The Land Beyond the Forest: Facts, Figures, and Fancies from Transylvania

"The Land Beyond the Forest: Facts, Figures, and Fancies from Transylvania" by E. (Emily) Gerard is a late 1800s book that explores the land of Transylvania through the author's personal stories after living there for two years as the spouse of a military man. The story looks at Transylvania's landscapes, people, traditions, and especially the Saxon culture, while showing how these groups interact with each other. It starts with the author feeling like she's leaving a deserted island, similar to Robinson Crusoe, filled with affection for the area's natural beauty and the appeal of its people, along with thoughts on how new technology and factories are changing the land. The book expresses a sense of longing for the past, and the idea that Transylvania's unique heritage and old charms are slowly fading away.