Ferdinand Magellan's daring circumnavigation of the globe in the sixteenth century was a three-year odyssey filled with sex; violence; and amazing adventure. Now in Over the Edge of the World; prize-winning biographer and journalist Laurence Bergreen entwines a variety of candid; firsthand accounts; bringing to life this groundbreaking and majestic tale of discovery that changed both the way explorers would henceforth navigate the oceans and history itself.
#29893 in Books Laurence Bergreen 2004-11-02 2004-11-02Format: Deckle EdgeOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.00 x .82 x 5.31l; .92 #File Name: 006093638X458 pagesPaperback with ocean and sailing vessel scene. 458 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. True adventures are indeed more compelling than fictional onesBy Condado BeachA pioneering 60k mile ocean journey chock full of the highs and lows of life itself. Brought to us by meticulous 16th century record-keeping; and a talented 21st century writer. A page turner --whether you're a connoisseur of history; science and anthropology; or you're just a casual reader of quests for riches and glory; violent mutinies; tropical sexcapades; European/Islander encounters; maritime superpower clashes; and all-around high seas adventures.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. I love reading about historyBy Mimi KayI love reading about history! This book delivers so much information about Magellan's voyage and the surrounding political machinations and difficulties. There was so much additional information that I now want to visit Patagonia and go through Magellan Strait.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Fantastic!By ExpressruneThis is a book to be savored and then re-read. Imagine a real life story that involves not only the world's very first circumnavigation of the globe; but also of politics (not too different from ours today); personalities; ego's; high adventure; suffering; murder; stubborn determination; torture; deceit; mutiny; lying; redemption and discovery. Clearly the author worked hard on deep and detailed research; for the reader is left with no questions. Histories regarding the players; political backgrounds; and all other details involved in this environment are broadly discussed and one can only be left breathless by the sheer tenacity and instinctual knowledge that Magellan was endowed with. Ultimately; his ego failed him and the reader is carried to the conclusion of this incredible saga. Once again; we remind ourselves of the awful role Europeans have played in the interaction with indigenous peoples. This book is also a grand plus in that it also includes an interview with the author about the subject; as well as a timeline for Magellan's fantastic voyage. The Notes on Sources is also fascinating reading. Even if one doesn't care too much for history; this book is a must to read.
