Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is a short, rather simple, but yet clean and clear explanation of migration and migrant policy in Canada. The book has an introduction, a dictionary-esque section with migration and immigration terms defined in clear, exact language, and some applicable quotes from migrants to provide a bit more insight and color.

This is not an intense academic read, or an in-depth exploration of migration in Canada. Refugees and Forced Migration is, however, an excellent little volume – probably one of the best that I’ve seen/read explaining the various terms and policies toward migrants, with some insight as to challenges that migrants face. It’s also, of course, distinctly Canadian. I highly recommend that anyone with an interest in migrant policy in Canada read it, and would also think that it would be of much use to an actual migrant, as it explains some terms and policies that are nuanced in clear and very understandable language. That said, I’m not entirely sure who is going to be reading this book – policy makers are likely already familiar with the terminology, and unless the book is to be translated (and well-translated into multiple languages), I’m not sure how accessible it would be for migrants or their loved ones. Beside that question, however, I did find the book fascinating. It’s an easy read and, I can’t say it enough, clear and easily understood. The writing is very conversational. The various authors are clearly very much sympathetic and empathetic to migrants, while still being matter of fact and direct about national policy and the reality of borders and the need for immigration policy.

This is a fantastic resource for those interested in understanding more about refugees and the challenges they face on their journies and in their new countries. While it focuses on Canada, much of what is in this book is applicable elsewhere.