This book contains a new selection of Stevenson"s essays, some - such as "Confessions of a Unionist" - published here for the first time. Humorous, opinionated and humane, Stevenson moves through a wide range of subjects, tackling everything from umbrellas and walking tours, strife in Ireland and struggle in Samoa to John Knox and Robert Burns. This selection offers fresh insights into the author"s life and art and is published to coincide with the centenary of his arrival in the South Seas. The collection is edited and newly introduced by Jeremy Treglown, editor of "The Times Literary Supplement". Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894), author of "Kidnapped", "Treasure Island" and "Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde", was also one of the best known essayists, critics and travel writers of his day. He was born and educated in Edinburgh, but travelled extensively, living for periods in America, Switzerland, the Riviera and England before emigrating to the South Seas in 1887. He died in Samoa, aged 44.