Typee was Melville's first novel and remained his most popular work until the late 1930's. It is a thrilling tale of adventure set in the primitive islands of the South Seas in the mid-nineteenth century and is based on the author's own experiences. In Typee he manages to combine anthropological observation, romance and travel with high adventure in a formula which was the foundation of his reputation as the pre-eminent American novelist of his period. There is also a deeper message in the book, as Melville holds up a mirror to Western civilisation. The image that is reflected is not always attractive or flattering.