Biography & Autobiography

The Amazing World of James Hector: Explorer, Geologist, Botanist, Natural Historian, Surgeon - and One of New Zealand Science's Most Remarkable Figures

edited by Simon Nathan James Hector arrived in New Zealand in 1861 and within a few years had founded all the country's leading scientific bodies, including the national museum (now Te Papa), the New Zealand Institute (now the Royal Society) and the Geological Survey (now GNS Science). A man of seemingly unbounded energy and interests, at various times he was also responsible for the Met Department, Colonial Observatory, Wellington Botanic Garden and Patent Office library. In these superb essays, scientists, historians and Hector's descendants tell the fascinating story of Hector's life and work.

Roosters I Have Known

By Steve Braunias In 2007, journalist Steve Braunias embarked on a series of 27 interviews, one a week, profiling New Zealanders famous and infamous, both publicity-seekers and those rather keener to hide from the spotlight. This startling survey of the national psyche stirred controversy, hilarity and even animosity.

Under the Osakan Sun

By Hamish Beaton A young man arrives to teach English in Japan under the JET programme, but what has he got himself into? We absolutely guarantee you will love this warm, funny, wonderful story of adventure, education, home appliances and how not to choose a girlfriend.

In Extreme Danger

By Geoff Mackley and John McCrystal Christchurch-born Geoff Mackley has carved out an international reputation as a daring filmmaker and photographer of extreme and dangerous natural phenomena.

By Judith Bell, also known as Stephen Tindall - the woman The woman who changed her name to Stephen Tindall tells her story. Judith Bell and her husband Nelson had a young family, a promising manufacturing business, and a passionate determination to get ahead. When big-box retailer The Warehouse came calling with a big order, they thought their dreams had come true. Within four years they had lost almost everything. 'A powerful denunciation of the dark side of globalisation - at home and abroad' TIM HAZLEDINE

This Piece of Earth: A Life in My New Zealand Garden

by Harvey McQueen From its glorious, sumptuous cover to its captivating story, this garden book and memoir will warm the hearts of readers of all ages. 'Gardening, cooking, politics and poetry, brilliantly mixed ... I loved every minute of this book - a gorgeous read' FIONA KIDMAN