Over the years, New Zealand has produced a remarkable array of eccentrics and odd characters. They range from ship jumpers and gold prospectors to swagmen, hermits, confidence tricksters, politicians, writers and dreamers of all types, not forgetting the society lady who turned brothel keeper. This collection of 26 short biographies, accompanied by contemporary illustrations and photographs, brings many of these characters to life, and not only makes lively reading but also helps to remind us of the richness and variety of New Zealand life.