The Amazon and its Wonders is a verbal sketch of the physical characteristics and natural wonders of the Amazon river. My 1881 Thomas Nelson & Sons edition is unattributed as are many others of the Victorian era, however, the work was actually written by WH Davenport Adams and based on the information recorded by William Herndon, Louis Agassiz, Alfred Wallace, William Edwards & Henry Bates.

The book itself is a very easy read and feels somewhat like a cosy lecture. WHD Adams writes directly to the reader and shepherds you through the journey from the source of the Amazon to its mouth relaying detailed scenes and relevant historical or cultural events to the reader.

Whilst weighing in at the shorter end of the non fiction spectrum at a spritely 207 pages it is nonetheless an interesting and picturesque read which comes complete with numerous highly detailed engraved illustrations (and a wonderful gold gilt cover). ( )