Despite its sensational title, Carl Bock's account of his travels in the 1870s in both Borneo and Sumatra covers much more than the well-known head-hunting pursuits of the Dayaks. Commissioned by the Dutch colonial authorities to make a journey into the little-explored districts of West Borneo, Bock proved to be a keen observer not only of the way of life of the peoples of the interior but also of their titular Malay overlords and of various aspects of colonial life. In fact [this account] was a pioneer amongst books on Borneo and its inhabitants, and although many have travelled and observed in that island since Bock's account was published, his book still holds pride of place in terms of originality and interest. Written in a clear and unpretentious style, this remarkable volume is further enhanced by a collection of extremely fine colour plates.