Book excerpt: 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. Bock vividly portrays scenes of contemporary life and society in an era of Dutch expansionism, as well as recounting his observations of the flora and fauna. Although many have travelled to the island and recorded their observations since the first publication of Bock's account, his book remains an original and unpretentious depiction of the region, further enhanced by a collection of vivid color illustrations.