The test of a good non-fiction novel is that a relatively boring subject becomes fascinating in the hands of the author. I picked this one up, and read it cover to cover without putting it down. A brilliant accounting of the hazardous way of life that the swordfish industry leads. Combined with the deftly told story of a cataclysmic storm, and how it affected this industry and a whole town. Very factual and detailed oriented. A bit thick at times. But a great read.
When I saw the movie "The Perfect Storm" I was knocked out by it. I've since watched it numerous times, never tire of it - and each time wished the ending would be different! It's one of my top 5 favorite movies, so I thought it was time to read the book to see how accurate the movie was and how the information was obtained (since the Andrea Gail was never found). The book was drier than the movie - not as much focus on the individual personalities of the crew - but it was full of real-life experiences of other crew members who went through similar conditions - one of whom revived after drowning. It paints an amazing picture of how these boats work, how the weather affects them, everything that a captain needs to know and the incredibly tough job it is. The sea is brutal, an no one knows better than fishermen. There is also more focus on the Satori, the second vessel in the movie, which is presented more accurately (and still has some controversy attached to it.) My mind got a little bogged down by all the technical information, but it all blended together to give me a much better understanding of the dangers of the business and the nature of the men and women who choose this way of life.Read full review
A great book
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
The book is about a ship called the Andrea Gail that left for a fishing trip in 1991 to the Flemish Cap. It was lost in the perfect storm. It is sad, because of the things these men would do to provide their town with fish. It takes a lot of courage to do so. They were very brave men and went into a big storm. The book is a must read.
There is a movie of this book very interesting story plot although not as compelling as authors other books.
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