Hope is Better than Fear, a new essay collection that's just been released as an e-book, honours Layton's work and encourages Canadians to carry it on.

By Hamutal Dotan

Canadians everywhere were shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Jack Layton. The public outpouring of affection for the man and admiration for what he stood for was an extraordinary moment in our country’s history. What made it so unique was the melding of grief with optimism, the sense that we needed to celebrate a life dedicated to making a difference, that we needed to hang on to the ideas Jack embodied… Many Canadians found themselves asking how they could best meet the challenge he had set.

This book is one response to Jack’s challenge and Jack’s inspiration.

So begins the foreword to a new book just released in memory of Jack Layton, Hope is Better than Fear. The book, a collaboration between Knopf Random Canada and Doubleday, collects essays by a number of civic leaders, researchers, and activists who volunteered their efforts for the project. Authors include David Miller, Craig Kielburger, and Svend Robinson, with topics ranging from transit strategies to the environment, in a mix of personal memories and political advocacy.

For now the book is available only in electronic form (for Kobo, Kindle, and Sony readers); the publishers are considering whether to follow this with a paperback print run as well. Proceeds from sales will go to two charities selected by Olivia Chow: the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation and Shannen’s Dream, which fights for educational equality for First Nations children.