THE LEADERSHIP RACE THAT ROCKED THE NL LIBERAL PARTY
Engen Books Ltd. acquires Sonia B. Glover’s political memoir
August 24, 2021 - Coming winter 2022, Engen Books Ltd. is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Sonia B. Glover’s political memoir, detailing the indelible events surrounding the 2001 Newfoundland and Labrador Liberal leadership race that split the party in two.
Ms. Glover offers a brilliant first-hand account of John Efford’s leadership campaign as only a true insider could. From her position as Communications Lead, Ms. Glover had a front row seat to the highs and epic lows of one of the most memorable political races in the province’s history.
“In her personal account of the leadership race to replace Premier Brian Tobin, Ms. Glover has gifted our province with a true historical gem,” said Matthew LeDrew, founder of Engen Books Ltd. “This story will be a page-turner for any reader, regardless of political affiliation.”
A newcomer to the political scene at the time, Ms. Glover tells her story with an openness and honesty that takes a balanced approach to what was an explosive campaign. We are led through John Efford’s initial announcement and are with the campaign every step of the way, right up to the fateful events of the stormy convention weekend and through the fallout of the Liberal Party afterwards.
“I am so thrilled to be part of the Engen family and get to see my book published after many years of hard work, and a determination to share a fascinating story about my experience being part of one of the most divisive leadership contests in Newfoundland and Labrador’s political history as a member of John Efford’s inner circle,” said Ms. Glover. “A newbie to politics, I had no idea how dirty and dramatic a leadership contest could be, while also exciting at the same time. And I found myself stuck in the thick of it. It was an emotional political rollercoaster. I hope that people will find my book as captivating to read as it was for me to experience it for real.”
With more than two decades of public relations experience in both the public and private sectors, Ms. Glover’s deep understanding of communications and her attention to detail are ever present in her writing.
“Despite the passage of time, Ms. Glover’s vivid descriptions bring to life the events of the 2001 campaign,” added LeDrew. “The reader will feel as though they are present at every campaign stop and in the room during every closed-door meeting. You can practically hear the band play from the convention floor.”
Through its non-fiction division, Engen Books Ltd. aims to add to the diversity of narratives about the culture and history of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Contact Information:
Amanda Labonte
Nonfiction Editor
Engen Books Ltd.
E-mail: submissions@engenbooks.com
Biography - Sonia B. Glover
Sonia B. Glover is a public relations professional and has worked in senior levels of the provincial and federal governments and with the private sector for over 25 years. In her earlier career, she worked as a journalist for newsprint and radio. Ms. Glover’s first book, “Coping with Crohn’s – The Pain & The Laughter” was published in 2007. Giving back to the community is an important part of Ms. Glover’s life. Her many accolades include the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal awarded in 2012 in recognition of her steadfast volunteerism.
Ms. Glover is an avid gardener, animal lover and a proud volunteer. She practices an attitude of gratitude and takes pleasure in life’s little things. Born in Gander, NL and raised in Hare Bay, Ms. Glover has made St. John’s her home for the past 30 years. She lives with her husband Paul Sullivan and their treasured Ragdoll cats – Mia and Marley.