When visual artist Esther Bryan decided to embark on an art project to celebrate Canada’s ethnic diversity, a patchwork quilt seemed a natural choice. Bryan envisioned “a monument in stitches and fabric to the patchwork of people who have come to Canada from many places and helped build this country.” When one of her project researchers discovered that at least one person from each of the world’s countries lived in Canada, Bryan decided to include a square for each nation, created by someone with ties to that country. In addition, she solicited squares to represent all of Canada’s aboriginal nations, including even the extinct Beothuk people. The final result is a visually impressive 263-square quilt measuring 3.5 metres high and 36 metres wide.

Toronto author Janice Weaver tells the story of the quilt from concept to completion in the first of this book’s three parts. In the second part she focuses on the individual squares, which were created and pieced together by hundreds of volunteers. Approximately 100 squares were photographed for the book. Many are accompanied by an explanation of the artistic vision for the piece. Not all of the squares are shown, but the author points interested readers to the project website where each may be viewed, along with a thorough description of the piece and the country it represents.

The third section, only four pages long, is the only part that really targets children. Weaver encourages children to create their own personal quilt, and provides broad suggestions on how to get started and includes no-sew options for those not particularly handy with needle and thread. The virtual quilt option will appeal to computer-savvy students. But the addition of more in-depth, step-by-step instructions would have boosted the book’s usefulness.

While nine- to 12-year-olds are the target audience, it’s unlikely many children will seek out this book. Adults will enjoy the stories and photos of the creative and colourful quilt pieces. Teachers may also find the book useful for discussions about multiculturalism.