Friday, October 11, 2013

Book Review Friday: Why Read Moby Dick?


 

In Why Read Moby-Dick?, celebrated author Nathaniel Philbrick shares his thoughts on why we should read Moby Dick.  In a rich and compelling narrative, Philbrick provides insights and analysis on why Herman Melville's Moby-Dick is still a classic worth reading.  He confesses that he has read the book many times, studies the life of the author, and followed many of the same research paths.  Philbrick deftly puts forth the argument that despite it's age and length, Moby-Dick has much to offer to modern readers.
He urges readers to at least read a  passage or two and then offers a wealth of quotations and explanations that help make Melville's story of the white whale come to life.  This is a great little book and a quick, fascinating read.  Philbrick's knowledge of and passion for the novel are evident on every page.  If you remain unconvinced and choose not to delve into Moby-Dick you will still gain a wealth of knowledge about Melville's classic from Why Read Moby-Dick?  If, on the other hand, you choose to take the plunge,you won't regret taking Philbrick as your guide.  Anyone for Moby-Dick?


Other books by Nathaniel Philbrick:

In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex

Sea of Glory: America's voyage of Discovery, The U.S. Exploring Expedition, 1838-1842
Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War
The Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of Little Bighorn
Bunker Hill: A City, a Siege, a Revolution

Children's Books by Nathaniel Philbrick:

Revenge of the Whale: The True Story of the Whaleship Essex 
The Mayflower and the Pilgrim's New World


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