In the Heart of the Sea

"The unbelievable story of the whale ship, the Essex. This is the story that Moby Dick was based on. This book is really well written as it provides just enough background and history but also mixes in survival and adventure. Whaling as a business was brutal, in almost every way imaginable. And as this story tells, even the whales fought back! It’s certainly a different time in history (early 1800’s) so there are issues with inclusion and race back then that do play out in the survival. "

"A succinct history of the many eccentricities that came to define the “Nation of Nantucket” during the 19th century intertwined with a riveting story of its inhabitants as they battle the best and worst of their own human nature while shipwrecked at sea for 93 days. Courage, brotherhood, cannibalism, and a few strokes of luck are ultimately what determine the fate of the young men on their journey home.<br/><br/>Away from the epic tale of a Whaler’s worst nightmare, I found Philbrick's discussion around Quakerism and its many contradictions among the people of Nantucket particularly interesting. The religion preaches pacifism and yet the most coveted accomplishment in the entire community was the killing of a whale, an undeniably grotesque and savage practice. Men and women alike are expected to spurn any ostentatious display of wealth and yet the business owners of the small island became some of the richest men & women in the entire country. Nantucket also had a well renowned commitment to equality as pro-abolitionist and yet this is ultimately called into question by the suspect ordering of deaths at sea. I suppose you can choose your religion but not your fate."

"Sad survival story"

"long, slow read BUT very well written. love the perspective it was told: as an outsider relaying all the information related to the story. "

" Tragic true story behind the tale of Moby Dick. This story was well written, a bit slow going at times but highly educational and kept me at the edge of my seat! I was immersed in the storytelling and real accounts of what happened. The things these men had suffered through were horrific and the story alone about whale killing was just awful. I truly enjoyed this book, a true masterpiece and great recount of a historical event. This book will stay with me for a long time. Ps, making it my bucket list to visit Nantucket one day 🐋 "

"An unforgettable read of a well-researched historical event. "

"Amazing story. The author compiled information from several different resources, including first hand journals from the sailors that were there. It's pretty mind blowing, some of the things these guys went through."

"The story behind Moby **** "

"A very interesting tale to say the least."

"Slow start to a fantastic book! Ended up being completley sucked in! "