Tom Jokinen is a Canadian writer and former radio producer known for his exploration of unconventional subjects. His most notable work, "Curtains," chronicles his experiences as an apprentice undertaker at a Winnipeg funeral home, offering a firsthand account of North American death practices. Prior to his literary career, Jokinen spent decades as a producer for the Canadian Broadcasting Corp., contributing to programs such as "Morningside," "Counterspin with Avi Lewis," and "Definitely Not the Opera."
With a diverse professional background spanning journalism, medicine, and even railroad operations, Jokinen brings a unique perspective to his writing. His medical school training at the University of Toronto, where he dissected human cadavers before leaving the program, informs his nuanced approach to mortality in "Curtains." The book blends personal narrative with cultural observation, reflecting Jokinen's career-long interest in challenging societal norms through storytelling. He currently lives in Ottawa with his wife.