RSJ contract lecturer releases book about great Canadians

Mark Bulgutch, a contract lecturer at the Ryerson School of Journalism, has co-written a book about Canadians who should inspire people. 

The book, called “Extraordinary Canadians: Stories from the Heart of Our Nation,” (external link)  came out on Nov. 10, 2020. Bulgutch co-wrote “Extraordinary Canadians” with Peter Mansbridge, a former television anchor at CBC News. 

Bulgutch said the inspiration for “Extraordinary Canadians” came from Simon & Schuster Canada approaching Mansbridge. Mansbridge said he did not have time to write the book, but he loved the idea. Simon & Schuster Canada suggested he use a ghostwriter, which he did not like. 

“He knew he needed somebody, and he knew me, since we’ve worked together for 35 years,” said Bulgutch. “He told them he would do the book, but not with a ghostwriter of their choosing. He wanted me.” 

Mansbridge brought Bulgutch down to Simon & Schuster Canada. The publisher spoke with Bulgutch about the book, and they viewed him as capable. 

He said he enjoyed co-writing “Extraordinary Canadians” and that it was an educational opportunity for him. 

One person from the book who stood out to him was Reuven Bulka, the rabbi who gives the benediction on Parliament Hill every Remembrance Day. Bulgutch used to produce the Remembrance Day broadcast for CBC News, and he recalled the highlight of every ceremony being Bulka’s benediction. 

Another story he enjoyed writing was that of Frances Wright, the founder of the Famous Five Foundation. Wright advocated for a statue on Parliament Hill of the five activists who pushed for women to be legally recognized as “persons.” 

Bulgutch also spoke with Robb Nash, a rock musician. He said he was hesitant when interviewing Nash because of his appearance, yet he found out this musician was a shy, sincere person. 

The book was supposed to be about Canadian heroes, but Bulgutch and Mansbridge felt it would become tired over time. They settled on writing about extraordinary Canadians, which are people whose achievements have benefited the country even when they had to overcome obstacles. Bulgutch said the people who he spoke with were humble, viewing themselves as not that extraordinary. He had to remind these people that their accomplishments have made Canada a better place. 

He said many people felt “Extraordinary Canadians” was the perfect book to read during the COVID-19 pandemic. People kept hearing depressing news, but the stories from the book lifted them up. 

Bulgutch said people should read this book because it reminds them that they should be proud to live in Canada. 

“We are surrounded by extraordinary, and we should recognize that,” he said. “Peter and I believe that we have a great country, and not enough Canadians seem to realize that.”