Alone in West Africa

by Mary Gaunt

"Alone in West Africa" by Mary Gaunt is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author's adventures and experiences as she ventures into West Africa, exploring its culture, landscapes, and the unique challenges she faces. The narrative sets the stage for Gaunt's journey of self-discovery, driven by a lifelong yearning for travel and adventure sparked by her childhood. The opening of the narrative establishes Gaunt's motivations for traveling to West Africa, tracing back to her family's history and her childhood fascination with adventure tales, particularly one about a boy named Carlo who was captured by savages. After facing personal tragedy and financial struggle as a widow, Gaunt decides to fulfill her long-held dream of exploring Africa. She describes the preparation for her journey, her excitement about the trip as she boards the ship bound for the Gambia, and her first encounters with the unfamiliar land, which she approaches with both enthusiasm and a sense of trepidation. The beginning sets the tone for her adventures by blending her past with her aspirations, introducing readers to her spirited quest for knowledge and exploration.