Subject
Australia -- Description and travel Books
Best books
E. W. (Edgar Watson) Howe
Travel letters from New Zealand, Australia and Africa
No description available.
John Lort Stokes
Discoveries in Australia, Volume 1. With an Account of the Coasts and Rivers Explored and Surveyed During The Voyage of H.M.S. Beagle, in the Years 1837-38-39-40-41-42-43. By Command of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. Also a Narrative Of Captain Owen Stanley's Visits to the Islands in the Arafura Sea.
"Discoveries in Australia, Volume 1" by John Lort Stokes is a two-volume work published in 1846. It presents edited journals from the HMS Beagle's six-year surveying expedition along Australia's coasts and rivers from 1837 to 1843. The work chronicles both maritime and inland explorations undertaken by Stokes and his crew, revealing numerous previously unknown places in Australia. Written in an engaging and vivacious style, it stands as the official account of the last major expedition of Australian discovery.
John Milne
Colonial facts and fictions: Humorous sketches
"Colonial Facts and Fictions: Humorous Sketches" by John Milne is a collection of humorous sketches written in the late 19th century. The book offers a satirical and entertaining glimpse into life in Australia, particularly focusing on the experiences of a traveler navigating the peculiarities of colonial society. Through various anecdotes and observations, Milne captures the essence of the Australian landscape and its inhabitants, blending reality with whimsical imaginings. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the narrator's arrival in Port Darwin, highlighting the quirks and oddities of colonial life. The narrator recounts his experiences with the local residents, including an aboriginal man named Charlie, who shares a comedic tale of his marriage and eventual capture, revealing cultural misunderstandings and humorous interactions between the "whites" and the indigenous people. Through vivid descriptions and comedic storytelling, Milne sets the tone for the collection, inviting readers to explore the blend of facts and fictions that characterize colonial Australia.
Samuel Smiles
A Boy's Voyage Round the World
"A Boy's Voyage Round the World" by Samuel Smiles is a non-fiction travel narrative written in the late 19th century. It recounts the experiences of Smiles' young son during a sea voyage that begins in England and takes him to Australia and back, emphasizing the adventurous spirit of youth along with the educational value of travel. The opening of the narrative establishes the context for the voyage, detailing how the journey was prompted by the young boy's struggle with health issues. Initially sent away on a long sea voyage to recover his health, he becomes immersed in life aboard the ship, capturing both the excitement of setting sail and the challenges of enduring the elements at sea. His observations include a mix of practical details about ship life, along with vivid depictions of the environment and the people he encounters, all while maintaining a youthful and curious perspective that invites readers into the adventure.
Arthur Conan Doyle
The Wanderings of a Spiritualist
"The Wanderings of a Spiritualist" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is an autobiographical account of the author's experiences as a spiritualist, likely written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles Doyle's journey as he travels from Britain to Australia, sharing his insights and personal encounters related to spiritualism. In this exploration, he interacts with various communities, addressing questions about life after death and the evidence of spiritual communication. At the start of the narrative, the author reflects on the profound impact of a séance he attended in Wales, which ignited his determination to spread the teachings of spiritualism. As he prepares for his journey to Australia, he expresses both excitement and trepidation about the undertaking. Doyle describes the preparations, including a farewell luncheon attended by significant figures in the spiritualist community. He conveys a sense of urgency to carry his message of comfort and truth to those who have been affected by loss, buoyed by previous positive experiences and a desire to reach those who still seek answers about the afterlife.
Philip Parker King
Narrative of a Survey of the Intertropical and Western Coasts of Australia — Vol. 2 Performed between the years 1818 and 1822
"Narrative of a Survey of the Intertropical and Western Coasts of Australia" by Captain Phillip P. King is a scientific publication written during the early 19th century. This work documents Captain King’s extensive maritime survey of Australia's northern and western coastlines, highlighting the geographical and natural features encountered during his voyages. The narrative provides insights into the challenges faced by the crew, interactions with indigenous peoples, and observations of local fauna and flora. The opening of the narrative sets the stage for the expedition, detailing the preparations for the fourth voyage aboard the newly acquired brig, the Bathurst. Captain King's crew grows in number, with the introduction of new members, including a young girl who secretly joins the voyage. As the expedition commences, the crew navigates the perils of the Australian coastline, facing unforeseen weather challenges, encounters with local wildlife, and interactions with the indigenous population, which hint at both cooperation and conflict. Captain King meticulously documents his experiences, emphasizing the significance of the region's natural history and the importance of hydrological studies.
Edwin Sharpe Grew
Rambles in Australia
"Rambles in Australia" by Edwin and Marion Sharpe Grew is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. This work captures the authors' impressions of Australia, detailing their experiences and observations from their travels through various states, alongside insights into the country's landscape, culture, and social dynamics. The book promises a mix of personal reflections and informative commentary aimed at both entertaining and educating readers about Australia. At the start of "Rambles in Australia," the narrative introduces the emotions and excitement of arriving in the country after a long sea journey. The authors convey their initial impressions of Western Australia, describing the natural beauty, the vibrant hospitality of its people, and their journey from the port to Perth, where they experience warm welcomes and a sense of adventure. The text sets the stage for a series of essays and observations that follow, reflecting on their encounters with the unique environment and the rich social fabric of the places they visit throughout their travels across the Australian continent.
