Immigrants Adapt, Countries Adopt -- or Not: Fitting into the Cultural Mosaic

"We know that Canada is a nation of immigrants. But how much do we know about the thoughts and emotions of those who embark on the daunting venture of giving up one country in exchange for another? What happens when immigrants try to adjust to a new country? That is not well understood neither by the immigrants themselves nor by Canadian society. Originally, immigrants were Europeans, many from imperial states. More recently, the sources of immigrants have shifted towards countries which themselves were victims of European empires. Historical grievances, xenophobia, security concerns and cultural misunderstandings make it stressful for immigrants to adapt to Canada ... and vice versa. Adaptation is even more difficult in Quebec, were there is fear of the effects of multiculturalism on a ""distinct society."" Recently, the position of immigrants has been complicated by fears of terrorism, especially for Canada's growing Muslim population. Cherif Rifaat has crossed cultures twice, from Egypt to Europe, then again to Canada. He weaves his experiences, perceptions, hopes and anxieties into the context of major historical and global events, in a lively and thought provoking account of today's immigration process. He believes Canada is the best country in the world for immigrants. More than the personal memoirs of a ""New Canadian,"" this book explains Canada's uniqueness through its history and comparison with other nations."