This edited volume opens by describing a vast wilderness, populated by relatively few indigenous peoples, and concludes with a modern, highly developed nation. Chapters contributed by various scholars document the succession of change, though organization is not quite chronological. Instead, chapters are grouped into broad categories of "Bodies," "Technologies," and "Environments." Coverage of the interaction between the indigenous groups and the Hudson's Bay Company documents how the HBC provided firearms to these groups, which resulted in the loss of the indigenous peoples' hunting skills. The HBC opened up great stretches of the wilderness. The forest area was enormous, lending itself to exploration. Eventually selective crop breeding, soil conservation. and modern genetics all played a role in transforming the wilds into something tamer. Also interesting is a discussion of the advent of dial telephones and the Canadian populations' gradual acclimation to using the phone without an operator. The last major change discussed is the development of the St. Lawrence Seaway and Power Project, a joint effort of Canada and the US, an important partnership. A fascinating volume, well worth reading by anyone interested in Canada and the history of science. Summing Up: Recommended. All levels.

--F. W. Yow, emeritus, Kenyon College

Francis W. Yow

emeritus, Kenyon College