William Collins Publishers Ltd, Auckland, 1982, 256 pages.

Gilbert Pearce's eminently readable and lucid writings have earned him a sound reputation among New Zealand's chroniclers, and his books cover many aspects of our country's social history. Here he has turned his attention to the work of the artisan, whose skill was vital in producing those necessities of life upon which the development of any community depends. His descriptions of what was done, and in what manner, are the outcome of considerable research and study, to form a valuable record of a vital part of New Zelaand's social history...