Encyclopedia of Newfoundland and Labrador, Vol. 3

R.G. Moyles is a professor of English at the University of Alberta.

Though Joey Smallwood is dead and gone, his spirit still presides over
this vast enterprise and is making sure that his dream of compiling a
comprehensive encyclopedia of Newfoundland affairs will not die. This,
the third volume, will, we are assured, be followed in 1993 by Vol. 4
and in 1994 by the final volume. The dedication of the Smallwoodites who
have worked on this project is to be commended; the whole venture is
indeed worthwhile and is a true compendium of Newfoundland history and
culture. Like the first two volumes, this one has wit and charm, mainly
because the entries are prepared by individuals who enjoyed their work
and love their island. It has a thoroughly professional look, because
its editors have taken care to be comprehensive and accurate; and there
is an abundance of illustration to make it appealing to even the
unwilling reader. From Newfoundland’s participation in the “Imperial
War Cabinet,” to a description of “Kaipokok Bay,” to an overview
of Newfoundland “Literature,” to a sketch of “Farley Mowat,”
this volume takes the reader on an alphabetical journey (from Hu to M)
through Newfoundland’s past—a journey that may be taken in brief
consultative spurts or as a prolonged and more enjoyable excursion.
Either way, it is a journey well worth the money.