Perhaps the best way to engage with the Order of Canada is through the stories of those who proudly wear the snowflake insignia. With that in mind, the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General has proudly supported the creation of a landmark anniversary book, They Desire a Better Country. Through words and images, you will encounter some of the remarkable individuals who collectively comprise one of our country's highest civilian honours.

Written by Lawrence Scanlan and translated by Daniel Poliquin, this book showcases luminaries and unheralded wave makers alike, of every age, from coast to coast to coast, and celebrates the breathtaking diversity of Canadian achievements. You may learn things about eminent individuals that you didn't know before and be introduced to extraordinary people whose names and work are unfamiliar, but who nonetheless have made a lasting impact.

And though this book captures only a handful of their stories, it is a reflection of the inspiration all Order of Canada members bestow upon us. (From Figure 1 Publishing)