This is a selection from the American travel journals of the man whom Charles Darwin called "the most scientific traveler who ever lived". On his expedition to South America, Mexico, and Cuba, Humboldt collected information of great importance to all branches of science. He collected plant species, studied the Indians, climbed mountains, experimented with treacherous electric eels. He recorded everything he saw and did, with the result that his journals provide a fascinating first-hand account of a great adventure and a glimpse of a superbly trained scientist in action.

Mrs. Selsam has written an extensive introduction, as well as illuminating bridge passages which unify the selections and explain the importance of the observation that Humboldt made on his journey.

Russell F. Peterson's beautifully executed line drawings are a perfect complement to the text.

From the dust jacket