Cultured Travel Guide Books - By the Grace of the Sea : A Woman's Solo Odyssey Around the World |
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List Price: $14.95
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Binding: Paperback
Dewey Decimal Number: 910.41
EAN: 9780071435420
ISBN: 0071435425
Label: International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press
Manufacturer: International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press
Number Of Items: 1
Number Of Pages: 384
Publication Date: 2004-04-12
Publisher: International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press
Studio: International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press |
| Spotlight Customer Reviews: |
Customer Rating: 
Summary: Grace of the Sea
Comment: Order was processed and delivered, in the condition described, beyond my expectations and am satisfied.
Customer Rating: 
Summary: A Woman Spins a Sailing Yarn
Comment: Henry's well written tale of her solo circumnavigation is an interesting and entertaining read, but as others have noted, she seems to have a knack for whining and complaining. I picked up this book because I wanted to get a woman's perspective on the cruising life. I did, but had to keep reminding myself that it was just one woman's perspective. I'd like to think others had a more balanced view. On the other hand, it's also possible that other accounts are really just sugar-coating their experiences. I have to give the author a lot of credit for not pulling any punches in her tale. If you want a tale that's a little less self-centered account of a woman's solo circumnavigation under sail, have a look at Tania Aebi's "Maiden Voyage." If you want to hear a formidable woman tell you what she really thinks, pick up a copy of "By the Grace of the Sea."
- Joe
Customer Rating:
Summary: Definitely mixed feelings about the book
Comment: I share both sides of the reviewers here. On the one hand, Pat Henry had great courage to undertake a solo trip around the world in a fairly modest boat. The multitude of things that went wrong -- Murphy's Law in action -- were indeed quite a trial for Pat. That alone makes for fascinatingly horrible reading. I've done a lot of sailing in the past, I've read several books on "blue water" cruising (including "Passage to Juneau"), and I would say this book is unique. The basic premise is admirable, Pat did manage her world sail tour, but she *is* the most whiny, self-absorbed, self-pitying, hapless person that you'll read about in the world of sailing. Geez, that was the first thing that struck me upon finishing the book! I don't think Pat was really prepared for such a voyage -- not financially, emotionally, nor psychologically. Reading this book is almost a "how-not-to" instruction manual, and it's also like coming upon the scene of a terrible auto wreck -- you can't look away and you can't leave until you learn the outcome.
Customer Rating:
Summary: She's no Tristan Jones
Comment: So... essentially, Pat Henry took off on the run from the IRS, abandoning her responsibilities, funded by the charity of others, without ever practicing, say, anchoring her boat until she hit the South Pacific, complains that she had no money yet didn't get a job, was unable to maintain a relationship, and wants us all to celebrate her journey of self-discovery. I would not apply the word "courage" to this endeavor. Gall, maybe.
There are much better books on sea journeys. There are much better books on raising sea monkeys, come to think of it.
For good reading on cruising frugally, try Hal & Margaret Roth. The book "How to Sail Around the World" is excellent, and the authors, in addition to being skilled sailors, are conscientious, inspiring, and entertaining to read.
Customer Rating:
Summary: Read Between The Lines
Comment: This book is one big rationalization from page one to the end.
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| Editorial Reviews: |
"Henry's captivating account fills readers with admiration for her courage and stamina." --Booklist "A wonderful voyage of self-discovery." --Indianapolis Star "A powerful and compelling personal account of [Henry's] battle with the elements--plus inner and outer demons--while struggling to complete her solo journey around the world. What a book and what a woman!" --Willard Manus, author, This Way to Paradise
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