McGill: A Celebration

by Witold Rybczynski

Told in ten parts by prominent Montreal writers and distinguished graduates, the story of McGill unfolds with anecdotal charm and insightful overview. The lively text recaptures the spirit of campus life from the time of the university's beginnings and recounts the exploits and accomplishments of its grand personages and colourful figures. In addition, it explores McGill's significance and influence in the context of the community and country of which it is a part. More than one hundred specially commissioned, full-colour photographs illustrate this handsome, large-format volume, while rare archival shots provide a fascinating glimpse of early life at the university. The stunning photography includes images of campus life throughout the seasons by noted Montreal photographer George Zimbel, powerful architectural shots by David Duchow, exquisite, revealing interiors by Mark Ruwedel, and skilful photographs of memorable McGill treasures by Pierre Charrier. Anyone who was ever a part of the McGill experience will find McGill: A Celebration informative, charming, and captivating -- some very special memories will be rekindled. For others not so fortunate, it will go a long way toward making up what was missed.

211 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1991

About the author

Witold Rybczynski was born in Edinburgh, of Polish parentage, raised in London, and attended Jesuit schools in England and Canada. He studied architecture at McGill University in Montreal, where he also taught for twenty years. He is currently the Martin and Margy Meyerson Professor of Urbanism at the University of Pennsylvania, where he also co-edits the Wharton Real Estate Review. Rybczynski has designed and built houses as a registered architect, as well as doing practical experiments in low-cost housing, which took him to Mexico, Nigeria, India, the Philippines, and China.

(From www.witoldrybczynski.com)