Maturin M. (Maturin Murray) Ballou
Under the Southern Cross Or Travels in Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, Samoa, and Other Pacific Islands
"Under the Southern Cross" by Maturin M. Ballou is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. The book recounts the author's vivid adventures and observations throughout Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, the Samoan Islands, and other Pacific Islands, offering readers a comprehensive glimpse into these diverse regions at the time. Focusing on cultural practices, geographical wonders, and historical context, the book immerses readers in the experiences that shaped the author's journey. The opening of the work introduces Maturin M. Ballou's journey as he embarks on an extensive travel experience, beginning with a cross-country train ride across America to San Francisco. Here, he describes the vibrant atmosphere of the city, particularly the unique and often gritty character of Chinatown, which presents a stark contrast to the wider American experience. The narrative continues with preparations for a sea voyage to the islands of the Pacific, capturing the anticipation and exotic allure of destinations such as Honolulu. Ballou's keen observations of local customs, the beauty of the landscapes, and the complexities of life in these distant lands paint a lively and engaging portrait that sets the tone for the rest of the book.
John Lort Stokes
Discoveries in Australia, Volume 2 Discoveries in Australia; with an Account of the Coasts and Rivers Explored and Surveyed During the Voyage of H.M.S. Beagle, in The Years 1837-38-39-40-41-42-43. By Command of the Lords Commissioners Of the Admiralty. Also a Narrative of Captain Owen Stanley's Visits To the Islands in the Arafura Sea
"Discoveries in Australia, Volume 2" by John Lort Stokes is a narrative account published in 1846. This volume documents the maritime and inland explorations conducted by Stokes and the crew of HMS Beagle during their surveying expedition across Australia from 1837 to 1843. The work records newly discovered places, publishing their names and locations for the first time. Written in an engaging and vivacious style, it captures both coastal voyages and inland expeditions that shaped Australian geographical knowledge.
William John Wills
Successful Exploration Through the Interior of Australia From Melbourne to the Gulf of Carpentaria
"Successful Exploration Through the Interior of Australia" by William John Wills is a historical account likely written in the mid-19th century. The work chronicles the journey and experiences of Wills during the Burke and Wills Exploring Expedition, outlining his role as second in command while navigating uncharted territories of Australia. The narrative encapsulates themes of courage, exploration, and the challenges faced in seeking to expand knowledge of the continent. The opening of the book presents a heartfelt dedication by Wills' father, honoring his son's brief yet impactful life. It reflects on Wills' early traits and accomplishments, highlighting his exceptional capabilities in various scientific disciplines and his enduring commitment to exploration and the advancement of knowledge. The father's preface hints at the tragic fate that awaits Wills, setting a somber tone that underscores the risks taken by explorers of the time. In this introduction, readers are introduced to the heroic spirit that characterized Wills' endeavors, sparking interest in the unfolding adventure that would lead to his eventual demise in the harsh Australian interior.
Ludwig Leichhardt
Journal of an Overland Expedition in Australia From Moreton Bay to Port Essington, a distance of upwards of 3000 miles, during the years 1844-1845
"Journal of an Overland Expedition in Australia" by Ludwig Leichhardt is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book documents Leichhardt's ambitious journey across Australia, starting from Moreton Bay to Port Essington, traversing an impressive distance of over 3,000 miles. The narrative details the challenges faced by Leichhardt and his party, including navigation difficulties, harsh weather conditions, and interactions with Indigenous communities along the way. At the start of this expedition, Leichhardt outlines the origins and preparations for the journey, detailing the formation of his team, which includes several companions of diverse backgrounds. The opening chapters describe their departure from Sydney, the preliminary travel hardships, and initial landscapes encountered as they navigate the Darling Downs and enter the wilderness. Discussion of the geographical, botanical, and cultural observations provides a rich context, emphasizing the author's deep interest in the natural history and indigenous cultures of Australia. This journey set the stage for a significant exploration of the continent during a period of growing European interest.
Everard Cotes
Down Under with the Prince
"Down Under with the Prince" by Everard Cotes is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. This engaging account chronicles the Australasian tour of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales as he travels aboard the battle-cruiser "Renown" alongside his entourage and several journalists. The book offers a vivid depiction of the various locations the prince visits, highlighting the ceremonial aspects of his visit and the diverse cultures he encounters along the way. The opening of the book sets the scene for the departure of the "Renown" from Portsmouth, where the atmosphere is charged with anticipation for the royal voyage. Cotes captures the initial excitement as the ship prepares to sail, detailing the bustling activity of the dock as officials and spectators gather to witness the event. The narrative shifts into the daily routines aboard the ship, emphasizing the transformation of the prince from a royal figure to an active participant in the life of the crew. The warm camaraderie and efficiency among the sailors are portrayed, along with the prince's engaging personality, as he mingles freely, participates in drills, and partakes in informal meals with the crew. This establishes a foundation for the subsequent adventures and interactions that will unfold in the various ports they visit throughout the journey.
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