Jacques Parizeau's bestseller AN INDEPENDENT QUEBEC available May 17

MONTREAL, May 10 /CNW Telbec/ - "I am very pleased to see this book published in English," declared Jacques Parizeau. "It has always been my belief that the best way for Quebecers and English-speaking Canadians to reach an understanding that is satisfactory for all is through direct communication. Though we may not agree on the best course to take, we will at least understand and hopefully respect each other's choices."

Drawing on his rich experience, Jacques Parizeau explains how the idea of an independent Quebec took root and evolved and reviews Quebec's current economic, political, social, and cultural situation. No stones are left unturned: Why become independent? What is the role of the state and how should it be administered in a global economy? What challenges face Quebec sovereigntists, English Canadians, and their neighbours in the United States? Readers will better understand the cause Jacques Parizeau has defended with dignity for forty years and why he is one of Quebec's most respected political leaders.

The original La souveraineté du Québec has been a bestseller since November 2009.

Alain Dubuc, La Presse : "On all issues, Jacques Parizeau has interesting things to say. (...) Overall, it is the book of a leading civil servant, a major actor in the Quiet Revolution, and an extraordinary politician. His ideas, whether we share them or not, deserve our respect. There are too many mediocre politicians for us not to welcome the idea that a politician is also a thinker."

Louis Cornellier, Le Devoir : "What Parizeau brilliantly illustrates is that today 'no country is too small to develop as long as it is part of large trade space or market.' "

Jacques Parizeau holds a PhD in economics from the London School of Economics and was economic advisor to Quebec premiers Lesage, Johnson, and Bertrand in the 1960s. Elected to the Quebec National Assembly in 1976, he was Minister of Finance from 1976 through 1984. He was elected premier of Quebec in 1994 and led the Yes committee in the 1995 referendum. He is honorary professor of economics at HEC Montréal.

244 pages; Paper; $24.95; ISBN 9780981240565

Review copies: [email protected]

www.barakabooks.com

For further information: Robin Philpot, [phone]