Books matching: mutinies and shipwrecks
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'The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket' by Edgar Allan Poe is a novel that follows the adventures of Arthur Gordon Pym at sea, starting as a realistic narrative of life on the ocean but quickly turning into a horrific story of survival with elements of fantasy. The book is filled with perilous situations, mutinies, shipwrecks, encounters with cannibals, and exploring uncharted lands at the southern extremity of the world. The writing style is described as macabre, with a mix of fear, wonder, horror, and delight, creating a surreal and gripping atmosphere that keeps the reader hooked until the abrupt and senseless ending.
Shortly afterward an incident occurred which I am induced to look upon as more intensely productive of emotion, as far more replete with the extremes first of delight and then of horror, than even an...- #2
Save:The Sea Wolf by Jack London is a thrilling sea adventure story that follows the journey of Humphrey Van Weyden, a gentleman who is rescued from a shipwreck and forced to join a crew of seal hunters aboard the ship Ghost, captained by the brutal and intelligent Wolf Larsen. The novel delves into themes of survival, morality, and the clash between intellect and brute force, all set against the backdrop of life at sea. The book is known for its vivid descriptions of nautical life and the complex relationship between the main characters as they navigate the challenges of the high seas.
Iscarcely know where to begin, though I sometimes facetiously place the cause of it all to Charley Furuseth’s credit. He kept a summer cottage in Mill Valley, under the shadow of Mount Tamalpais, and ... 'The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder' by David Grann is a gripping nonfiction narrative that delves into the harrowing journey of the British ship, the Wager, during the War of Jenkins' Ear. The story follows the crew's struggles as they face treacherous seas, diseases like typhus and scurvy, mutiny, and the ultimate shipwreck on a desolate island off the coast of Patagonia. Through the complex characters, including heroes and anti-heroes, readers are transported to the early 18th century seafaring world, experiencing the immense suffering and hardships endured by the sailors.
David Grann expertly weaves together a tale filled with perfect pacing, mystery, and a satisfying conclusion. The meticulous research and attention to detail are evident in the acknowledgments, bibliography, and index, showcasing Grann's dedication to crafting a compelling and historically accurate narrative. provides a vivid portrayal of life onboard a warship in 1742, highlighting the discipline and order of the British Navy, and shedding light on the challenges faced by the crew in their quest for survival and redemption.
- #4
Save:'Desolation Island' is the fifth book in the 'Aubrey & Maturin' series by Patrick O'Brian. The story revolves around Captain Jack Aubrey and Dr. Stephen Maturin as they embark on a daring voyage transporting felons to Australia. The book is filled with a mix of action and counter-espionage, showcasing O'Brian's skill in character development and historical detail. The narrative includes a gripping naval battle, a race against a powerful Dutch ship, and encounters with natural hazards in the Antarctic waters.
The plotline of 'Desolation Island' is intense and enthralling, with elements of shipwrecks, mutiny, and personal challenges faced by the characters. O'Brian's writing style brings the time period to life, illustrating the challenges people undertook during long voyages in tall ships amidst war. The book captures the essence of nineteenth-century naval life, with vivid descriptions of battles, storms, and the camaraderie among the crew members.
The breakfast-parlour was the most cheerful room in Ashgrove Cottage, and although the builders had ruined the garden with heaps of sand and unslaked lime and bricks, and although the damp walls of th...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Aubrey & Maturin ) - #5
Save:Moby Dick by Herman Melville is a classic novel that delves into the world of whaling in the 19th century, focusing on the vengeful hunt of a white sperm whale named Moby Dick by Captain Ahab. The story is narrated through the eyes of Ishmael, a young man who joins the crew of the ship Pequod along with his friend Queequeg, a former cannibal. The novel offers detailed insights into the whaling industry, life in Nantucket, and the psychological complexities of the characters, particularly Captain Ahab.
The writing style of Moby Dick is described as epic, humorous, sarcastic, and rich in variety. Herman Melville's prose is praised for its depth and complexity, transporting readers to the world of whaling with vivid descriptions of the sea, ships, whales, and the characters' inner turmoil. The novel weaves together elements of history, mythology, poetry, and humor, creating a literary masterpiece that explores themes of revenge, obsession, and the human condition.
