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A 3 out 5 sounds right on. Of course those three books I mentioned had a big advantage - actual survivors for the author to interview. This would not rank up to those standards in my opinion. All that being said, if you are a fan of survival books this is worthwhile. First let me say I am a big fan of survival against all odds types of books. I have read and loved Alive, Forever on the Mountain, In Harms Way, etc. This event took place in 1820 so the author had less to go on.
That it is so well- conceived and written puts it on my personal list of top ten non-fiction books. I adore tales of survival, especially when set at sea and this is truly one of the best. It's a real page turner, you won't be disappointed.
book arrived on time and in good condition. would definetly purchase from this merchant again.
The failure of the captain led to unnecessary loss of life when he gave in to his first mate's influence to sail east in the small whaleboats, in spite of his own gut feeling that they should sail west. a bare facts historical account of the sinking of the Essex by a sperm whale and the enfolding events after that. We may not like some of the decisions they made in order that some of them might have the chance to stay alive, but we until we are in their shoes we cannot be judgmental.great book
Unlike many survival classics, it doesn't have an eye-grabbing title. However, it is one of the more excellent accounts of such experiences.
You cannot go wrong in picking up this book. There are, of course, other similar tales of whaling voyages and tragedies, but that doesn't matter.
It never lags into mediocrity or tedium but maintains a steady line of tension which keeps the reader motivated. Philbrick did his homework and also knows his craft.
About ten years after it was written, In the Heart of the Sea is rapidly becoming one of the sea adventure classics. Many people probably miss it when they search for true adventure stories.
This story is unique in some ways and I came to care about the characters.
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