Two Years Among New Guinea Cannibals A Naturalist's Sojourn Among the Aborigines of Unexplored New Guinea

"Two Years Among New Guinea Cannibals" by A. E. (Antwerp Edgar) Pratt is a captivating naturalist's travelogue from the early 1900s, chronicling Pratt's expeditions into the unexplored heart of New Guinea. Pratt's narrative revolves around the island's abundant wildlife, diverse indigenous societies, and the demanding nature of scientific exploration in a raw environment. The story highlights Pratt's fascination with New Guinea's abundant natural history, the complexities of its tribal customs, and the risks and rewards of his expeditions. The initial chapters lay out Pratt's extensive global travels, preparing readers for his plunge into New Guinea, a land he deems more intriguing than any other. Pratt alludes to the island's untapped potential for commerce and scholarly insight, with a focus on its varied birdlife and numerous tribes with distinct languages. He describes the treacherous landscape of steep hills and thick jungles, which makes travel and logistics notably difficult. The start serves to emphasize both the thrill of undiscovered territories and the pragmatic challenges of a naturalist's journey in such a secluded location.