The Greater Vancouver Book

Announced as an "urban encyclopedia," the late Chuck Davis's almost 900-page work covers history, culture, recreation, buildings, and events through the pens of myriad writers. Davis had a reputation for interesting anecdotes and for tying dates to places and events that make history fun and memorable, and he encouraged the writers (including myself) to do the same.

If you want to know about your neighbourhood's past, the background on Hollywood North, or the shipping industry, this book has all sorts of rabbit holes to explore.