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30 pages 1 hour read

Sebastian Junger

The Perfect Storm

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1997

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In The Perfect Storm by Sebastian Junger, the swordfishing boat Andrea Gail departs Gloucester, Massachusetts, in late September 1991 with six men aboard, only to encounter a catastrophic storm in late October. As captain Billy Tyne communicates the storm's ferocity, the Andrea Gail vanishes, leading Junger to investigate the incident through interviews and historical context, culminating in an exploration of the dangers faced by fishermen and the gripping power of nature. The book includes sensitive topics related to death and loss at sea.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Perfect Storm by Sebastian Junger masterfully blends journalism and storytelling, vividly depicting the perilous life at sea. Praised for its intense narrative and detailed research, the book immerses readers in the harrowing true story. Some critics note a dense writing style and excessive technical jargon, but overall, it is a compelling and informative read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Perfect Storm?

Readers who enjoy thrilling, fact-based narratives with a focus on survival against natural forces will be captivated by Junger's The Perfect Storm. Fans of Krakauer's Into Thin Air or Philbrick’s In the Heart of the Sea will appreciate the intense, meticulously researched storytelling and depiction of human endurance.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

1140L