Book excerpt: Packed with tales of 'derring-do' and keeping a stiff upper lip in the face of adversity, this new guide thrusts the country's well known, and lesser-known, adventurers of the centuries past and present into the limelight. The book introduces 26 male and female characters, whose achievements have contributed to society's progress and understanding since the 19th century. Read about feats from the likes of aviator Amy Johnson CBE and sailor Dame Ellen MacArthur. All pioneers in their field, from missionaries to pilots, their stories are an inspiration.