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My Journey
Olivia Chow—Member of Parliament, seasoned politician and widow of former New Democratic Party leader Jack Layton—tells her story in this candid memoir
What drives Olivia Chow? How did she emerge from a turbulent childhood to become an inspiring political force? What influences and events have shaped her life? And how is she continuing her quest after losing her partner in life and politics?
When she was thirteen, Olivia’s middle-class family moved from Hong Kong to Toronto, but the transition was difficult. Her mother went from having a maid to being a maid. Her father failed to carve out a working life for himself in Canada—frustrated and bitter, he lashed out at Olivia’s mother and violence darkened their lives. A rebellious yet playful child, Olivia discovered self-discipline and became an excellent student in Canada, studying fine art and philosophy at university. After graduating, Olivia worked for a time as a sculptor. Then, driven by a desire to achieve social change, the artist became an activist, and she launched her political career.
As a popular and much-admired school trustee and Toronto city councillor—the first Asian woman in that role—Olivia honed a grassroots approach and crafted progressive programs that enhanced the lives of others, especially children. Strong-willed, focused and passionate, Olivia got things done by bringing together people from all parts of the political spectrum.
In the mid-1980s, Olivia met Jack Layton. Their dynamic partnership, unprecedented in Canadian political life, made a powerful impact in Toronto, and on the national stage. Together, they forged a strong vision for a better country and for enlightened political change. But when her beloved partner and political soulmate died in the summer of 2011, how did she find the strength to move forward? What might we learn from her inspiring story? Those answers are here, in My Journey.
What drives Olivia Chow? How did she emerge from a turbulent childhood to become an inspiring political force? What influences and events have shaped her life? And how is she continuing her quest after losing her partner in life and politics?
When she was thirteen, Olivia’s middle-class family moved from Hong Kong to Toronto, but the transition was difficult. Her mother went from having a maid to being a maid. Her father failed to carve out a working life for himself in Canada—frustrated and bitter, he lashed out at Olivia’s mother and violence darkened their lives. A rebellious yet playful child, Olivia discovered self-discipline and became an excellent student in Canada, studying fine art and philosophy at university. After graduating, Olivia worked for a time as a sculptor. Then, driven by a desire to achieve social change, the artist became an activist, and she launched her political career.
As a popular and much-admired school trustee and Toronto city councillor—the first Asian woman in that role—Olivia honed a grassroots approach and crafted progressive programs that enhanced the lives of others, especially children. Strong-willed, focused and passionate, Olivia got things done by bringing together people from all parts of the political spectrum.
In the mid-1980s, Olivia met Jack Layton. Their dynamic partnership, unprecedented in Canadian political life, made a powerful impact in Toronto, and on the national stage. Together, they forged a strong vision for a better country and for enlightened political change. But when her beloved partner and political soulmate died in the summer of 2011, how did she find the strength to move forward? What might we learn from her inspiring story? Those answers are here, in My Journey.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 21, 2014
15 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 26, 2014
I've read some critical reviews of this memoir, basically saying that Olivia has an agenda in writing it or that she doesn't construct a good narrative. I would have to disagree with the negative response and say I really liked reading this memoir. It met my expectations for a memoir of a politician -- it's not going to win any literary prizes and it does have a clear political slant, but that's what you're expecting when you pick up this book, right?
For me, it was inspiring to read about the initiatives that Olivia has been involved in during her years as a politician and learn more about her causes. She talks a lot about Toronto. It fired me up to see the potential of our city and made me want to get more involved! One of the key messages that came out of this memoir was the deep passion that Olivia has for the city of Toronto and its residents. I'm glad she shared her story.
For me, it was inspiring to read about the initiatives that Olivia has been involved in during her years as a politician and learn more about her causes. She talks a lot about Toronto. It fired me up to see the potential of our city and made me want to get more involved! One of the key messages that came out of this memoir was the deep passion that Olivia has for the city of Toronto and its residents. I'm glad she shared her story.
March 3, 2014
Ms. Chow's autobiography was vey interesting. She has lived a life that I never would have imagined for her. I recommend this book - it's very insightful and easy to read.
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July 30, 2015http://rabble.ca/books/reviews/2014/0...
Review by Cathy Crowe
When I think about Olivia Chow I always think about her seemingly endless energy and her infectious enthusiasm as she works with people on a huge array of social issues.
