Canada Institute Director David N. Biette and David M. Thomas have edited a new book, Canada and the United States: Differences that Count (4th edition). The book investigates why and how the United States and Canada—while so close and seemingly so similar—remain different in so many ways. In 17 analytical yet readable chapters, leading authorities look at the American and the Canadian ways of doing things. The questions they address affect us all in ways great and small: as citizens, as students, and as policymakers. Our similarities and our differences are not always as we have assumed them to be, and this volume helps us learn from one another's experiences.

The fourth edition features new chapters on taxation, revenues, and budgets; health care; banking and financial regulation; legislatures; foreign policy; prime ministers and presidents; and state-province comparisons. Every chapter has been updated to take into consideration major developments and changes since the third edition, including the economic meltdown of 2008, changing electoral outcomes, new census data, and new policy directions in both countries—especially concerning health care and the environment.

Here is a review by Daniyal Zuberi from University of Toronto:

In the tradition of Seymour Martin Lipset, the fourth edition of Canada and the United States comprehensively compares the political, economic, and social differences between the two countries. With a careful exploration of the ever-shifting demographics, values, and governance structures, the book presents a wealth of insights based on comparative analysis. Bringing together the contributions of leading experts, it represents an updated and valuable resource for scholars, students, and others hoping to better understand the US and Canada.               

Read more about or purchase the book on the University of Toronto Press website.