First Map: How James Cook Charted Aotearoa New Zealand

by Tessa Duder, David Elliot (Illustrator)

The story of how James Cook charted Aotearoa New Zealand, lavishly produced and richly illustrated

Since it was published by the Admiralty in 1816, James Cook's chart of New Zealand has long been regarded as one of the most extraordinary achievements in the history of cartography. First How James Cook Charted Aotearoa New Zealand tells the human story behind the creation of Cook's famous chart, following the progress of his six-month circumnavigation of New Zealand and piecing the map together as the narrative on H.M.B. Endeavour unfolds. It is a story of courage, dogged perseverance and Cook's extraordinary skills as both cartographer and seafarer. Scenes from Tessa Duder's evocative text are beautifully recreated by award-winning illustrator David Elliot in this exquisite large format edition. Published to coincide with the Tuia - Encounters 250 commemoration of James Cook's 1769-70 journey around New Zealand.

Genres: History

112 pages, Hardcover

Published January 19, 2021

About the author

Tessa Duder trained as a journalist, and spent fifteen years rearing four daughters before she turned to writing fiction in her late thirties. Her books include the four Alex novels, Jellybean and Night Race to Kawau, as well as ten titles of non-fiction for both adults and young people. She's also an editor, short story writer, playwright and actor. Born in Auckland in 1940, she's lived most of her life there, except for periods spent in England, Pakistan and Malaysia.

Tessa Duder lives in Auckland, New Zealand, where she writes full time.

Reviews

[R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book. I would have liked more of the primary source material that was alluded to, and the writing glosses over a lot. In general, though, a nice description of the expedition and I really liked learning about the Tahitian translator and artist that accompanied Captain James Cook to New Zealand.

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I won this book at my school end of year Prizegiving my first thoughts were ‘ugh I’m never going to read this!’ - I also for some reason thought that this would be from a Māori perspective which I was NOT keen on.
Well I can say that I was pleasantly surprised with this book and I actually really enjoyed it! I would totally recommend this to any Kiwi with an interest in history in general.

[Briar]

Check thesapling.co.nz for my review.