Fastnet, Force 10
John Rousmaniere
Most of us may never take part in a deep-sea yacht race, but all of us
sailors and would be sailors can learn from this book about the perils
of the sea and the potential hazards of the sport we love. The Fastnet
race runs from Cowes on the south coast of England around Fastnet Rock
off the south coast of Ireland and back to Plymouth.
In August of 1979
the race began in fair weather but was overtaken by a fierce, Force 10
gale when many of the boats were in the Irish Sea and far from land.
Even big yachts were rolled right over by mountainous seas, lives were lost,
and many sailors were rescued by lifeboat and helicopter. The author
describes how the storm developed and considers why some boats got into
trouble while others were able to avoid it.
This gripping tale is
suitable for older children and adults.
Reviewed by James Wessel Walker, May, 2001
This article is ©2001 by James Wessel Walker, and posted on All Things
Ransome with permission.
Back to the Index for Ransome Readers Recommend
Back to All Things Ransome