New Britain Diary, 1954

Book excerpt: An excellent glimpse into what anthropology was like in the not too-far distant past, Daris Swindler's six-month daily journal, written while on expedition to Melanesia from the University of Pennsylvania with Dr. Ward Goodenough and Dr. Ann Chowning fifty-three years ago, is human and captivating and shows us yet another time that is gone forever. Generously illustrated with photos from the trip the account takes us through unexpected adventures and routine data collection, all with a touch that is accessible and entertaining, and introduces us to a generous, independent people living in a natural setting and learning to adapt to modern life. A great book for budding anthropologists, seasoned scholars and armchair travelers alike, and a valuable text to accompany college-level courses.