Former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland is set to release a new book titled “Unreliable Boyfriend: An Insider’s View of Dealing with a Chaotic Superpower, Plutocrats, and Other Complicated People” on October 13. Published by Simon & Schuster Canada, the book delves into Freeland’s transition from journalism to federal politics, offering insights into power dynamics, diplomacy, and the Canada-U.S. relationship.
The book’s title stems from a remark Freeland made on “Real Time With Bill Maher” earlier this year, characterizing the U.S. as an unreliable partner. Freeland expressed that the book is a reflection on power, democracy, and the evolving landscape of international relations in an era of shifting norms.
In “Unreliable Boyfriend,” Freeland blends investigative reporting, personal anecdotes, and thoughtful analysis to dissect America’s changing role in the global arena. Nicole Winstanley, the publisher and president of Simon & Schuster Canada, commended Freeland’s unique perspective, highlighting the book’s relevance in today’s political climate.
Jonathan Karp, the book’s editor, praised Freeland’s journalistic acumen, underscoring her ability to provide readers with an intimate look at the complexities of power dynamics. Prior to her resignation from parliament in January 2026, Freeland held prominent positions in the Canadian government, notably as deputy prime minister and finance minister, and played a pivotal role in negotiating the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
Apart from her upcoming book, Freeland is known for her previous literary works such as “Sale of the Century: Russia’s Wild Ride from Communism to Capitalism” and “Plutocrats: The Rise of the New Global Super-Rich and the Fall of Everyone Else.” These books have garnered recognition, with “Plutocrats” winning prestigious awards like the Lionel Gelber Prize and the National Business Book Award.
Currently, Freeland serves as a resident fellow at Harvard’s Institute of Politics and is slated to assume the role of CEO at the Rhodes Trust, an educational charity based in Oxford, in July. A biography titled “Chrystia: From Peace River to Parliament Hill,” penned by Toronto journalist Catherine Tsalikis and published by House of Anansi Press, was released in 2024.