Olivia's memoir is aptly named My Journey. The only still moment in the book is the gorgeous picture of Olivia on the book's cover. Inside, we're taken on a journey with Olivia that takes us from Blue Pool Road in Hong Kong to her new home in Toronto as a 13 year old. We travel with her through her years growing up in St. Jamestown, studying at the Ontario College of Art and University of Guelph (it is not widely known that Olivia is an accomplished sculptor), working with new immigrants and teaching at George Brown College. We journey with her through a groundbreaking political career: constituency worker in MP Dan (Don) Heap's office, elected school trustee at the age of 28, first Asian woman elected as a Toronto city councillor and then to Ottawa as a Member of Parliament. Throughout the journey there is also swimming, cycling (sometimes on a bicycle built for two), running, kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting and numerous meetings -- many at her own dining room table.
Toronto is at the heart of this book and clearly Toronto is in Olivia's heart. Its presence is felt through her telling of significant moments in her life. Standing on the steps of the Toronto Chinese Baptist Church, she looks across to Grange Park, reflecting on the relationship between church and community, as she remembers the rain-soaked day that she attended her first political rally in 1979 for 'Vietnamese boat people,' in that very park. There are vivid and poignant descriptions of Toronto's waterfront and Toronto Island -- from the homeless encampments of Rooster Squat and Tent City on a polluted and barren waterfront to the meadow on Toronto Island where she married her beloved Jack Layton.
In many ways the book is an antidote to dismay, despair or disengagement that many might experience today as we contemplate the political climate or the role of politics and politicians. It was for me.
Read more here: http://rabble.ca/books/reviews/2014/0...
Review by Cathy Crowe
When I think about Olivia Chow I always think about her seemingly endless energy and her infectious enthusiasm as she works with people on a huge array of social issues.
Olivia's memoir is aptly named My Journey. The only still moment in the book is the gorgeous picture of Olivia on the book's cover. Inside, we're taken on a journey with Olivia that takes us from Blue Pool Road in Hong Kong to her new home in Toronto as a 13 year old. We travel with her through her years growing up in St. Jamestown, studying at the Ontario College of Art and University of Guelph (it is not widely known that Olivia is an accomplished sculptor), working with new immigrants and teaching at George Brown College. We journey with her through a groundbreaking political career: constituency worker in MP Dan (Don) Heap's office, elected school trustee at the age of 28, first Asian woman elected as a Toronto city councillor and then to Ottawa as a Member of Parliament. Throughout the journey there is also swimming, cycling (sometimes on a bicycle built for two), running, kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting and numerous meetings -- many at her own dining room table.
Toronto is at the heart of this book and clearly Toronto is in Olivia's heart. Its presence is felt through her telling of significant moments in her life. Standing on the steps of the Toronto Chinese Baptist Church, she looks across to Grange Park, reflecting on the relationship between church and community, as she remembers the rain-soaked day that she attended her first political rally in 1979 for 'Vietnamese boat people,' in that very park. There are vivid and poignant descriptions of Toronto's waterfront and Toronto Island -- from the homeless encampments of Rooster Squat and Tent City on a polluted and barren waterfront to the meadow on Toronto Island where she married her beloved Jack Layton.
In many ways the book is an antidote to dismay, despair or disengagement that many might experience today as we contemplate the political climate or the role of politics and politicians. It was for me.
Read more here: http://rabble.ca/books/reviews/2014/0...
March 26, 2017
Compassionate and selfless, Ms.Chow has devoted her entire political career to fighting for social justice and giving power to the voiceless. It is through reading this book that I have come to realize that many of the rights and services we enjoy in Toronto and often take for granted (such as services for immigrants, inclusionary policies at schools, affordable daycare etc.) are the culmination of years of strenuous efforts made by Ms.Chow, who incessantly pushed for these policies to be instituted in her years as a school trustee, a city councillor, and later an MP. An advocate of participatory democracy and social equality, she actively engaged marginalized groups (youths, single mothers, immigrants, LGBT communities) and ensured that these groups would have equal access to opportunities as the rest of the population.
As a side note, her love story with Jack Layton is probably one of the most romantic. In the wake of Jack Layton's death, Ms.Chow displayed remarkable mental strength and inner fortitude. She carried on her husband's legacy and continued to strive for social change. Most importantly, however, this book is about her struggle, her vision and her journey, independent of her husband's. Ms.Chow is a social democrat, a community leader and a revolutionary unquestionably deserving of a memoir of her own - and I'm glad she did write one.
As a side note, her love story with Jack Layton is probably one of the most romantic. In the wake of Jack Layton's death, Ms.Chow displayed remarkable mental strength and inner fortitude. She carried on her husband's legacy and continued to strive for social change. Most importantly, however, this book is about her struggle, her vision and her journey, independent of her husband's. Ms.Chow is a social democrat, a community leader and a revolutionary unquestionably deserving of a memoir of her own - and I'm glad she did write one.
