Greg Mason is returning as a juror for the JW Dafoe Book Prize.
Appointed Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of Manitoba in 1974, after completing graduate work at UBC, his initial research focused on transportation, housing and land use planning. His academic interests took a sharp turn in 1981, when he became Director of the Institute for Social and Economic Research, which had a primary goal of rehabilitating the data from the Manitoba Basic Income Experiment (Mincome).
What are you looking for in the winning book?
It must reveal an important aspect and preferably not a well-known part of Canadian life and society. It also should be both accessible and sophisticated in style and content. Finally, it should appeal to that rare fictional character – the intelligent layperson.
Why did you want to be a part of the JW Dafoe Book Prize Jury?
How else am I going to read 60+ books of Canadian authors in 2 months? It also forces me to read physical books, which is a major relief from constantly peering at my phone and computer.
Why do you think it’s important to read and write about Canada’s place in the world?
Canadian authors are an important voice in this increasingly mad world.