Oceania Books

Going across the ocean alone with all the technology me have today would be a daunting task to say the least. Can you imagine doing it in a 18 ft schooner, all by yourself, in the 1800's with nothing but a clock and a sextant and a few maps? And sailing all the way from San Francisco to Australia? Well, that is exactly what this brave seaman did. Sam Ivey has taken a true story, taken from a the logbook of this determined young man and has embellished it with a few details to add a bit of drama. Like it needs any additinal drama! Mr. Ivey did a wonderful job telling this tale that needed telling of a brave man that did a task next to impossible to do with no thought of reward to himself. He just felt the need to do it. The sea was calling to him and he needed to go. Sam Ivey really makes you feel this man's yearnings. Please look for Mr. Ivey's other book, "Crooked Triangle", a fictional tale set on the Bermuda seas.

A great, great book. Really brings to light the myriad of people, places and things that comprise modern day Australia. Very funny, yet touching at times.

I'm recently out of college and have had the desire to go to a beautiful region with history, nice beaches, and warm weather for a vacation. Someone told me I should check into Guam so I got this book and was amazed at the detail put into it! It lists different historic sites, parks, beaches, and other great places to visit and everything each one has to offer along with the story behind it. It even summarized a list of twelve essential things to do when you visit Guam which is helpful for an indecisive person like me who would want to do it all!!! :) The clincher that made me sure I want to go there on vacation? The clear and colorful pictures throughout the book that show how incredible and breathtaking each part of the island is! I can't wait to take a hike on Guam to one of their many majestic waterfalls!

Excellent - one of those guides that make you feel you've already been there. Given the size of Madagascar and the difficulty of its internal communications, the update is as good as one could reasonably demand. Ms Bradt knows her subject, from terrain to people to unique wildlife. No visitor should be without this invaluable publication

I've lived in New Zealand and after coming back to the U.S. I've had the privledge of taking groups back and I highly recomend this book for anyone traveling in NZ. It is better than most guide books although a little large as a guide book. I'd gladly take it because this books gives in detail information about almost every town in NZ from historical information to economic background. Gives places to see and where to see them. Now if they could shrink it you could through away the Lonely Plant book and Fodor's. For a photographer it is a must to read before traveling there. Both great writing and photography.

American architecture publishers take note: This one's got it right. The chapters are divided into historical periods, and the essays include not only floor plans but also condition reports and visitor access information. The "best" buildings get full essays with photographs. Lesser-known or otherwise deeply buried (but still interesting) structures are included in the "honorable mention" sections at the end of the book, which include an address, a build date and a small photo. There's an historical timeline of Sydney which runs across the header of each page in the book. It's very nicely done. I wish all architecture surveys were this good. Then again, I wish more cities were as nice as Sydney. I should mention that it's all black & white. No color.

Fantastic "Dear Diary" tale of the author's trip overseas to pursue a teaching assignment. Try to keep up, if you can, as she takes you through the streets, trails and beaches, local eateries, museums and sightseeing highpoints of many New Zealand cities.

Planning a trip to New Zealand? Read this book first! Enjoy cooking? Try the wonderful recipes included, such as this one (pg.209); Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce. Yum!

I bought this book for my kids ages 3, 6, & 9 in preparation for our trip to Hawaii. Each one of them has enjoyed it and now they have a better idea of what they will be seeing in the national park. It's well-written with lots of pictures and keeps their interest. I highly recommend it.

Beautiful says it all about the photography, writing and printing in this book!

I thought the book was fabulous because it told so many fascinating details about Hawaii and it had wonderful pictures of the beautiful islands of Hawaii. It also had so many interesting facts that I never knew before and it really helped me with my state report. I really recommend it for any kid or adult who would like to learn about Hawaii's history, culture and geography. I really thought the book was just amazing.