Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: April 30, 1992
• Invested on: October 21, 1992

One of Canada's most famous emigrÚ writers, and now Professor Emeritus at Erindale College, the University of Toronto, he overcame many obstacles in his native land to emerge as an internationally recognized author. His knowledge of music, history and art serves as the background against which he has synthesized his native and adoptive cultures in his novels, essays and short stories. He has also published other Czech writers, allowing their voices to be heard around the world.