One of the most remarkable women of any generation, Mary Slessor is achieving increasing recognition for her amazing life. More than eighty years after her death in 1915, she became the first woman to be depicted on a Scottish banknote. A hard-working mill girl and unorthodox Sunday school teacher in Dundee, Mary was inspired by David Livingstone to become a missionary herself – in parts of Africa where no European had set foot before. Mary lived with different tribes around Calabar, Nigeria, respecting their traditions but also putting an end to barbaric tribal practices, and adopting many African children who would otherwise have been left to die. Her feisty character and solid belief in God saw her through illness and constant danger, and during Southern Nigeria’s transition to a British Protectorate she also proved to be a skilful and diplomatic emissary.

‘Chipping away at the cliched image of this redoubtable woman, Robertson creates a sympathetic picture of Slessor’s extra-ordinary life and the intimidating circumstances in which she worked and gained respect. Though brief, this work captures Slessor’s passion and warmth, as well as her
indomitable courage.’ Life and Work