'If any New Zealand book has earned the label "long awaited", it is this one... This is a superb book, scrupulously researched...stylishly written, generously illustrated and rewarding to read... Most importantly, it speaks to our times.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.

The influence of explorers, missionaries, beachcombers, labour traders and colonial administrators upon the culture of the Pacific Islands' peoples.

Highlights five nineteenth-century travelers who explored the South Seas and made discoveries about themselves.

As with its earlier versions, this book has been written not for fellow academics, but for the many people who want to know 'what happened'.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations.

Translated from the French and Retold By Helen Rosenman Dumont d'Urville's two epic voyages to the South Pacific and Antarctica, virtually unknown in English-speaking countries.