Born in Quebec City in 1929, Pierre Ouvrard practices his craft in his studio at Île-aux-Noix on Quebec's south shore. Regarded as the senior figure in his craft, both in his province and in his country, Ouvrard is the first bookbinder in Canada to be elected to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts (1979), and received the Order of Canada (1983). His designation as 'Master Bookbinder/Maître relieur' in the sub-title of this book is appropriate, for the extensive colour illustrations show a rich and varied body of work which demands repeat viewing for full appreciation.

Compilers Jeannine Greene and Merrill Distad of the University of Alberta Library divide the book into three parts. The front matter of 31 pages includes, in both English and French: a preface by Chief Librarian Ernie Ingles, reflections by the artist on his life as a bookbinder, some notes by Montreal bookseller Alfred Van Peteghem on the artist as friend and collaborator, and comments by art critic Normand Biron on Ouvrard's place in bookbinding history. All are important in providing a context for the artist's work and the collection's acquisition. The second part presents selections from the Pierre Ouvrard Collection, and the third part illustrates the Governor General's Literary Award winning books from 1973 to 1999. In total, more than 300 of Ouvrard's production of approximately 500 special bindings are illustrated. Concluding with an index, this well-designed book has high production values, with full-colour illustrations, fine quality acid-free paper, red-and-black typography, and a vivid red cover and endpapers.