Contributor: Jack Austin Jack Austin, a former cabinet member and senator, has been involved in politics and public policy at the highest levels for more than fifty years. He lives in Vancouver. --- Contributor: Edie Austin Edie Austin has more than forty years of experience in journalism as a writer and editor and is the former editorial page editor of the Montreal Gazette.

“Given Jack Austin’s intellectual bent and acute insights, Unlikely Insider provides a detailed analysis of many of the most challenging policy issues of the day, several of which, as he himself notes, are ongoing concerns. It also offers a primer in the sociology of Canadian politics and political life, demonstrating conclusively – whether intentional or not – the complex and significant interrelationship between the various political, business, and academic elites, a reality first outlined decades ago by John Porter in ‘The Vertical Mosaic.’” Brooke Jeffrey, author of Road to Redemption: The Liberal Party of Canada, 2006–2019 --- “For most of Canada’s history, our nation was shaped from the centre; without contesting existing strengths, Jack Austin worked assiduously to open Canadians’ eyes to our west. With singular effectiveness he applied a political lens from British Columbia to Canada’s sense of our future, and we are all beneficiaries.” Rt Honourable Joe Clark, former prime minister of Canada --- “Jack Austin has played a unique role in Canada’s public life. His deep friendship with Pierre Trudeau, his unparalleled contacts in China, his leadership in representing British Columbia and western Canada in Ottawa, and his personal exuberance, warmth, and wide-ranging friendships make his a voice we need to hear!” Bob Rae, Canadian ambassador to the United Nations --- “A great Canadian whose contribution is significant – Jack Austin’s influence in building our country’s emergence as a Pacific nation serves us well. His story brings the evolution of Canada as a nation over the last half century vividly to life.” Don Campbell, former deputy foreign minister --- “Unlikely Insider is a book that will appeal to political junkies and general readers alike. It provides valuable new perspectives on some important policy issues, and it is sprinkled with interesting anecdotes and revelations that help keep the narrative moving along at a brisk pace. This is well-constructed memoir. It leaves the reader realizing that nation-building is, has been, and ever will be, a work in progress.” Policy Magazine --- “At a time when lifelong political leaders are as often denigrated as celebrated, Jack Austin has made a compelling case for a commitment to service built around inclusion, social justice, and long-term nation building.” Literary Review of Canada