BILLY: THE LIFE AND PHOTOGRAPHS OF WILLIAM S.A. BEAL. Barrow, Robert and Leigh Hambly. Winnipeg, Vig. Corps Press, 1988. 117pp. paper, ISBN 0-9693693-0-1. Distributed by Vig. Corps Press, 588 Prosper Street. Winnipeg, Man. R2J 0M6. Grades 12 and up/Ages 17 and up Reviewed by A.L. Florence Volume 17 Number 3 1989 May William S. A. (Billy) Beal is a unique and enigmatic man. The lone black living in a northern pioneer settlement. Swan River Valley, at the turn of the century, he claimed he was descended from white parents. A steam engineer by trade and a skilled carpenter and electrician, he was ignorant of the skills of the rugged homesteader. He had practical knowledge of Medicare and was well read in law, literature, philosophy and astronomy. Beal was not handicapped by his race but by the patronizing attitude of the white society in which he played a significant part. His photographs preserve much of the early pioneer life of his community. Recommended with reservations. For larger collections only. A.L. Florence, Winnipeg, Man.