, intimate moments with Adrienne Clarkson, and a bracing account of the catastrophic mandate of former astronaut Julie Payette.

The Governors General is an original foray into an often misunderstood and underestimated institution at the ceremonial apex of the Canadian constitution.