The Wooden Mile seemed a little too simplistic and easy to me. There are creative elements and fun characters (and the illustrations) but things just seem to move a little too quickly and come together a little too easily.
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Even if you don’t agree with his perspective I think you will find Hunter a fair and clear guide to many of these issues and debates. Rather than amp up the outrage, he tries to bring a calm, prudent style and tone. Even amongst the controversy and strongly held opinions he seeks out common ground and a consistent sense of civility.
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I try to stay away from books that feature the sort of ugliness Rooms contains but I have to admit there is something essentially human about the ugliness and sadness at the heart of the story. A desperate need to be loved, to find peace, to be comfortable in your skin and as part of a family.
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An excellent description and analysis of David Porter’s cruise in southern Pacific Ocean. Daughan balances describing Porter’s excellent leadership of the Essex and Porter’s borderline stupid decision to claim Nuku Hiva for the United States.
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I think Publisher’s Weekly sums it up well: “Insubstantial though it may be, however, the tale is gracefully told, and sympathetic readers will find it an appealing tribute to the original.”
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While it was a quick, quirky and largely enjoyable read, it was also odd and ephemeral. Perhaps if you were more plugged into classical and international literature, or more obsessed with formal book collecting, the references and name dropping would mean more or deepen the story.
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