The Whaleman's Adventures in the Sandwich Islands and California

Boston: Lee & Shepard, 1871. Hardcover. Very Good. Hardcover. THE OCEAN LIFE SERIES. SCARCE IN EARLY EDITION. William Henry Thomes was born in 1824 in Portland, Maine. In his youth, he traveled to California and then to the South Pacific and Australia. Eventually he became Senior Lecturer in English, University of Adelaide. Thomes, a notable figure in 19th-century American literature, was acclaimed for his exciting tales of adventure and exploration, most prominently seen in his work 'The Gold Hunters' Adventures; Or, Life in Australia'. His literary style, was characterized by vivid narratives and detailed descriptions of the adventurer's lifestyle. Lee and Shepard was one of the most prolific publishers of juvenile series in the 19th century. Numerous sets, series and libraries were produced by this firm. The Whaleman's Adventures was released in December, 1871 as part of The Ocean Life Series, which included 3 titles by Thomes published from 1871-1873. The copyright date is 1871, but no date appears on the title page. However, it seems that Lee & Shepard did not issue reprints, so this volume appears to be one of the earliest published volumes. Octavo. Green cloth-covered boards with title and sailing ship in gilt to spine and blind-stamped medallion to front cover. Covers and spine are slightly worn at edges and show some signs of handling. Front and rear joints are starting. Previous owner's name in pencil on front pastedown. Page block is slightly yellowed, but otherwise clean and clear. 444 pages. TRAVEXP/061925.