Sir John A. Macdonald -- Canada's first prime minister and Father of Confederation -- a politician and a lawyer; a husband, father, and son; a rascal, prankster, and notorious tippler. There have been many books about Sir John but none like this.

From humble family dinners to elaborate political galas, from tragic losses to dizzying triumphs, Lindy Mechefske leads us through Macdonald's life and the culinary history of a nation. Marvel -- or shudder -- at the food available to hopeful immigrants on the high seas as the Macdonald family leaves Scotland for a fresh start in the New World. Celebrate the young John A.'s marriage while learning about popular wedding foods of the era. Learn how a roast duck dinner saved the dominion and take a seat at the Charlottetown Conference and indulge in fried oysters. Along the way, try your hand at authentic recipes sourced from cookbooks of the day.

Sir John's Table is a unique look at the life of Sir John A. Macdonald through the lens of Canada's culinary past.