SEA ROUTES TO THE GOLD FIELDS

by Oscar Lewis ‧ RELEASE DATE: N/A

Don't let the choice of the exact date for two gold rush books by different publishers disturb you; use it instead for double display and special emphasis....This is of more specialized interest than his other books (Silver Kings, The Big Four etc.) but with Lewis' same facility in robust recapitulation of an exciting era. This again draws from contemporary material in what was a most articulate migration for a portrayal of life aboard the coastbound steamers 100 years ago. From the exuberant exodus to the voyage of many days; the initial seasickness, the later boredom -- and diversions to combat it; the dangers of storm and shipwreck; of scurvy, cholera and yellow fever, which spread more quickly because of crowded conditions; of stops ashore and the Panama crossing; of women passengers -- marriage bound; of the costs of the trip; of the arrival and first impressions... Oscar Lewis makes the most of his material, and interprets it with spirit.

Pub Date: N/A

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Knopf

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 1949

Categories: NONFICTION