Ellen C. (marathonmom) reviewed on 5/10/2010 + 25 more book reviews

This book is John Steinbeck's report of a collecting trip in the Gulf of California taken with marine biologist Ed Ricketts in the 1940s. Part scientific report, part human psychological analysis, the narrative examines the daily life of a working science expedition, as well as the human triumphs and failings of the crew of the Western Flyer. Although the science can get a little dry (how many times did the crew find sea cucumbers and brittle stars?), tales of how a flock of Sally Lightfoot crabs evaded capture and how an outboard motor became almost human reflect Steinbeck's keen eye for detail and an intimate knowledge of a boat, her crew, and a mission. Included in this book is an essay "About Ed Ricketts", reflecting on and describing the life of the marine biologist who was the model for several of Steinbeck's characters. Immortalized as Doc in Cannery Row and eulogized in this final essay, Ed can't help but become part of every person who reads this book.

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