A Breath from the Veldt

A Breath from the Veldt by John Guille Millais (1986, Galago Publishing) revives a classic Victorian-era exploration of Southern Africa, first written in 1895, presenting a vivid panorama of wildlife, landscapes and big-game adventures through the eyes, pen, and pencil of a naturalist-artist. The facsimile edition faithfully reproduces Millais’s original illustrations and narrative, bringing back to life his wanderings across savannahs, forests and veld — from the silent stalking of predators to the majesty of antelope and bird life under African skies.

Within A Breath from the Veldt, Millais blends evocative prose with sumptuous illustrations — electro-etchings, full-page plates and numerous drawings — capturing the drama and beauty of the natural world. His descriptions of animal behaviour, geography and environment pair with his artistic renderings to offer a richly immersive experience. Whether recounting thrilling hunts or peaceful moments observing nature, the book provides a compelling portrait of Africa at the end of the 19th century, before sweeping changes transformed its landscape and wildlife.

This 1986 Galago edition remains a treasured classic for collectors of Africana, natural history enthusiasts, hunters-at-heart, and readers fascinated by the wild beauty of Southern Africa. A Breath from the Veldt stands as both a historical document and an artistic achievement — a timeless tribute to a vanishing world, ideal for any second-hand book collection seeking depth, nostalgia, and a window into Africa’s wild heritage.

Condition – Very Good

Minor damageMinor wear to dust jacket with. Some light wear on boards top and bottom edges.