Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Presentation of the Charles Taylor Prize for Literary Non-Fiction

TORONTO, March 4, 2013 /CNW/ - The success of Canadian books, at home and abroad, is due to the dedication of our diverse and gifted writers, and the skill and commitment of Canadian publishers from coast to coast to coast. It also comes from having a nation of readers who are passionate about discovering Canadian stories, ideas and values.

Every year, the Charles Taylor Prize for Literary Non-Fiction celebrates excellence in Canadian non-fiction writing by recognizing an outstanding English-language author.

I am proud to congratulate this year's winner, Andrew Preston for Sword of the Spirit, Shield of Faith. I would also like to applaud the finalists: Carol Bishop-Gwyn for The Pursuit of Perfection: A Life of Celia Franca , Tim Cook for Warlords: Borden, Mackenzie King , and Canada's World Wars, Sandra Djwa for Journey with No Maps: A Life of P.K. Page and Ross King for Leonardo and The Last Supper.

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I offer my sincere congratulations to this year's winner and finalists, and I would also like to commend the Charles Taylor Foundation on its efforts both to recognize excellence among Canadian non-fiction writers and to help their works reach a broad audience.

SOURCE Canadian Heritage