More Reviews from Amazon.com and other Sources
Storms for me - Boatmanship for you?
Storms, mystery on the open sea, adventure in new ports - these are the things that intrigue me. Umstot's book satisfied my passion for all of the above, AND had me laughing at onboard antics on the high seas. For true boatmanship, I give the captain an A+ for keeping his cool and his tools at hand when extra parts need to be fabricated hundreds of miles from shore. Learn from this captain! This book is for true adventurers who actually plan to travel by sea to any destination, or for those who just love to read about it all in their cushy chairs on land. What did I learn from this duo in order to make such a journey? To use common sense--find humor aboard-- extend a welcoming attitude to other boaters--and have a cheerful willingness to step off the boat into new worlds. Judy Buskirk, Librarian Wonderful by Land, Terrific by Sea Mary Umstot's Voyaging to the Mediterranean Under Power invites the reader to embark on a sea quest that invigorates the senses. Umstot expertly captures the beauty and majesty of nature as she describes charming vignettes involving magnificent sunsets and playful dolphins. However, this voyage is not just placid pleasure cruise. Just as masterfully, she unleashes the power and fury of nature in the storms she and her husband encounter and weather together. The adventure continues as she gives vivid accounts of encounters in port. Her tale of adventure, beauty, danger and friendship will inspire seasoned sea dogs and land lubbers alike. An excellent choice for those who enjoy travel or those who want the thrill of a sea voyage without leaving port. Charity Smalls |
Adventures, Predicaments, Culture, and Magical Moments on Sea and Land
From one voyager and author to another: Mary, I thoroughly enjoyed your book. Even though we circumnavigated in a 43-foot catamaran, and you crossed the Atlantic to and back from the Med on a 52-foot power trawler, we share many common experiences: observing the changing, powerful nature of the sea; the trials, tribulations, and loneliness during a passage; and the varieties of cultures and people we met along the way. My favorite chapter in your book is "The Mysterious Black Sea--Where Few Cruisers Go!" We didn't go there! To the reader: Whether you're a cruiser or an arm-chair sailor, you will laugh and cry about this couple's predicaments, misadventures, humor, and magical moments. And if you love history, geography or just want to read a great sea tale--buy Mary Umstot's book! Joy Hofman, author of In Search of Adventure and Moments of Bliss: Maiden Voyage Clearly written and fun! This book will transport you to exotic places with an engaging guide in Mary Umstot. Thankfully without jargon, hyperbole or overdramatic flourishes, she lets the story -- occasionally hilarious, frequently frightening -- carry the day. A fun and involving read as you watch the author's skill and confidence level grow to match the challenges she, her husband, and a revolving crew face on a daily basis. Nice descriptions of the loneliness at sea and the varying peoples around the Mediterranean. Mark Kelley Great book and a great lady! My girlfriend and I met Mary at a TrawlerFest in Anacortes, WA this last month. What a riot!? She's hilarious and she's just a genuine fun loving lady. She gave us a lot of great advice on basically just getting out there and going for it. She signed a copy of her book for us and we both have been reading and and we can't put it down. Excellent read!! C. Jones See Jeff Merrill's review |