I loved reading this book. I've lived on the Sunshine Coast [the one in Canada, just North and West of Vancouver BC] for the last 5 years, and many of the questions I've had about this place are addressed by this book.
The first chapter tells the geological story of the Coast: how did the granite get mixed up with other rock; when did the glaciers come through, what did they do; volcanoes here and in the Ring of Fire. I read this chapter to my sister, and not only did we understand what was being described, but the writing was beautiful.
Many of us who live beside the Sechelt and Squamish First Nations will be the richer for reading the brief, but useful, description of the lives lived both before and after 'contact.' In addition the chapter about the mapping of the Coast and the naming of the places by Europeans who did not yet know all the names given their traditional territories by the First Nations is very helpful to the new resident trying to figure out what is where.
Keller & Leslie have scoured their sources for the history they lay before their readers. You will understand thoroughly how logging came to the Coast, and who did what to where. Don't feel like you will be daunted by all the lot numbers. You need not remember them, just remember that if you are trying to sort out what happened in a valley somewhere in the mountains, or on the waterfront in Halfmoon Bay, that number might help you out.
You'll read about each of the resources that have been a part of the economic story of the Coast, and you'll learn more about the people who have lived here. Residents and visitors all play a role in the development of the Coast. The people who owned and operated ships and tugs have always been important to the Coast - for it has always been the case that one travels here only by water. And the goods that have left here have been taken from the water and shipped elsewhere, as well as taken from the land and shipped, or boomed up and towed away.
This will be a valuable book to have in your home, whether your visitors come to a cottage or B&B, or as family and friends to your home from near and far. If you want to be able to tell the stories yourself, read this book. Otherwise, make sure it's on the coffee table, or beside the guest room bed.
