I’m doing some holiday shopping and have read a lot of maritime-related books. Here are a few I highly recommend, plus my tips for book shopping.
The Curve of Time by M. Wylie Blanchet
A frequent recommendation of mine, I love both the subject matter and Blanchet’s writing style. This book even inspired my boat’s name Capi.
The Voyage of the Rose City: An Adventure at Sea, by John Moynihan
One of the first books I discovered through the Seattle Public Library. Also a memoir, but from a young man who drops out of college and signs on as a deckhand on a cargo ship in 1980.
Cinnamon and Gunpowder by Eli Brown
A recommendation from fellow bookish boaters I’m happy to pass along! This novel spices up the predictable pirate adventure. Simply put: a very fun read, especially for food lovers.
Sourcing the books:
- If you are looking to read one of these yourself, I highly recommend checking the Seattle Public Library first. I almost exclusively use my Kindle for e-books from SPL.
- I pick up new copies, especially for gifts, from local bookstores. Secret Garden Books and Elliot Bay Books are two favorites. Going in person is a treat but I’ve also ordered online from both. Many local bookshops bolstered their e-commerce options due to the pandemic.
- For used books, I usually start with Powell’s. In Seattle, I’ve also stopped by Twice Sold Tales and Third Place Books.
Cover images from the Seattle Public Library catalog.
Cara Kuhlman 