Why is British Columbia unique within Canada? What forces have shaped its landscape and its people? To answer these questions, Brett McGillivray adopts primarily a thematic approach. He begins by giving a regional overview and introduction to geographic concepts and the physical processes that produced a spectacularly diverse landscape. He then tackles different themes, tracing the province’s historical geography, offering detailed accounts of its economic geography, and discussing contemporary issues such as urbanization, economic development, and resource management. This fully revised edition is enhanced by updated figures, maps, and graphs and by new discussions of how globalization, climate change, and recession are influencing the province and its people.

Brett McGillivray's profile page

Brett McGillivray is professor emeritus in the Faculty of Geography at Capilano University, having taught the geography of British Columbia there for over thirty-six years. He continues to research issues on British Columbia and Canada, present lectures, and facilitate community-to-community meetings.

After reading this book, the reader will be well informed as to the major historical forces that have shaped British Columbia and the economic challenges confronting its future. It deserves to be read beyond the college geography textbook market.

American Review of Canadian Studies, Winter 2006

McGillivray has done a tremendous job ... This book is very well done, will make a valuable teaching resource, and deserves wide adoption.

The Canadian Geographer

A comprehensive, proficient, and intriguing geographic text ... McGillivray's book is excellent, and no one who teaches the geography of British Columbia should fail to give it serious consideration for adoption. The book fulfils its aim well; it suceeds in providing fascinating insights in to the human-environment relationships in British Columbia.

The Canadian Geographer