White Waters and Black

by Gordon MacCreagh

Book Overview

With a wicked eye for absurdities, Gordon MacCreagh recounts his adventures with eight "Eminent Scientificos" as they set out to explore the Amazon in 1923 without any idea of what lies ahead of them: rapids, malaria, monkey stew, and "dangerous savages." A combination of Twain's The Innocents Abroad and a cautionary tale for explorers, this is one of the most honest accounts ever written of a scientific expedition.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0226500187
• ISBN13: 9780226500188
• Release Date: January 1994
• Publisher: University of Chicago Press
• Length: 335 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.2" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

A keeper

I can't believe you can get this book used! I own three copies and I don't even loan it out. This is a terrific expedition book and a wonderful book about being human. My family was thrilled to know that this book was being re-issued. Like one of the other reviewers, I was brought up knowing who the various scientists were because my father had worked with a colleague. It gave us plesure to know the names, some of whom were quite well known even today. It was also nice to know that at least for the eminent icthyolgist and the eminent entomologist the work that they produced from this expedition was very useful. I have recommmened this book countless times, and get copies for friends I really like.

A book not to be missed!

This book is hilariously enjoyable. MacCreagh`s perspective and presentation are both subtle and overt. It is a shame that this book is no longer easily available, because I won't lend my copy for fear it won't come back. If the publishers won`t reprint, find a copy and read it.