rosalind_barden 's review for:

Island of the Lost: Shipwrecked at the Edge of the World by Joan Druett

5.0

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“Island of the Lost” by Joan Druett is an incredible story of leadership and survival that is all the more amazing because it is a true story. In the mid-1800s, two ships become wrecked on opposite sides of remote and forbidding Auckland Island. In the face of this disaster, the captain of one ship opts for an egalitarian approach and teamwork. The other rigidly follows aristocratic rules of rank and isn’t particularly thankful to the most resourceful member of his crew, a common sailor, despite his life-saving efforts. Neither group learns of the other while they are on the island. Both suffer the howling winds, bitter cold, and lack of food. Yet, one crew fairs so much better than the other. Ms. Druett has done an exceptional job in researching and telling this often brutal story in a compelling way. Audiobook narration by David Colacci is excellent. This book will be of interest to students of management styles, group dynamics, leadership, and teamwork, as well as readers who enjoy gripping, true-life adventures.