Publisher's Synopsis
From Abbey SK to Zurich ON, this unique dictionary includes over 6,200 Canadian place names. Canada's diversity is marked not just by geography; this richness is reflected in names of cities, villages, rivers, lakes, mountains, and parks. And the names reflect a range of languages including Cree, Inuit, French, Gaelic, Spanish, Portuguese, Mi'kmaq, and Basque. Alan Rayburn's witty and highly readable entries reveals the origins of these names--from local history to military events to bizarre geographical features. An important reference handbook, a fascinating tour guide, and a history of the of the local all in one, this intruiging dictionary uncovers a great deal about Canada's cultural and linguistic heritage. A book that remains as full of surprises as ever (Canada narrowly escaped being named Acadia, Borealia, or Transatlantica, for example), this new book updates the successful first edition.