The Mind Mappers

Nicole O’Byrne speaks with Eric Andrew-Gee about his book, The Mind Mappers. This powerful dual biography tells the true story of two neurosurgeons—Wilder Penfield and the lesser-known William Cone—whose partnership revolutionized brain science in the early 20th century. In the 1920s, when brain surgery was still highly risky, the two men joined forces, united by a fascination with the mind’s inner workings. Together, they founded the Montreal Neurological Institute, which quickly became a world-renowned center for neurological research. Penfield gained fame for developing the Montreal procedure to treat epilepsy, a breakthrough that revealed key brain functions related to speech, memory, and consciousness. Cone, meanwhile, worked tirelessly in the operating room and at patients’ bedsides, quietly enabling Penfield’s success. Though their achievements were shared, Cone’s contributions went largely unrecognized. Over time, the strain between them grew. Penfield pursued scientific glory, while Cone remained grounded in patient care. Their friendship deteriorated, ending abruptly with Cone’s sudden death at age sixty-two. Eric Andrew-Gee explores the founding of The Neuro and the complex bond between two men at the heart of modern neuroscience. The book restores Cone to his rightful place in history, illuminating the human cost of scientific progress. Eric Andrew-Gee is the Quebec correspondent for The Globe and Mail, based in Montreal, and a former staff reporter for the Toronto Star. He is the winner of two National Newspaper Awards. His work has appeared in magazines including The Walrus, Toronto Life and The New Republic. This is his first book. Image Credit: Penguin Random House If you like our work, please consider supporting it: bit.ly/support_WTY. Your support contributes to the Champlain Society’s mission of opening new windows to directly explore and experience Canada’s past.