The writer Bill Arnott discusses his new book A Perfect Day for a Walk: The History, Cultures, and Communities of Vancouver, On Foot (Arsenal Pulp Press, 2024), with Joseph Planta.

A Perfect Day for a Walk: The History, Cultures, and Communities of Vancouver, On Foot by Bill Arnott (Arsenal Pulp Press, 2024). Click to buy this book from Amazon.ca: A Perfect Day for a Walk

Text of the introduction by Joseph Planta:

I am Planta: On the Line, in Vancouver, British Columbia, at TheCommentary.ca.

Bill Arnott joins me now. He’s recently published a new book, A Perfect Day for a Walk: The History, Cultures, and Communities of Vancouver, On Foot. It’s part travelogue, and part history. In his observant, inimitable way, he walks parts of the city bringing the reader the sights and even sound, as well as points us to things we might have missed or overlooked, or taken for granted. He offers up hidden gems, as well as fascinating stories and histories of the neighbourhoods he walks through. Whether it’s Kitsilano, where he lives, or Granville Island, or False Creek or the West End, there’s all sorts of things we need to know about and remember. And even places like Yaletown or Chinatown or the Downtown Eastside, where we might have misconceptions about; are seen in a new light through Bill’s gaze. The book is a celebration of an ever-changing city, and there’s no better way to chart the city’s progress than on foot. I’ll ask Bill about why set out to document his walks, the various people he encounters on the way, that he canvasses for their thoughts about the direction of the city. I’ll also ask him about why he kept the journeys within the months of October to March. The book also has archival photos, as well as contemporary ones taken by Mr. Arnott, who joined me from here in Vancouver when we taped this interview nearly a month ago. Bill Arnott is the author of A Season on Vancouver Island, and the award-winning Gone Viking books. He is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. This new book is published by Arsenal Pulp Press. Please welcome to the Planta: On the Line program, Bill Arnott; Mr. Arnott, good morning.

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