For Her Love of Birds

Description

Jane Melville

The extraordinary untold story of Australian naturalist and taxidermist Jane Ward Tost

• For fans of John and Elizabeth Gould and readers of Melissa Ashley and Grantlee Kieza, this gripping narrative non-fiction book explores a woman’s tumultuous journey to become a leading naturalist and taxidermist in the 19th century
• Jane Ward Tost started out as an apprentice to John Gould in London, and readers will go on a journey with Jane from her beginnings in Golden Square all the way across the ocean to start new life in Australia
• Meticulously researched and beautifully written by respected museum curator, writer and biologist Jane Melville AM, this book includes newly uncovered and unpublished information about Jane Tost and her peers, including the eminent naturalist John Gould
• The author is a keen and experienced public speaker and will be available for bookshop visits, public readings and workshops upon publication Jane Ward Tost defied 19th century societal constraints to become one of England’s leading naturalists and taxidermists. A peer of John Gould and John James Audubon, Jane’s artistic talent and technical expertise captivated museum visitors around the globe. But Jane’s incredible achievements were not easily won. She lived a highly eventful life, showing remarkable resilience in the face of profound difficulties.

Meticulously researched and beautifully written by museum curator, biologist and writer Jane Melville AM, this enthralling biography follows the extraordinary life of Jane Ward Tost (1816–1889), Australia’s first salaried
female museum employee. Forgotten by history, she left an indelible legacy.

ISBN 9781921833779

Format paperback

Pages 288

Published April 2026