About the author

James Bonwick (1817-1906) is an author about whom limited biographical information is publicly available, yet whose works cover a wide range of subjects, combining popular knowledge with historical inquiry. Four of his works are held in this collection. Notes of a Gold Digger, and Gold Diggers' Guide records the experiences and practical information of gold diggers; How Does a Tree Grow? Or, Botany for Young Australians and Astronomy for Young Australians introduce natural science to young readers in an accessible way; and Captain Cook in New South Wales Or, The Mystery of Naming Botany Bay presents a historical account of Captain Cook's voyages and the origins of place names. These works show that he was skilled at turning practical knowledge, introductory science and historical investigation into reading material for general readers, balancing readability with the transmission of knowledge. Public information is limited, so a full account of his life and academic background cannot be given, but these four works already reflect his writing interests in youth education and the early history and culture of Australia.

Written (4)

Publishers

Project Gutenberg