Written by the author of Uncle Tom's Cabin, this work describes life in Florida in the latter half of the 19th century. Through simple stories of events and people, Stowe portrays an idyllic life of picnicking, sailing and river touring expeditions. A travel memoir comprising essays and letters written over several years, it describes Florida's exotic scenery and the rejuvenating effect it had on Stowe. Stowe also relates her efforts to help educate freedmen and women.