July 14, 2014
I'm not political at all. I don't know the differences between the political parties and tend to vote for the one who seems to me like a good person.
Chow was the member of Parliament in our riding (Trinity-Spadina) since 2006 before she quit to run for the mayor of Toronto. Her stepson, Mike Layton, represents our riding (Ward 19) on the Toronto City Council.
I think that our current mayor, Rob Ford, is an A-hole, liar and bully ... needless to say, he won't be getting my vote! The mayoral election is coming up soon and I thought this book would be a good way to get to know Chow, one of the frontrunners.
She was born into middle-class in Hong Kong. Her family moved to Toronto when she was 13. Her parents were well-educated and had good jobs in Hong Kong. This wasn't the case when they moved to Canada. Her mother became a maid in a hotel and her father was unable to find a job and he took his frustrations physically and emotionally out on this wife.
Chow's upbringing and experiences drove her to work for change for immigrants, children, the elderly, spending tax payers' money wisely, etc. She eventually got into politics starting as a school trustee and working her way to being a member of Parliament. Along the way, she met and married Jack Layton, who eventually became the leader of the NDP party.
This book details her career and accomplishments, her life with Layton and her life after he died in 2011. She seems to be a caring person who will fight hard for what she believes in.
I like bios and I liked this book. It gave me a good insight on who she is and the workings of politics. I think what was missing, though, were pictures ... there weren't any and it would have been nice to see some since it's a bio.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2014/07...
Chow was the member of Parliament in our riding (Trinity-Spadina) since 2006 before she quit to run for the mayor of Toronto. Her stepson, Mike Layton, represents our riding (Ward 19) on the Toronto City Council.
I think that our current mayor, Rob Ford, is an A-hole, liar and bully ... needless to say, he won't be getting my vote! The mayoral election is coming up soon and I thought this book would be a good way to get to know Chow, one of the frontrunners.
She was born into middle-class in Hong Kong. Her family moved to Toronto when she was 13. Her parents were well-educated and had good jobs in Hong Kong. This wasn't the case when they moved to Canada. Her mother became a maid in a hotel and her father was unable to find a job and he took his frustrations physically and emotionally out on this wife.
Chow's upbringing and experiences drove her to work for change for immigrants, children, the elderly, spending tax payers' money wisely, etc. She eventually got into politics starting as a school trustee and working her way to being a member of Parliament. Along the way, she met and married Jack Layton, who eventually became the leader of the NDP party.
This book details her career and accomplishments, her life with Layton and her life after he died in 2011. She seems to be a caring person who will fight hard for what she believes in.
I like bios and I liked this book. It gave me a good insight on who she is and the workings of politics. I think what was missing, though, were pictures ... there weren't any and it would have been nice to see some since it's a bio.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2014/07...
March 24, 2014
3.5 stars, rounded up.
I have great admiration for Olivia Chow as a political figure and social activist rolled into one package. It's easy for those who know her as Jack Layton's spouse to forget about her own achievements and efforts, the ways she contributed to and complemented his success as surely as he contributed to her own. This book is a wonderful journey through her accomplishments and early childhood experiences that pushed her into the political sphere.
The thing is, it meanders from a frank and yet careful memoir in the beginning into more of a political resume and treatise mid-book, which is a shame. I know enough about Olivia to know she is fiercely private in many ways, but I really was hoping for more candid reflections of the experience of the woman behind the politician -- even more of the personal emotions connected to that life. Nothing super intrusive, just more... personal. Instead, the book is more a series of interconnected essays with the same formula: start with a political battle or accomplishment, track it from start to finish and make key life philosophy slash political viewpoints within it. The best moments are ones of sincere humanity: I found myself teary-eyed as Olivia recounted the passing of Layton in the final chapters, remembering my own experience of sitting inside Roy Thomson Hall and wondering what it would be to grieve publicly while I myself grieved my country's loss.
It's a worthy read for anyone interested in the work of a woman who has delved into areas of immigration, the school system, domestic violence and more, but walk in knowing you are reading a good 40% political treatise.
I have great admiration for Olivia Chow as a political figure and social activist rolled into one package. It's easy for those who know her as Jack Layton's spouse to forget about her own achievements and efforts, the ways she contributed to and complemented his success as surely as he contributed to her own. This book is a wonderful journey through her accomplishments and early childhood experiences that pushed her into the political sphere.
