A Broken Journey: Wanderings from the Hoang-Ho to the Island of Saghalien and the Upper Reaches of the Amur River

"A Broken Journey" by Mary Gaunt is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author’s adventures and experiences as she journeys from the Hoang-Ho River to the Island of Saghalien, traversing the Upper Reaches of the Amur River. Gaunt's narrative likely reflects on themes of exploration and cultural encounters, driven by her fervent curiosity and a desire to experience the unknown. The story features the author as the main character, embarking on an ambitious journey through challenging terrains and sociopolitical landscapes. The opening of the book introduces us to Gaunt's motivations for travel, which stem from a lifelong "wander fever" common in her family. Living in a mission station in Pao Ting Fu, China, she grapples with both the allure and discomforts of travel in the region, particularly the challenges posed by local conditions and a potential danger from bandits like "White Wolf." She prepares for an arduous crossing of Asia not through conventional means, but instead along a more treacherous caravan route. As she collects practical advice from fellow missionaries and assembles her travel team, including a servant and a dog, her preparations reflect her determination to embrace the adventure despite the advice against it. The opening serves as an engaging prelude to a journey marked by both personal courage and cultural exploration.