In the Strange South Seas, Beatrice Grimshaw, Hutchinson & Co., London, 1907

In the Strange South Seas by Beatrice Grimshaw is a travel narrative based on the author’s journeys through the South Pacific islands in the early 20th century. Blending firsthand observation with lively storytelling, Grimshaw recounts her experiences in places such as Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, and the Cook Islands. The book describes daily life, local traditions, natural scenery, and the rhythms of island communities, while also offering practical commentary for potential settlers and travellers. Though written from a colonial-era perspective, the work remains a vivid and energetic account of a European woman’s exploration of the Pacific.

Beatrice Grimshaw (1870–1953) was an Irish-born writer, journalist, and traveler who spent much of her life in the Pacific Islands. Originally a journalist in Dublin, she became known for her travel writing after relocating to the South Seas in the early 1900s. She lived for many years in Papua New Guinea and contributed articles to major British newspapers. Grimshaw authored numerous travel books and adventure novels, gaining a reputation for her descriptive writing and bold spirit. Her work reflects both her deep fascination with the Pacific and the colonial attitudes of her time.

In the Strange South Seas, by Beatrice Grimshaw.

Published by Hutchinson & Co., London. Undated, but believed to be c. 1907. Given the 'pocket-size' nature of this book it is probably a smaller reissue of the first printing which would have been larger. The first printing was in 1907 and this would have been printed not too long afterwards.

A good red cloth hardback with gilt Publisher's roundel to front and gilt titles to spine. Just a little give in the spine. Mild wear and fading to spine. 

With portrait frontispiece image entitled ' The Taupo Fuamoa'. In Samoan culture, a taupou is a young woman selected from the daughters of a high-ranking chief to serve in a prominent ceremonial role. She is carefully trained to perform important social and cultural duties, including welcoming visitors and representing her village at formal events. Her position reflects not only her noble heritage but also the ideals of grace, dignity, and community responsibility.

The text is bright and clean throughout. Just very mild age-toning.

Text in English.

viii (including portrait frontispiece) + 9-352pp.

Dimensions: approximately 164mm tall x 117mm wide x 19mm deep.

Weight: approximately 247g (unpacked).