Out of Muskoka

Out of Muskoka by James Bartleman, a stated first edition hardcover published by Penumbra Press in 2002. This illustrated memoir is presented in its original dust jacket and includes black-and-white visual material relating to Bartleman’s life and career.

Bartleman recounts his journey from an impoverished childhood in Ontario’s Muskoka district, where he and his family experienced racial discrimination, to a distinguished career in Canada’s diplomatic and public service. The memoir explores his Indigenous and European ancestry, questions of identity and belonging, and experiences accumulated during more than three decades of diplomatic postings. Bartleman became Ontario’s first Indigenous lieutenant governor in 2002.

This copy is inscribed and signed by James Bartleman on the title page. The inscription reads “With Best Wishes,” followed by his signature and the date January 14, 2003. It is a personally inscribed copy rather than a flat-signed example.

The seller grades the book Very Good. The dust jacket displays light rubbing, scattered small scuffs and marks, and minor wear along the edges, corners, and spine ends. The photographed title and copyright pages show no visible markings apart from the author’s inscription. A collectible signed first edition of an important Canadian memoir, suitable for readers and collectors interested in Muskoka, Indigenous Canadian history, diplomacy, and Ontario public life.