The thing is, it meanders from a frank and yet careful memoir in the beginning into more of a political resume and treatise mid-book, which is a shame. I know enough about Olivia to know she is fiercely private in many ways, but I really was hoping for more candid reflections of the experience of the woman behind the politician -- even more of the personal emotions connected to that life. Nothing super intrusive, just more... personal. Instead, the book is more a series of interconnected essays with the same formula: start with a political battle or accomplishment, track it from start to finish and make key life philosophy slash political viewpoints within it. The best moments are ones of sincere humanity: I found myself teary-eyed as Olivia recounted the passing of Layton in the final chapters, remembering my own experience of sitting inside Roy Thomson Hall and wondering what it would be to grieve publicly while I myself grieved my country's loss.
It's a worthy read for anyone interested in the work of a woman who has delved into areas of immigration, the school system, domestic violence and more, but walk in knowing you are reading a good 40% political treatise.
January 4, 2015
Olivia's journey is a remarkable one. She relates her challenges and triumphs in an open and authentic way. I am always amazed when such strong, successful women confess their history of abuse with partners. It makes me appreciate the complexity of human nature and our ability to transcend difficult times. Her deeply loving relationship with Jack Layton was tenderly portrayed. I would have appreciated more nuance, more telling of inner struggles and lessons from her more recent past. I hope she writes another memoir when the distance of time would allow her the ability for a deeper exploration.
April 13, 2015
I found this memoir very well written and a very interesting look at the politics of the 1980s, 1990s. I liked the fact she beautifully combined her personal story with political history and her own political beliefs and work (she is a politician after all). The story of her relationship with her husband Jack Layton was touching and brought some closure to a time of mourning that many Canadians shared. The story moved along well and was not dry or boring. Its nice to read memoris from strong, immigrant Canadian women and leaders and I would recomment this book highly to fans of Olivia's, the Canadian political scene and anyone else who wants an enjoyable well written Canadian memoir.
May 6, 2014
Olivia is an amazing woman, and this was a great book. For those who are saying that the book is too political, I would question why you chose to read a politician's autobiography if you were not interested in reading anything about politics. Jack Layton was the man who first inspired my interest in Canadian politics, and Olivia Chow's book has shown me that I can confidently support her as well. This book was a great read written by a passionate woman who knows and follows through on what she believes, and I wish Olivia the best of luck in the upcoming mayoral election in Toronto.
June 23, 2014
Good book so far. Love the spirit of Jack Layton and Olivia Chow, especially this quote: give voice to those who have little power and seek to improve everyone's quality of life. Hold firm to the principle of fairness. Do the work collaboratively, but never back down. Or, to use Jack's words, "Don't let them tell you it can't be done." By collective action, we can achieve social justice and change the world.
March 6, 2014
A memoir well worth reading. My only concern is that it could have done with a more thorough copyediting -- too many cases of the same or almost the same sentence and/or thought being repeated in different chapters.
March 28, 2014
3.5 stars. Very interesting and often moving. I had no idea what a difficult background she came from. She has been and still is on quite a 'journey'. An interesting read that gives a full picture of the person, not just the politician.
Want to read
January 22, 2014Saw her interviewed on Breakfast Televison this morning and would love to read her book.
February 6, 2014
The memoir was mainly devoted to her life in politics with her deceased husband. It became a tedious read with a recitation of their political beliefs and work. Was that all in life?
April 21, 2014
She is a smart dedicated woman. Works hard for the people. The book provides insight into the life of a politician and how she balances such a busy life . I enjoyed the read..
April 26, 2025
My Journey is now 11 years old and has been sitting on my shelf for that long, purchased after hearing her speak locally. Since Olivia became mayor of Toronto two years ago, I had been wanting to read this book. While we are in the throes of a Canadian federal election it was interesting to read this book and the history of the NDP rising to become the Opposition Party in the 2011 federal election - the first time ever under the leadership of Jack Layton, Olivia's husband. Unfortunately Jack died just months after the election. Both Olivia and Jack were for the people and this chronological history of their political activity was interesting. Jack was the initiator of the white ribbon campaign to protest violence against women that is now in 60 countries. They both believed in the community and working with the community to accept gay marriages, advance the pride movement in Toronto, workto engage youth, support the homeless etc etc. Both of their careers have been stellar.
'My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world.' written by Jack Layton - we could use this type of political today in every country.
