Two Years Before the Mast

My brother Ryan is an excellent writer. He often gives books as gifts. I came across this article in the WSJ: A True Adventure at Sea and on Shore by Angus Phillips and was reminded of one of the great gifts he has given me over the years.

Two Years Before the Mast by Richard Henry Dana, Jr. is an amazing true story. Dana was part of the well-heeled Bostonian political class. He was in this third year at Harvard when he contracted the measles. Recovery was slow and his eye sight poor, so he decided to go to sea as a sailor. This class jumping was unusual. He and his family could have easily afforded a passenger trip; however, he determined it would do him more good to work. He left on the brig, Pilgrim, in 1834 and returned in 1836. Crossing the Horn twice and traveling round to California before the Gold Rush and before it was part of the United States. It is a fascinating tale of men, new worlds and character. I will agree with Philips, it is not an easy read, but it will grip you.

Low, low price of $0.00 on the Kindle. Happy reading.