A man of 90 years, eyes still clear with memories of a privileged childhood won by a courageous grandfather who came to Canada from Scotland in 1859 to find his fortune in the Upper Ottawa Valley wilderness. Then came the Great Depression, a move from the family home and farms to a log cabin, the premature death of a beloved father, the brave example of a teacher mother. A boy with a brilliant mind is forced to join his older brothers on the railroad to earn an education for younger siblings.

When World War II began Ed was consumed with a terrible rage. He volunteered for the airforce. Later, as an inspired raconteur, he fed to his great grandchildren tales of the Valley from 1857-2003. One very young grandchild says, “Great Grampa is someone who makes your face light up and all the bad things in you mind diminish when you hear that you are going to visit him. I can’t believe how strong and proud he is.”

Ed Dunlop’s story is an inspiring one, full of true pathos and courage which results in a rich and beautiful heritage. Full of humorous incident and fascinating tales, it brings both laughter and tears to the reader. A unique Canadian.