Olivia was very forthright in her account of immigrating from Hong Kong when she was 13 and the struggles both her and her mother had with her father being abusive and having mental health issues. Olivia also was abused by a boyfriend. Not letting any of that deter her, by the age of 28 she was a Toronto school trustee, then a city councillor and then a member of parliament. She was voted Best City Councillor 7 times and Best MP in 2010 as well as top Torontonian in 2012.
'My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world.' written by Jack Layton - we could use this type of political today in every country.
Olivia was very forthright in her account of immigrating from Hong Kong when she was 13 and the struggles both her and her mother had with her father being abusive and having mental health issues. Olivia also was abused by a boyfriend. Not letting any of that deter her, by the age of 28 she was a Toronto school trustee, then a city councillor and then a member of parliament. She was voted Best City Councillor 7 times and Best MP in 2010 as well as top Torontonian in 2012.
August 21, 2019
For full disclosure, I didn't finish this book but there was no 'abandoned' option. For my book club, we had to read a biography and this one was of the options placed out for us at our local library. However, it is an autobiography and, although Olivia seems to be quite honest with her personal shortcomings, I am finding it a little more than slanted and it is not keeping my interest. In contrast, I picked up Andrea Merkel's biography and I am finding this book more interesting and objective. I do think I prefer a well researched biography to an autobiography.
January 4, 2022
I enjoyed this book immensely because it envoked so many memories of political campaigns and familiar Toronto landmarks. There were a few sad and raw details about Olivia's early life that made her all the more human and relatable.
I enjoyed learning the background and those responsible for the tandem bronze bike (which I had the pleasure of sitting on, most recently in November 2021) and the naming of the Ferry Terminal after Jack Layton.
An easy read filled with lots of political campaign organizing tips.
I enjoyed learning the background and those responsible for the tandem bronze bike (which I had the pleasure of sitting on, most recently in November 2021) and the naming of the Ferry Terminal after Jack Layton.
An easy read filled with lots of political campaign organizing tips.
January 2, 2025
An amazing individual, woman and politician. Olivia Chow has worked tirelessly in politics to champion the elimination of childhood poverty, homelessness and ensuring equality for all. A wonderful book to understand the importance of activism and volunteerism to better our communities for the future generations.
August 23, 2023
3.5. Interesting to hear more about the work that our now Mayor has accomplished. Also interesting to see what has and hasn’t changed 10 years later. You can tell this is written by a politician with hopes of not only getting re-elected, but moving up in the political world!
May 21, 2024
I enjoyed Olivia Chow's journey very much. Truly appreciate the anecdotes on her work at all levels of government. Highly recommended.
January 20, 2015
A strong womyn who builds a legacy for children, womyn, the poor, the disenfranchised and many others who have benefited from Olivia's dedication to the downtrodden.
Her journey has been one fraught with joy, sorrow, adventure, achievements, laughter and living life in the moment. Her story was interesting for this reader because I did not know of all Olivia's accomplishments in the east.
I learned about her life before Canada, her beginnings here, and her love affair with Jack Layton. I for one, think our country is a better place because of them.
Her journey has been one fraught with joy, sorrow, adventure, achievements, laughter and living life in the moment. Her story was interesting for this reader because I did not know of all Olivia's accomplishments in the east.
I learned about her life before Canada, her beginnings here, and her love affair with Jack Layton. I for one, think our country is a better place because of them.
February 16, 2014
I am not enamoured of autobiographies because I question how much truth can one write when there are people living who can question what you remember. I found the writing awkward and the time sequence misplaced at times. As I read, I felt that Olivia was portraying herself as a princess in a world that turns out to be pretty good.
March 18, 2014
Olivia Chow tended to be overshadowed by the exhuberance that was Jack Layton. This book showcases Chow's expertise and breadth of experience. She doesn't shy away from tough topics, although I would have liked to read more about the emotional impact of the political life. This book offers a good look into the world of politics. I came away with even more respect for a woman I already admired.
June 12, 2014
I have seen Olivia interviewed on several occasions and found her to be a very interesting person. To this end, I purchased this book. I enjoyed the family history part but found I got bogged down with dates, times and places in her political career. I skipped through the book hitting a few high points but didn't finish it.
September 6, 2016
The book contains a comprehensive overview of Olivia's life so far. However, I can't overcome the feeling that a good portion of the book was professionally written.
April 23, 2014
It was a very informative book. I liked it a lot.
October 7, 2014
Good politician's memoir. Can't wait to see the next chapter as mayor of Toronto.
May 19, 2016
Learned something new about her
September 1, 2025
Olivia Chow!!!! OLIVIA FUCKING CHOW. I cried when she talked about Jack Layton. Insightful, hopeful, genuine & beautifully written.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews