Honorary Degree Books 2009
Louise Arbour
One of only 165 living Companions of the Order of Canada, Louise Arbour served as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights from 2004 to 2008. A recipient of the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Four Freedoms Medal and the Peace Award from the World Federalists of Canada, she is recognized for her courage and tenacity in seeking the resolution of complex and long-standing conflicts. Arbour’s expertise in the areas of criminal procedure, criminal law, gender issues, civil liberties, and international human rights have earned her respect of human rights organizations around the world.
Heft, Caren. Martyr, Mercury and Rooster. Stevens Point: Arcadian Press and Sailor Boy Press, 2005.
Martyr, Mercury and Rooster
This beautifully produced artists' book is a series of three books on the subject of “ars moriendi” or “the art of dying”; each book deals with modern forms of death that visit a population. Martyr tells the story of the first Palestinian female bomber, Wafa Idris, who strapped a 22-pound belt bomb to her body and detonated it in a public space. The second book reveals how mercury has affected our daily lives, from the poisoning of our rivers to its release into the atmosphere by industrial burning of fossil fuels. Rooster tells a story about AIDS in Africa and how a young girl is raped by an HIV-positive, 62-year-old man because he believed that his blood would be purified through sex with a virgin. These poignant stories compel readers to think about the many different ways human rights are violated, but they also inspire us to stand against these abuses. An edition of 50 copies was printed on handmade paper. This copy is number 15. [N 7433.4 H44 A6 M37 2004]
His Highness the Aga Khan
An inspiring leader and humanitarian, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV is the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and the creator of the Aga Khan Development Network, a private international non-denominational development agency working in 30 countries to improve the lives of millions of the world's poorest people and to build a global culture of tolerance. Personifying the ecumenical spirit that links three monotheistic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—the Aga Khan is a strong voice of reason in the challenging quest to promote mutual understanding between the Islamic world and the West and a global activist for civilized humanity and universal values. The Aga Khan is a Knight Commander of the British Empire and an Honorary Companion of the Order of Canada.
Allix, Susan. Colours of Persia.
London: Susan Allix, 2007.
Colours of Persia
This opulent artists' book is a visual feast. The artist wanted to share her fascination with Persia, so she compiled various comments, descriptions, and remarks from the travel writings of Ibn Battuta (1304–1368?), Sir John Chardin (1643–1713), Sir Robert Ker Porter (1777–1842), and others. All of the written selections pay homage to Persia’s great beauty, from the dishes encrusted with colourful stones and the infinite variety of embroidered silk, to the decorative brickwork and intricate patches of colour on its architecture. The book is arranged under the headings of five cities: Tehran, Mashad, Yazd, Shiraz, and Isfahan. A different typeface was selected for each author. The book is copiously illustrated with 26 prints, which include a beautiful assortment of hand-coloured etchings and linocuts. Architectural shapes inspired the book’s design, and the lovely binding features inlaid leather in cobalt blue, yellow, and natural goatskin. The book was hand set and printed on handmade paper in a limited edition of only 25 copies. This is number 18. [N 7433.4 A45 A6 C65 2007 folio]
Dr Yves Fouron
Yves Fouron, University of Alberta alumnus, is a pioneering chemist, entrepreneur, and consultant in the biotechnology and life sciences industries and has played key roles in commercializing research advances originating in universities in Canada, Europe, and the US over the past 20 years. Those advances include safer blood typing reagents, a new drug for the treatment of osteosarcoma, and new drugs for asthma and insomnia.
Hémon, Louis. Maria Chapdelaine. Paris: Éditions Mornay, 1933.
Maria Chapdelaine
Louis Hémon’s (1880–1913) classic novel has been adapted in numerous formats, including plays, radio-novels, televised series, and illustrated novels. Remarkably, Maria Chapdelaine has also been translated into dozens of languages, and more than 200 editions have been published since it first appeared in 1916. It is a spellbinding tale of Maria’s survival in rural Quebec, where she must decide how to carry on after the untimely death of her mother. This limited edition was illustrated by one of Canada's great artists, Clarence Gagnon (1881–1942), whose signature appears on the half title. This gorgeous volume, housed in a handsome slipcase, features a splendid design binding and goffered top edge of a maple tree and leaves. This copy is no. 56 of 100 copies printed on Japan paper. [PS 9465 E54 M3 1933]
Dr Michael R. Hayden
One of Canada's more prominent clinical geneticists, Michael Hayden is a Killam Professor of Medical Genetics at the University of British Columbia and Canada Research Chair in Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine. He is best known for his work on Huntington's disease. An elected member of the Royal Society of Canada, Hayden received a lifetime achievement award from the Huntington Society of Canada in 2001, a career achievement award from the BC Innovation Council in 2006, and the Prix Galien in 2007.
Bacon, Francis. The Tvvoo Bookes of Francis Bacon, of the Proficience and Aduancement of Learning, Diuine and Humane. London: Henrie Tomes, 1605.
The Tvvoo Bookes of Francis Bacon, of the Proficience and Aduancement of Learning, Diuine and Humane
This first edition of Francis Bacon’s (1561–1626) eloquent philosophical work was inspired by his deep concern for the future of human discovery and knowledge. Bacon wrote many philosophical works, but he was also a keen scientist and advocate of the scientific revolution. The first of the two books advances the argument that “learning doth make the minds of men gentle,” whereas “ignorance makes them churlish.” The second book makes an assessment of contemporary human knowledge, and it is here that Bacon boldly calls upon King James I to consider reforming Britain’s institutions of learning. This copy is bound in vellum; the title page has a printed dedication to the King. [B 1192 T97]
Jay Ingram
Jay Ingram is a renowned science broadcaster who co-hosts the Discovery Channel’s Daily Planet. He also has a weekly science column in the Toronto Star, has written articles for Owl and Equinox magazines, and books for both adults and children, three of which won Canadian Science Writers’ Awards. Ingram received a distinguished alumni award from the University of Alberta in 1996, and he became a member of the Order of Canada in 2009.
Pritchard, Andrew. The Microscopic Cabinet of Selected Animated Objects. London: Whittaker, Treacher, and Arnot, 1832.
The Microscopic Cabinet of Selected Animated Objects
Andrew Pritchard was an optician by trade who wrote several books on microscopy. This work combines practical and technical advice with commentary on the results and organisms studied and, as indicated in the subtitle, "a description of the jewel and doublet microscope, test objects, &c." The added commentary by C. R. Goring, M.D. provides Memoirs on the Verification of Microscopic Phenomena, and an Exact Method of Appreciating the Quality of Microscopes and Engiscopes. Thirteen engraved plates are included of which ten are delicately hand-coloured. The book is bound in contemporary half-calf with marbled sides. [QH 277 P96]
Dianne and Irving Kipnes
Dianne and Irving Kipnes are long-standing Edmonton residents whose contributions to the arts, health care, and post secondary education represent outstanding commitments to community service and philanthropy. Diane is a respected psychologist and social worker with a private practice, and Irving, a U of A alumnus, is an innovative and successful entrepreneur. Their combined leadership of the Dianne and Irving Kipnes Foundation has provided essential support for diverse initiatives including school-lunch programs, cancer research, a new veterans' hospital, the Edmonton Jewish Community Centre, the Edmonton Opera, an endowed chair in development and finance in the Alberta School of Business, and a new Prostate Health Clinic at the U of A Hospital.
Edmonton: Alberta’s Capital City. Edmonton: Esdale Press and McDermid Engraving, 1914.
Edmonton: Alberta’s Capital City
When this copiously illustrated book was published, it recorded that Edmonton had a population of 72,615, free land in tributary districts, 140 miles of sidewalks, 26 banks and branches, 91 miles of sewer, and 25 hotels (“one costing $2,000,000”). The city’s statistics have certainly changed, but the spirit and ambition of its citizenry have not. The opening chapter documents many of the important events that transformed Edmonton from a small trading post on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River to a modern city of considerable size and importance. Numerous full-page photographs show how Edmonton’s progress was rapid and substantial; the photographs include everything from interior views of the Hudson’s Bay “departmental” store to scenes of modern threshing and plowing. [FC 3696.37 E22 1914]
The Honourable Kevin G. Lynch
Kevin Lynch was a key architect in Canada’s economic recovery in the mid 1990s. He served as the clerk of Canada’s Privy Council from 2006 to 2009, during which time he spearheaded the renewal of Canada’s public service and served as deputy minister to the prime minister. In May 2009 Lynch became a member of the Queen’s Privy Council.
Defoe, Daniel. Essays Upon Several Projects, or, Effectual Ways for Advancing the Interest of the Nation. London: Printed for Thomas Ballard, 1702.
Essays Upon Several Projects
Subtitled "Effectual Ways for Advancing the Interests of the Nation," this important book is Daniel Defoe’s first major work, and it quickly established his reputation as one of the most profound thinkers of his day. He was always a keen observer of social conditions, and his writings influenced contemporary social life and culture in remarkable ways. Originally printed in 1697, this exceedingly scarce volume is a 1702 re-issue of the original sheets with a new title page. [PR 3404 E83 1702]
Dr James G. March
James G. March, a professor emeritus at Stanford University, is internationally renowned for his groundbreaking work on organizational decision-making. Among numerous honours and awards in several disciplines and from several countries, he received the Aaron Wildavsky Award from the Public Society, the Herbert Simon Award from Laslo Raik College (Budapest), and the Distinguished Scholar Award from the Academy of Management. In 1995, he was made a Knight First Class in the Royal Norwegian (Olav V) Order of Merit, and, in 1999, he was made a Commander of the Order of the Lion in Finland.
Yeats, William Butler. Easter 1916.
Easter 1916
In the context of the First World War and the Easter Rising staged in Ireland against British rule, Yeats’s (1865–1939) patriotic verses were deeply personal but no less engaging politically. This scarce first edition of his landmark poem circulated discreetly in manuscript. It was also privately printed by Clement Shorter in an edition of only 25 copies for distribution among his friends. This copy, number two, is signed by Shorter. James G. March wrote a fascinating 2006 article that explores “Easter 1916” in the context of organizational management. His opening lines are beautifully crafted: “Poetry exposes momentary glitters of transcendent humanness in the beauty of a mind. Anything else is extra.” [PR 5904 E13 1916]
Dr Juliet McMaster
Juliet McMaster, professor emeritus, was the first PhD candidate in the English department and the Faculty of Arts and the first arts graduate hired as an assistant professor at the U of A. She was the first U of A faculty member to be awarded the highly distinguished Molson Prize. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, a Guggenheim Fellow, and the very first winner of our University Cup for distinction in teaching and research, McMaster is deeply committed to excellence in academic work.
Austen, Jane. Sense and Sensibility.
London: T. Egerton, 1811.
Sense and Sensibility
This first edition “triple-decker” was Jane Austen’s (1775–1817) first novel, published under the pseudonym “A Lady.” The first draft of the story was prepared around 1795 when it was called “Elinor and Marianne.” The novel follows two sisters with dramatically different personalities and is filled with romance and heartbreak. When the sisters eventually find love and happiness, the reader sees how they distinguish “sense” from “sensibility” in their romantic lives. This beautiful copy, featuring original marbled boards, is housed in a custom case. [PR 4034 S47 1811 v.1-3]
Dr Eliot A. Phillipson
Eliot Phillipson is a highly respected U of A alumnus who has received international recognition for his work as a respiratory physiologist. In 2004, he became the President and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation. Phillipson has been instrumental in persuading opinion leaders on the merits of investing in health research in Canada.
Cheyne, George. An Essay of Health and
Long Life. London: G. Strahan, 1725.
An Essay of Health and Long Life
This immensely popular polemic on the secrets of good health was published in numerous editions and is frequently cited as one of the classic works on ageing. Cheyne (1671–1743) was a pioneering physician who became grossly overweight and suffered from numerous ailments because of a poor diet and lack of exercise. He regained his health with a new diet and exercise; his experience inspired him to write about how best to preclude the infirmities of old age. Cheyne’s chapter on “sleeping and watching” is highly entertaining and filled with advice on everything from going to bed with a full stomach to “the proper season for sleep.” Perhaps the most memorable line in the entire book is also the sagest advice: “People that read and write much, ought to do them standing, or in as erect a Posture as they can.” [RA 775 C53 1725]
Catherine Roozen
Cathy Roozen is a director of Cathton Investments Limited and a director of the Allard Foundation. Her community involvement—including the Shock Trauma Air Rescue (STARS) Society, the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute Strategy Council, and the former Alberta Cancer Board—reflects a commitment to innovative partnerships and outstanding health care. In 2005, Roozen received an Alumni Honour Award from the U of A.
Grey, Maria Georgina Shirreff. Thoughts on Self-Culture, Addressed to Women. London:
E. Moxon, 1850.
Thoughts on Self-Culture, Addressed to Women
This first edition is an important work on female independence. The author and her sister promoted the idea of female mental cultivation and had a profound influence on the advancement of women’s education in the second half of the nineteenth century. They were actively involved in developing better secondary education for girls and established the Women’s Education Union as well as MG Training College for secondary school teachers. They strongly opposed conventional conceptions of femininity and argued vehemently for female suffrage and wider career opportunities for women. The two volumes are bound in original publishers purple cloth. [LC 31 G75 1850 v.1-2]
James Westvick Thorsell
Internationally renowned for his work with UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, U of A distinguished alumnus James Thorsell began his career working for Parks Canada in Banff and was an early pioneer of sustainable development and natural conservation. From 2002 to 2004, he was part of the team that created Canada's new tentative list of potential World Heritage Sites, a list that has become a model for other countries worldwide. A Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (London), Thorsell has received numerous awards.
Willis, Nathaniel Parker. Canadian Scenery Illustrated.
London: G. Virtue, 1842.
Canadian Scenery Illustrated
Willis introduces readers to the history and settlement of Upper and Lower Canada; he also includes substantive chapters on a range of topics, including prevailing social conditions, travellers’ impressions of the vast terrain, and suggestions on emigration. The illustrations by preeminent travel illustrator William Henry Bartlett (1809–1854) are astonishingly beautiful and are now considered his finest work. They capture exquisite details in a wide range of scenes, including lake views of port towns, a wigwam in the forest, canoes moving along the rapids, a settler’s hut on the frontier, and the winding dirt roads of eastern townships. [FC 72 W73 1842 v.1-2]
Sheila Watt-Cloutier
Sheila Watt-Cloutier is a leader and advocate for the Inuit people and the arctic regions of the worlds. She was instrumental as spokesperson for a coalition of northern Indigenous Peoples in the global negotiations that led to the 2001 Stockholm Convention banning the generation and use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that contaminate the arctic food web. Watt-Cloutier is an Officer of the Order of Canada.
Macduff, Alistair. Lords of the Stone: An Anthology of Eskimo Sculpture. North Vancouver: Whitecap Books, 1982.
Lords of the Stone: An Anthology of Eskimo Sculpture
Alistair Macduff was the director of the Gallery of the Arctic in Victoria, British Columbia, from 1967 to 1977. Written as a personal tribute to Inuit sculptors, the 150 photographs by George M. Galpin reveal a truly breathtaking collection, but Macduff cautions his readers that they represent merely a small fraction of the total number of pieces that are housed in public and private collections around the world. The book displays a wide range of Inuit artistic activity, and the many disparate examples of carvings give readers tremendous insight into the brilliant work of Inuit artists. This book was printed in a limited edition of 500 numbered and signed copies. This volume is number 13. [E 99 E7 M1245 1982 folio]
Rudy Wiebe
Rudy Wiebe, a professor emeritus of English at U of A, is a celebrated author and mentor to many successful writers. His acclaimed fiction includes the novels The Temptations of Big Bear, The Scorched-Wood People, and A Discovery of Strangers. An Officer of the Order of Canada and a two-time winner of the Governor General's Award for fiction, Wiebe received the Charles Taylor Award for Best Canadian Literary Non-fiction in 2007 for his memoir Of This Earth: A Mennonite Boyhood in the Boreal Forest.
Brooke, Frances. The History of Emily Montague.
London: J. Dodsley, 1769.
The History of Emily Montague
Charles Blue brought considerable critical attention to this important Canadian novel in his 1921 Canadian Magazine article “Canada’s First Novelist.” Since that time The History of Emily Montague has become widely known as the first English novel set and written in Canada. Frances Brooke (1724–1789) moved from England to Quebec with her husband, John Brooke, when he accepted a position as a military chaplain to the British garrison. Her new surroundings inspired her to write an epistolary novel set in Quebec City. Brooke’s story chronicles life in Quebec City in the years preceding the American War of Independence. This beautiful first edition set was bound in full calf by preeminent bookbinder Michael Wilcox. [PS 8403 R77 H6 1769 v.1-4]