Pursuing a Public Life

I’ve seen firsthand how disengaged our generation feels from democratic life. This book meets that disengagement head on — with empathy, realism, and, crucially, with encouragement. Marchi calls us into politics. He shows us how to survive it, how to lead, and why it still matters. Pursuing a Public Life should be in classrooms, campaign offices, and caucus retreats. More importantly, it should sit on the desk of any young Canadian wondering, “Could I do this?” Sergio Marchi’s answer — firm, honest, and inspiring — is “Yes. And here’s how.

Jaden Braves, CEO, Young Politicians of Canada

A welcome call to action for young Canadians to impact positive change. A recommended read for political science students and advocates from all arenas!

Christina Caouette, CEO, Young Diplomats of Canada

Sergio Marchi’s Pursuing a Public Life is not just a powerful plea to young Canadians to pursue public service; it’s also a step-by-step plan to guide them. Marchi eloquently makes the case for public service as a noble and important calling. If young Canadians don’t step up, who will protect and advance Canada’s interests in the uncertain decades ahead?

Terry Fallis, two-time winner of the Stephen Leacock Medal for Humour

At a time when trust in politics is being tested, Sergio Marchi offers a timely and powerful reminder that public service — rooted in integrity and purpose — still matters deeply. More than a memoir, this book is a call to action for those ready to serve Canada with courage, compassion, and vision.

Hon. Melanie Joly, minister of innovation, science, and industry

Based on more than two decades in politics, this book is a must-read for a new generation of Canadians. Western democracy, too often suffering from apathy and a loss of confidence, is only as strong as the people involved in politics. Canada needs a new generation to step up and get involved. Sergio Marchi’s book will spur those who read it to do exactly that.

Hon. Michael Chong, Conservative MP

Sergio has written an excellent book, spelling out the essential steps that young Canadians must take to successfully enter and stay in politics. It’s a most valuable guide for newcomers, and I can attest to the fact that he has covered all the bases.

Hon. Francois-Philippe Champagne, minister of finance and national revenue

At a time of growing cynicism about government and public service, Sergio Marchi offers a tour de force on why young people in Canada and elsewhere should aspire to serve the public good. Drawing on his rich and unique life experience inside the public sector and beyond, this book is a must read for young adults who are potentially interested in government service, and for anyone who cares about the future of Canada and democratic society.

Gregory T. Chin, professor of political science, York University

I always told my staff that I admired those who made the commitment to public life. Sergio Marchi was one of those people. In his book, the son of immigrant parents talks about giving back to one’s community, and in the case of his family, giving back to a new welcoming country. Sergio underscores how important it is to “pass it on,” from one generation to the next, ensuring the future of our democracy and our institutions.

Rt. Hon. Jean Chrétien, former prime minister of Canada

Sergio’s political acumen and understanding of Canada’s diversity make his writings definitely worth a read. His national and international political experience, coupled with his years in the backrooms, give Sergio a unique perspective on Canada’s past and future. This book is a must read for anyone interested in politics and public policy.

Hon. Sheila Copps, former Liberal MP and minister

Read this engaging book for the anecdotes and stories. And learn from this helpful book, by internalizing the 78 lessons.

Mel Cappe, former clerk of the Privy Council

I loved Sergio’s book! We share a few biographical threads — sons of immigrants, elected at 28, cabinet ministers by 32. But today, cynicism about politics runs deep, and trust in government, science, and institutions is alarmingly low. Sergio’s passionate defence of public service, paired with his practical roadmap for political life, is a timely reminder that our current fragility isn’t inevitable and change is still possible.

on. Glen Clark, former premier of British Columbia

Sergio Marchi strongly believes that democracy can only survive and flourish if citizens understand and participate in public life. His book is an eloquent call to action and a detailed map of how an individual can contribute to strengthening democracy’s sinews. His argument is convincing because he bases his beliefs on his own public service in political campaigns, as a cabinet minister, and as a leader in an international organization. Pursuing a Public Life is compulsory reading for anyone contemplating public service in Canada.

John English, former MP and co-chair, Canadian International Council

Sergio Marchi has written the book every aspiring politician should read. Honest, personal, and practical, Pursuing a Public Life is part memoir, part manual — offering candid insights into the challenges of political leadership and democratic service. Marchi does not romanticize political life, but he makes a compelling case that politics can still be a force for good.

Stephen Azzi, professor of political management, history, and political science, Carleton University

Sergio Marchi has written a terrific guide to politics based on his decades long experience as a member of parliament, distinguished minister, and creative ambassador. If you are keen to understand or participate in the political process, this candid and insightful book is a must read.

Peter Harder, senator and former deputy minister

Part political memoir, part how-to book, Pursuing a Public Life is filled with lessons in life and politics that are sure to appeal to anyone interested in Canadian politics.

Alex Marland, professor, Jarislowsky chair in Trust and Political Leadership, Acadia University

Anybody considering public office would do well to keep Sergio Marchi’s Pursuing a Public Life by their bedside for continual reading and reflection. This is an “all you need to know” book about entering and surviving politics, winning election campaigns, serving in cabinet and on the world stage, and improving Canadians’ quality of life. Sergio Marchi has distilled his long, successful, fascinating, and often funny career experiences down to 78 hard-won lessons that will inspire not just those considering a life in politics but also those already in office.

ichael Marzolini, founder, Pollara Strategic Insights

Sergio Marchi has been a long-time mentor. His political experience has been a tremendous guide to me. This book — part memoir, part life lessons — will benefit many who are considering public service through politics. Pursuing a Public Life is a practical guide to politics distilled from Marchi’s experiences, which have helped Canada become an even better country.

Yasir Naqvi, Liberal MP and former attorney general for Ontario

For those who aspire to a life in politics but don’t know where to start or what to expect, Sergio Marchi has now furnished a detailed roadmap. Drawing upon his own distinguished career in high office, Marchi provides an absorbing account of political life, including tips on campaigning and insights on the art of governing. Filled with fascinating anecdotes and enriched by practical “lessons” along the way, Marchi’s book is a unique contribution to the literature and is bound to become the “go to” handbook for candidates and pundits alike.

Hon. Allan Rock, former MP, minister, and ambassador

In these stormy, uncertain times, Canada urgently needs to attract our very best into public service. Sergio Marchi’s unique and timely book recounts his life in politics and draws upon his personal experience to offer practical lessons for a new generation of Canadians starting public life.

Hon. Perrin Beatty, former Conservative MP and minister

I loved Sergio’s book! We share a few biographical threads — sons of immigrants, elected at 28, cabinet ministers by 32. But today, cynicism about politics runs deep, and trust in government, science, and institutions is alarmingly low. Sergio’s passionate defence of public service, paired with his practical roadmap for political life, is a timely reminder that our current fragility isn’t inevitable and change is still possible.

Hon. Glen Clark, former premier of British Columbia

Anybody considering public office would do well to keep Sergio Marchi’s Pursuing a Public Life by their bedside for continual reading and reflection. This is an “all you need to know” book about entering and surviving politics, winning election campaigns, serving in cabinet and on the world stage, and improving Canadians’ quality of life. Sergio Marchi has distilled his long, successful, fascinating, and often funny career experiences down to 78 hard-won lessons that will inspire not just those considering a life in politics but also those already in office.

Michael Marzolini, founder, Pollara Strategic Insights