Call me Ishmael. Some years ago—never mind how long precisely—having little or no money in my purse, and nothing particular to interest me on shore, I thought I would sail about a little and see the w... 'Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI' by David Grann delves into the disturbing history of the Osage tribe in Oklahoma, who were targeted for their wealth derived from oil reserves on their land. As mysterious deaths plague the tribe, the narrative uncovers a vast conspiracy orchestrated by local whites to steal the tribal wealth. The involvement of the newly formed FBI, led by ex Texas rangers, sheds light on the depths of corruption and greed that characterized this dark period in American history. intricately weaves together the detailed accounts of murders, investigations, and the systematic exploitation of the Osage people, leaving readers shocked by the extent of institutional evil and racial injustice.
Grann's storytelling skillfully intertwines the historical events with a gripping narrative, highlighting the horrors faced by the Osage tribe and the relentless pursuit of justice by the FBI agents. The detailed research and investigative reporting provide a comprehensive understanding of the crimes committed against the Osage people, while also shedding light on the limitations of the rule of law during that era. not only uncovers a forgotten chapter of American history but also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring presence of greed, corruption, and racial discrimination in society.
In April, millions of tiny flowers spread over the blackjack hills and vast prairies in the Osage territory of Oklahoma. There are Johnny-jump-ups and spring beauties and little bluets. The Osage writ...In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex by Nathaniel Philbrick is a gripping account of the sinking of the whale ship Essex in 1819 after being attacked by a sperm whale. The book details the crew's harrowing journey of survival in small boats as they try to make their way back to civilization, facing starvation, cannibalism, and unimaginable hardships. Philbrick's writing style is described as a compelling page-turner, blending historical detail with memorable characters and thrilling adventure, reminiscent of a novel.
The book delves into the tragic tale of the Essex, which inspired Herman Melville's Moby Dick, providing a rich history of Nantucket's whaling industry and the psychology of leadership in extreme situations. Philbrick's extensive research is evident throughout the narrative, offering a deeper understanding of the crew's ordeal, the effects of starvation, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of hopeless odds. The story not only focuses on the disaster at sea but also explores themes of survival, humanity, and the sacrifices made in desperate circumstances.
IT WAS, HE LATER REMEMBERED, “the most pleasing moment of my life”—the moment he stepped aboard the whaleship Essex for the first time. He was fourteen years old, with a broad nose and an open, eager ...- #8
Save:Endurance is a gripping account of Shackleton's Imperial Trans Antarctic Expedition, focusing on the loss of the Endurance, the harrowing journey to Elephant Island, the epic boat voyage to South Georgia, and the ultimate rescue of the stranded men. The book is praised for its detailed and honest narrative, providing a record of survival under extreme conditions with a focus on the leadership and kinship among the men. Worsley's writing style is commended for being straightforward and not sensationalist, offering a classic and understated account of the expedition.
SIR Ernest Shackleton, Frank Wild, his Second in Command, and I were sitting in Shackleton’s cabin in the Endurance. The date was July 13th, 1915. The ship was fast set in the ice of the Antarctic, an... In "Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before," author Tony Horwitz embarks on a journey to retrace the voyages of Captain Cook, blending history with travelogue. Horwitz brings readers along on his exploration of the Pacific region, sharing the adventures and controversies surrounding Cook's legacy. The book weaves together tales of Cook's epic journeys and Horwitz's own experiences, providing insight into the impact of colonization and the consequences of exploration.
When I was thirteen, my parents bought a used sailboat, a ten-foot wooden dory that I christened Wet Dream. For several summers, I tacked around the waters off Cape Cod, imagining myself one of the wh...- #10
Save:'The Custom Of The Sea' by Neil Hanson is a gripping account of the ill-fated voyage of the 'Mignonette' and the subsequent trial of the sailors involved in cannibalism for survival. The book delves into the horrifying events that transpired at sea, the flawed judicial system in England during the 19th century, and the moral dilemmas faced by the men involved. The narrative weaves together historical descriptions, legal complexities, and personal accounts to paint a vivid picture of the custom of the sea and its repercussions.
The author, Neil Hanson, skillfully combines meticulous research with storytelling to present a compelling and tragic story of human survival, sacrifice, and the consequences of desperate actions. Through detailed accounts of the events leading up to and following the infamous case of R v Dudley and Stephens, Hanson sheds light on the complexities of the custom of the sea, the legal implications of cannibalism, and the moral ambiguity surrounding the sailors' actions. The book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition in extreme circumstances and the impact of societal norms on individual decisions.
