Sea of Glory (Abridged): America's Voyage of Discovery, the U.S. Exploring Expedition, 1838-1842 Audiobook

" This was a decent book on history, well written and for the most part, moved well and stayed interesting. There were a few sections that were dry, but you can expect that in history. If someone did a little research this story could be turned into a decent fictional book as well. "

" An epic record of early American exploration. Bigger than Lewis & Clark... add Cook and Shackelton's adventures and you come close. "

" Bummer! Except for a few books exchanged among English-speaking friends here in China, all the books I read are audios I downloaded from a local library when I was visiting in the States in February. Somehow I didn't download the last CD to this book so I've been left hanging and can't finish it. But these 19th century U.S. explorations were fascinating; something I knew little about but yet comparable to putting the first man on the moon as far as discoveries go. In spite of a major personality glitch on the part of the expedition leader, the expedition was a major contributor to map-building and scientific discoveries. "

" A great story in our history that nobody knows anything about "

" If you want to see the breakdown of a decent human being into a maniacal bastard told in the most compelling fashion, this is the book for you. I knew nothing about this expedition before reading Philbrick's book. Now, I find myself wondering how this wasn't taught to me in school. It is probably one of the most significant US expeditions in our history outside of the moon landing. Bravo, Mr. Philbrick. "

" This book was fantastic! It was an informative - and enjoyable - read about a facinating piece of american history. "

" history can be fun. unbelievable what people went through to explore things "

" an american adventure, and great for anyone into voytages and seafaring. USA, USA!:) "

" Complained a lot "

" Quite an informative book about a subject I was, like most, totally unfamiliar with. "

" First US sponsored scientific exploration which is a great read due to the "Captain" being a megalomaniac as he attempts to manage 6 ships over 4 years as they sail to Antarticia, the Pacific Islands and the Columbia River Gorge. "

" This dude makes old stuff read like new. "

" This was an interesting story about something that has become little more than a footnote in history. Philbrick reminds me a little of Jon Krakeaur because he writes nonfiction and makes it incredably readable. "

" Well told, but it was a bit of a letdown after "Heart of the Sea". "

" Story of the pacific ocean exploration by US in the 1800s. Captain Wilkes was egomaniac with control issues that led to widespread discontent during the four year journey. Great accomplishments during a time of worldwide exploration of the seas. "

" I struggled with this one. I was not at all engaged with the characters and I didn't really care what happened to the expedition. I can't pinpoint if it was the author's voice that I couldn't connect to, or if the true story and real-life people were just boring. Probably some of both. "

" Well researched and written story of the first American sea expedtion from the mid-1800s. A good narrative and description of the personalities involved - nice summer read. "

" A meticulously researched piece, 'Sea of Glory' carries you through the remarkable journey of the US Exploring Expedition. Philbrick tugs at your emotions, one moment loathing the hardlined captain only to emphasize with him later. "

" Awesome read. I really enjoy this author "

" This book is taking me a while to read because the story isn't quite as gripping as In the Heart of the Sea but it is a very interesting story both from a historical standpoint and because of the personal stories going on with the captain and crew. "

" not a fan, couldn't get into it, had to quit "

" A very interesting historical read that went well with my steady diet of Patrick O'Brian and the the Aubrey - Maturin series.The real story was the foundation of Moby Dick. "

" Fascinating historical account of whaling "

" Fantastic! Cannibalism, whaling, shipwrecks! "

" Enjoyable read, it's amazing how the crew survived in open boats in the middle of the ocean. I guess the cannibalism had something to do with it though...yum! "

" Tremendous spirit of two officers who lead boats. Amazing what men can indure. Unreal what happens to the body during extreme deprivation. The whale intelligence is another whole dimension. "

" Didn't think I would like it, but it was surprisingly interesting. Nothing like a good (true) tale of survival cannibalism! "

" A great read! Great lesson in the history of whaling. "

" There were times when it dragged, though it was necessary to explain the whaling process. "

" I thought this book was very exciting. In addition to the stranded/shipwreck aspect, it gave a good idea of what it was like to work on a whaling vessel in the early 1800s and a good picture of life on Nantucket at that time. "

" Great historic perspective into the whaling industry, old Natucket culture and a horrifying true tale of survival at sea. "

" good, but hard to recommend. try to read quickly through the parts about cannibalism. "