There is nothing quite like parrot pie for breakfast. First one must catch one's parrot, of course, and build the hearth to bake it, but that is all in a days work for the women you will meet in this riveting anthology, whose experiences in settling the wildernesses of the world challenged to the limits their spirit, resourcefulness, and even survival.

Introduction ; 1. Taking Leave ; 2. The Voyage Out ; 3. First Impressions ; 4. Settling In ; 5. Spending the Day ; 6. Matters Domestic ; 7. Triumph and Delight ; 8. Danger and Desperation ; 9. Staying On ; Source Acknowledgements ; Index of Authors

'Jane Robinson's anthology contains some startling information.... there is more to this slim book than drama. We hear a variety of female voices and views. Some of the entries are touching and others amusing. Perhaps the most appealing aspect is the impression of the everyday joys and struggles of women accustoming themselves to the challenges of life in the British Empire.' - Anastasia Tolstoy, Literary Review, October 1999 'The 100 plus voices that make up this anthology are ruch and varied, ranging from missionaries to prostitutes and gold diggers to distressed gentlewomen hunting for husbands... For tips on how best to cook kangaroo meat, shoot quick and count your blessings - this is the book.'- Daily Mail, 1.10.99 'Jane Robinson has a good touch with titles.' - The Sunday Times, 10.10.99

In same vein as Jane Robinson's earlier, very successful anthologies: Wayward Women and Unsuitable for Ladies An irresistable cast-list of eccentrics and 'ordinary' women doing extraordinary things A new perspective on familiar history (of emigration) Huge human interest

Jane Robinson was born in Edinburgh and brought up in North Yorkshire. After graduating from Somerville College, Oxford, he joined a firm of antiquarian book dealers specializing in travel, later leaving to pursue a writing career. She lives near Oxford with her husband and two sons. This is her fourth book.

In same vein as Jane Robinson's earlier, very successful anthologies: Wayward Women and Unsuitable for Ladies An irresistable cast-list of eccentrics and 'ordinary' women doing extraordinary things A new perspective on familiar history (of emigration) Huge human interest