THIS WAS LONDON: THE FIRST TWO CENTURIES. Miller, Orlo. Westport (Ont.). Butternut Press, 1988. 239pp. cloth. $27.95, ISBN 0-921575-07-6. Distributed by Butternut Press. P.O. Box 166. Westport. Ont. K0G 1X0. CIP Grades 10 and up/Ages 15 and up Reviewed by Charles Ottosen Volume 17 Number 3 1989 May This book is, as the title indicates, a history of the first two hundred years of London, Ontario. It is written by a local historian whose books on the Donnelly’s are also well known. Having lived and worked his entire life in London. Miller knows not only the facts but also the tall tales of his native city. Miller takes a chronological approach in telling the story of his home town. The book is obviously aimed it the lay reader both in its writing style and in the number of interesting illustrations placed throughout the book. Although the author la from London he makes a real effort to be objective and actually debunks some of the myths and stories of London. Not being a trained historian, Miller does not pretend to provide an in-depth analysis of the historical events of London. Instead, he is content to combine fact with stories and anecdotes to give a popular interpretation of his City's history. This is not a slight against Miller but rather a comment on his approach and intended audience. To add to the popular appeal (as well as to the historical usefulness of the book), Miller has made a good effort to place London's history in the context of national and international events of the period covered. This is a pleasant little local history book, which will be popular in southern Ontario and with those people who have a connection with London. Includes index and bibliography. Charles Ottosen, Airdrie Public Library, Airdrie, Alta.