Here is a book which sounds quite interesting for this thread: Frank Tod, Whaling in Southern Waters. Forster describes it as "Of partic. interest for material on shore-based whaling in the Otago area 1831-48.... Includes 'Songs and verses of the whalers.'" What is more, it was published by New Zealand Tablet Co., which sounds like an educational company.

It would be a perfect fit for Our Book, were it not that Forster says it was published in 1982. But might there be an earlier version?

I've located a copy in New Zealand, but the price is high. I thought I'd post here asking about it before I blow the money. According to Worldcat, there are no copies in libraries that are anywhere near me, and I have no idea if I could get it by inter-library loan.