Leigh reviewed on 3/25/2014 + 378 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 4

This engaging and thoroughly interesting book lends insight into the whaling industry of the early 19th century. More importantly, it delves into the startling details of the sinking of the "Essex" during a whale-hunting trip.

I could not believe how much nautical vocabulary I ascertained from the asides cleverly woven into the story. (A tribute to Melville, perhaps?) I learned how a sperm whale got its name; I learned what "fishy" means when referring to a sailor; I learned the origin of the measurement "knots."

This is, indeed, the tragedy that inspired Herman Melville's "Moby Dick" and one can easily identify the characters in the crew of the "Essex." It frightens me to what lengths humans will go to ensure personal survival. If you're into nautical lore and legend, read this. It deserved the National Book Award.

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