Islands of the Southern Seas. By M. M. Shoemaker. (G.
P. Putnam's Sons.)—While we are by no means disposed to decry as a whole what may fairly be called " globe-trotters' literature," we are compelled to remark that most of it is superfluous. Rarely are we permitted the pleasure of welcoming a book which, admittedly the record of a pleasure trip over fairly well known. ground, is at once instructive and readable. The present volume does not, in our opinion, justify its appearance on either of these grounds. It is undoubtedly at some disadvantage here, being manifestly written for American readers. To the majority of them it will probably appeal, for reasons too familiar to us. Much that Mr. Shoemaker has to say about the Australasian Colonies will, we fear, be received with justifiable indignation, while it will be eagerly read by those of his compatriots who are not daunted by his extraordinary style, or want of style. The only chapters that are likely to interest readers on this side are those dealing with Java, for much of the information in which the author acknow- ledges his indebtedness to Sir Stamford Raffles. Fate has been. kind to Mr. Shoemaker in the matter of his publishers. The book is well printed, well indexed, and well illustrated, while for the abundant errors of spelling we must hold the author responsible..
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