Alone in West Africa

"Alone in West Africa" by Mary Gaunt is an early 20th-century travelogue that follows the author's solo experiences traversing West Africa, showcasing its people, environment, and the hardships she encountered. Triggered by childhood stories of daring escapades and a family history steeped in exploration, the narrative lays the groundwork for Gaunt's personal transformation. Following hardship and financial difficulties as a widow, Gaunt resolves to realize her lifelong ambition of African exploration. She shares details of preparing for her voyage, her eagerness as she gets on a boat to The Gambia, and her initial impressions of the strange land, which she meets with excitement and worry. By interweaving her background with her goals, the opening establishes the tone for her adventures, introducing readers to her energetic quest for discovery and knowledge.