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lesliebeach's review against another edition
This is my father's favorite book of all time, and finally, after many years of resistance (mostly on the basis of its being nonfiction, which I struggle to read), I've finished it. It is truly a fine yarn, the recollections and observations of a Harvard student in eighteen thirty something who goes to sea to heal his strained eyes, sails around the horn, explores nascent California (still a part of Mexico, pre-Gold Rush) and works in a way a young academic had never worked before. His insight into the social atmosphere at sea and ashore is clear, if rooted in his time, and the history of my state and its perception in the eyes of the world kept me engaged throughout. Excellent armchair adventure.
nadoislandgirl's review against another edition
3.0
I believe this is one of the first books to be written about California. It is the history of a college man who left home for his health and sailed to California as a sailor. He spent most of his time traveling up and down the coast of California and loading and processing hides for transit.
I appreciated the glimpse into early California history.
The book was a bit dry at times.
Read via DailyLit.com daily emails.
I appreciated the glimpse into early California history.
The book was a bit dry at times.
Read via DailyLit.com daily emails.
meekorouse's review against another edition
3.0
Great read when you have time to spare.. This was my 2nd attempt (1st was in the 90s while working the info desk at my bookstore gig..) You need to pay attention because there's so much going on, and not at all.. It's worth it for a sailing adventure, it's definitely worth it for the glimpse into California history. If I had the space on my shelf, I'd say it's a keeper.. but alas it's a library book.. already turned back in so the next adventurer can give it a go! =)
irene_addler's review against another edition
I might return to this, but it's quite slow and long. Very informative, however.
ivan_tw's review against another edition
3.0
An interesting sailor's narrative, made great because of Dana's constant sarcastic attitude. A big influence of Melville, so how could it be bad? Great to see a snapshot of California 180 years ago.
justasking27's review against another edition
4.0
Exciting description of a life at sea and California before it was a state. I enjoyed this a lot, despite having to do a lot of googling for specific terms; my lack of knowledge didn't detract at all from my enjoyment of the descriptions and character sketches.