Audrey A. (AudreyA) reviewed on 1/26/2006 + 84 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 3

This book is terrible. It is not scientific in any way. A scientific study is falsificationist, whereas this book is completely verificationist. Menzies starts out with the idea that he is correct and only presents tidbits that might corroborate his version of events. I have read every book on maritime history and exploration that I can get my hands on, and this was one of the most disappointing ever. For a more accurate and less biased version of the history of the Chinese treasure fleet, read Louise Levathes book When China Ruled the Seas. It is not written in a flowery style, but it is trustworthy and well-researched.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details