A PUBLIC PURPOSE. Kent, Tom. Montreal. McGill-Queen's University Press, 1988. 446pp. cloth, $29.95. ISBN 0-7735-0649-7. CIP Grades 12 and up Reviewed by Louise Dick Volume 16 Number 5 1988 September After becoming assistant editor of The Economist, Kent came to Canada and became editor of the Winnipeg Free Press. His active involvement in the Liberal party began in 1957 when he became Pearson's adviser and speech-writer. Kent subsequently served as deputy minister of employment and immigration and in the department of Regional Economic Expansion. Kent disagreed with Trudeau's economic policies and left Ottawa in 1971. Kent's analysis of the Pearson led Liberal opposition and government is detailed and personal; it is tightly written and candid in its expression of personal opinions and ideas. As "an account of involvement in public life"— Kent's involvement—A Public Purpose presents a political evaluation that is informed rather than detached. For students of public affairs, Kent's description of important events in the context of the political process and political leadership will be interesting and informative. Louise Dick, Branksome Hall School, Toronto, Ont.